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Cultivation of Creativity

Cultivation of Creativity

Creativity is a seed with power that can change, and even rock the world.

As society continues to develop, technology infiltrates and changes our lives. Creativity and human-centric mindset become increasingly essential. If we could plant a creative seed in our children and cultivate their creativity from a young age, it will have an important and positive impact on the growth and social development in the future.

With this belief, PMQ Seed — a creative summer programme for children, starting from 2018, has collaborated with various local creative parties and education organisations. When organising a series of education programmes, workshops and exhibitions, we took design thinking at an early age as the foundation and a crossdisciplinary learning as the key feature. Together with a playful approach as the teaching guideline, we enriched their childhood with creative designs.

With years of effort, we have brought laughter to the community and also the human spirit piloted by a team of coordinating units and over 30 designers that help to bring a way of thinking on the past and the future through the eyes of the children.

How can we enhance the creativity of the entire society? The best way is to plant creative seeds in kids at an early stage to make design thinking become the nutrient for elevating a creative energy in society. Since 2018, the PMQ Seed team has been working hard to integrate design thinking into kids’ education. Bringing together the educational stakeholders and a group of passionate peers, we have organized an annual programme with themes suitable for kids’ development to bring a series of creative and playful experiences for the kids.

A Journey of Learn Each Other

During the growth journey, the first year of the PMQ Seed Programme started from scratch to cultivate the creative foundation based on an experimental spirit. The kids who attended the summer camps mastered a basic concept of design thinking and activated their innate creativity in games. With the experience and observation in the first year, the programme in the following year was based on IDEO’s book Creative and Self- Confidence to encourage kids to think and have the courage to express themselves. During the practices and trials in teamwork, they could achieve creative autonomy. “We emphasised the mentorship in which kids could express themselves during the daily briefings. It’s not one-way teaching but an approach to escape from the usual classes in school,” said Iris Chow, the Director of Branding & Development at PMQ.

On this basis, the third year of PMQ Seed set with the theme of “empathy” to highlight the spirit of people-oriented design. With different role-playing activities to let students experience the importance of “put yourself in other people’s shoes” and also lead the students to understand more about themselves. The spirit of empathy also infused into the PMQ Seed team and designers. This year, we added the BEING BEINGS Train the Trainer Workshop and invited the Hong Kong Design Institute to teach design thinking to school teachers in a 3-week programme. We also arranged clinical psychology therapists to explain children’s psychology and empathy, and a programmer to lead an online teaching course to support the design and education team’s skills on children education. The curriculum was more in-depth to fit the educational needs for kids.

The sooner the better. It is crucial to cultivate creative seeds at an early stage. PMQ Seed has teamed up with Little Green Feet to hold a brand-new BEING BEINGS Mini-camp designed for kids aged five to eight and their parents. Taking picture books as the medium, the camp encouraged kids to learn more about ‘empathy’. The onward campaign in 2021 would also continue to deepen the theme of empathy to extend their thinking to the concerns of the Earth and nature.

Multi-disciplinary of Empathy

Iris described that it was a valuable experience to bring together a group of enthusiastic peers and teams under the PMQ Seed Programme. It was a chance for us to help the kids foster empathy and understand their thoughts and emotions. It was also important that the kids were willing to learn and improve, as well as to solve problems and adjust their mindset when facing endless challenges.

“We’ve been learning every day during these years. People often think that we teach the kids, but in fact, we are learning from them. Education cannot be quantified and the kids are born with imaginations and creativity. Our role is to accompany them to find a suitable path for them.”

It is hard to find a partner along the journey. In a series of crossdisciplinary co-creation, kids, the schools, teachers, parents and the creative design team have grown up along the path. “Service and communication are the aims of design. Some designers learned how to communicate with the public in a language that even kids could understand and also put this thinking in future design. Some schools even continue to invite the participating designers to organise workshops after our programme.”

“Many people think that creativity is only something that we learn in visual arts classes. In fact, creativity can be applied in any course or even interdisciplinary applications. Apart from kids, PMQ Seed also hopes to further deepen its impact by nurturing designers, teachers and parents to pass on their knowledge to the kids.”

* This programme is sponsored by Create Hong Kong of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

Wonder, Open-minded & Create

2018

WOW Summer

Taking the themes of “Wonder”, “Open-minded” and “Create”, the WOW Summer Camp for primary and secondary students stimulated their innate creativity through games. Their final creative works were displayed in the exhibition as well.

“On the journey of growth, kids need companion to find confidence and fun in exploring the future and the unknown.”

— kevin siu／Co-founder of AaaM Architects & assistant profession of a tertiary institute

Cultivate Creativity & Confidence

2019

YES KIDS CAN

Themed “Creativity Confidence” with STEM elements, this programme invited designers, artist, programming and multimedia engineers, makers and musicians as the tutors and launched the new “School Outreach” for students to complete the creative mission in the community.

“These thoughts could be Imaginative, but it’s important on how to guide them to implement their thoughts. ”

— kathier choi hing ling／Former Vice Principal of Tin Shui Wai Methodist Primary School

“Design and architecture are not only about money and profits. I hope that children would design because they’re empathetic to help other people.”

— bong yeung／Design Principal of Littleurbanmountain

Learn about Empathy

2020

BEING BEINGS

A series programmes based on the theme of “empathy” included the online BEING BEINGS Creative Camp, BEING BEINGS Minicamp for kids, the multi-disciplinary Train the Trainer Workshop as well as the creative and lively picture book exhibition.
BEING With You Picture Book Exhibition presented our life in eight different stages. With over 150 picture books, the audiences learn how to understand themselves and think about the people around. This exhibition touched the audiences’ hearts.

The Path Of Growth

The Path of Growth

Design is a journey for us to gain different experiences and it grows amidst failures and successes. Cultivating young entrepreneurs is one of the core concepts of PMQ. It has gathered the enthusiastic young designers and entrepreneurs to fulfill their dreams and strive for the best.

CHAILIE HO
Founder

Chailie Ho and Jade in Style
S409

“You must persist in pursuing your dreams. To be honest, my start-up path was not a smooth one. If I hadn’t settled in PMQ in the first place, I wouldn’t be able to continue. I was glad that PMQ provided me with a stable retail outlet. After settling down in a suitable place, the development of my brand gradually improved. The most incredible part of being in PMQ is that it enables me to understand how the industry works in a stable environment, and provides me with a space to think about ‘what I really want to do’. My brand has been through a lot of changes over the years. I first made clothes and accessories and exhibited in trade shows, then I held exhibitions and launched a second line of jade fashion jewellery. All the designs represent my belief of fashion being an aesthetic pursuit. If you adapt to the tastes of others for making money, the outcome is not fashion but just clothes. I have a deep sentiment on PMQ because it’s a place that keeps spurring me to grow up.”

ARIES SIN
Founder

MODEMENT
H301

“To pursue dreams, you must be prepared for the ups and downs. I opened my shop in PMQ in 2017 and it was a major milestone for my brand. We always want to launch sustainable, gender-neutral fashions through quality craftsmanship and creating clothes that talk. We’re different from general retail stores which focus on sales only. My shop in PMQ is a combination of retail shop, showroom, and studio. It’s a place for everyone to know about my brand concept and for enriching the brand experiences. PMQ is not simply a retail outlet, it allows me to present my artistic ideas in different ways. Besides changing the display themes of my shop from time to time, my participation in various PMQ’s activities such as SHIBUKARU MATSURI by PARCO, Re-edit exhibition, and deTour also allowed me to make different attempts in art creation. Among them, SHIBUKARU MATSURI was particularly impressive. Its theme of supporting female designers corresponded with my concept of pursuing freedom and gender equality. These opportunities could only happen in PMQ. I also particularly appreciate PMQ for being willing to communicate openly with tenants and giving us a helping hand in difficult times.”

FELIX
Founder

POMCH
S204

“The concept behind POMCH is to introduce the production process in a retail environment so that customers can understand and participate in the production process behind-the-scenes. This is also the reason why we are here at PMQ. In Hong Kong, PMQ is the only place to have this kind of business model which combines workshop and retail. Our brand grows together with PMQ indeed. The mentorship at the very beginning and regular business reviews all gave us plenty of suggestions for brand development. PMQ also took us to overseas exhibitions and we gained a lot of media exposure too with its support on public communication. Many organizations have invited us for collaborations after knowing us at PMQ. We have tried to open shops in other places, but our relationship with PMQ is the longest. This is possibly because PMQ’s positioning and customer base fit us best. I would describe PMQ as a guardian for young designers, setting you free to go ahead while guarding you at the back.” 

PINKY WONG
Founder

The Little Finger
H206

“I would use the word ‘unexpected’ to describe my days at PMQ. I chose PMQ because of its advantages in space and location. They offered me a studio and a retail outlet at the same time. As a guide in brand design, PMQ always led me to a world that I had never been before. Designers always concentrate on their own creations and it’s not easy to strike a balance between design and business when managing a brand. PMQ has been dedicated in running this site to attract travellers as well as locals who love design and art. Getting in touch with the target customers can accelerate the development of the brand. PMQ also took us to many large-scale overseas trade shows and pop-up stores, and I started to realise that I could operate a local brand with an international vision. Over the years, my stories and friendships with our customers at PMQ are the sources of inspiration, and gives me the strength to support my ongoing creations.”

NICK GU
Co-Founder & Designer

EONE TIMEPIECES
H206

“Eone mainly designs for the disadvantaged groups as the concept of caring is the starting point of our designs. We definitely encountered uncertainty in ourselves when realising our dreams. We wondered if we should popularise our design to suit the public taste. But finally, we should find our own path and that’s why persistence is absolutely essential. The customers we met at PMQ are our biggest motivation to keep going. The recognition from them is more encouraging than making money or winning prizes. Here, we can have real communication with other tenants and designers while supporting each other. This sense of belonging and cohesion are in no way comparable to ordinary commercial buildings. I also thank PMQ for its support all the time.”

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We Grow with PMQ

We Grow With PMQ

Everyone has different dreams, so as the paths to realise them.

Edmund, the co-founder of Bathe to Basics, a handmade natural skincare brand, and Erick, the founder and creative director of the design brand Glue Associates, have stationed in PMQ as their base to pursue and realise their dreams since its establishment. With shops adjacent to each other, they have grown together with PMQ and experienced various twists and turns in their careers for the past seven years. They followed PMQ to explore overseas markets and adjusted the pace of developing their brands by adapting to the environment. To summarize their growth at PMQ according to Edmund, PMQ is a big tree for them to absorb nutrients and achieve a better self. And if you were lucky enough, you can meet fellows here like them who learn and appreciate each other.

About Dreams —
Between Career and Dream

Edmund:

Some people say that you should set a high standard to achieve your dreams. If it’s hard to pursue, it can be a motivation.

Since I studied design, I have realised that design is powerful. It’s not only the designer’s products that you consume, but also the ideology behind it. So, designers have the responsibility to convey correct messaging to consumers. I later had an opportunity to start up my own brand, and infused my thoughts of endorsing natural, environmental friendly, and simple style into it.

Erick:

For me, a dream is an imaginative scene of the future life that I look forward to, for which I will pursue the related elements. And dreams change along with time. When you were young, it might be idealistic. For now, it is more about striving for a balance between dreams and reality as well as ideas of vitalizing life.

Edmund:

We named the brand Bathe to Basics as this name conveys the meaning of returning to the basics. The lifestyle of modern people is way too complicated. It is better to make it simple. Compared with other brands on the market which are fancier or scientific-research based, we strive to present the idea of returning to the basics through our packaging and ingredients. We use natural plant-based oils and essential oils, and make simple products with the simplest ingredients.

Erick:

People often mistake our shop as a select shop, but actually over 80% of our products are designed and produced by ourselves. Glue Associates is a lifestyle shop curated by us. We hope that our different products can be befitting to everyone’s lifestyles, and to fill the missing parts in their lives. I’m going to increase the proportion of our own products in the future, and want to collaborate with premium brands at the same time to launch some exclusive products, so that everyone can have a unique experience when visiting our shop.

Edmund Ip — Left / Erick Sze — Right

Station at PMQ and Grow by Practices

Erick:

I was stationed at the InnoCentre in 2012 and engaged in design-related services. PMQ held a seminar there and it was very casual that everyone was listening while having some snacks. To be honest, I wasn’t really interested at the first place as I focused more on service design. But my working partner wanted to get into the retail business, so we rented the shop at PMQ together. Later, he decided to withdraw due to personal reasons. Since then, I have been running the entire shop by myself and it has gradually expanded to two shops now.

I mainly sold the products that I designed for other customers when I first started up. I later saw lots of people shopping at PMQ, especially travellers and residents from the Central district. Since then, I gradually launched my own products targeting travellers. I participated in PMQ Select’s pop-up store in Japan a few years ago and found that our products were unexpectedly well-received by the local Japanese. All these experiences helped me to have a clear picture on the preferences of Western and Japanese customers, and guided me to transform gradually from service design to product design. All these were in tune with my pursuit of originality.

We were the first group of designers entering PMQ as our contract with the InnoCentre expired right at that time. PMQ made an exception for us so that we could move in earlier and there were also Wi-Fi devices for rental. The whole site was still under renovation back then, and we were the only shop opened here. Visitors often misidentified us as the information centre and came in for enquiry.

Edmund:

In fact, we were also the first group stationed here!

This year celebrates the brand’s 10th anniversary. My working partner and I had skin problems but we couldn’t find any naturally-made soap which was functional and ingredient-conscious in Hong Kong. Then, we started to make our own soap. We first sold our soaps at farmer markets as well as online platforms, then later we saw the recruitment of PMQ on social media. Honestly, we struggled with the thought of handling a physical shop, but we finally decided to give it a try. As a designer, I also sold some of my own design products and operated in the form of a select shop.

I think we had different expectations on PMQ at the beginning and tried to walk a fine line between retail and design. The turning point was the split with my working partner in 2015. I needed to fill the shop with more home-made products, and this forced me to further contemplate my position in PMQ so as to refine my brand.

Unlike farmer markets or online shops in the past, a physical shop allows customers to locate you in a fixed place, so that you can establish a long-term relationship with them more easily. We can adjust our products according to their feedback and comments, so that they will love our products even more. This is an interactive process, and it’s what I like about PMQ.

Erick:

The advantage of PMQ is that it attracts a wide range of customers. Travellers from different places might have various preferences, but you can still attract a certain group of them as long as you possess a unique style. We all know that the retail environment has become very difficult in recent years. There are no travellers and we’re forced to localize our design and operations. Problem-solving is very important to operations.

I have been multi-tasking for a long time working on product design, production, product display, and serving customers. It’s actually very tiring. I also have to handle marketing and the online shop recently, and I need to take photos, make product videos, and learn about online marketing strategies. I’m especially impressed by Edmund because of this! His shop is next to mine and I saw how he shot videos earlier. He is very professional and he always keeps up with the trends and tries new things.

Edmund:

We’re actually growing together with PMQ. This place is more than a shopping mall and we are not simply a shop as well. Bathe to Basics is a showroom and we have many plants here to offer a complete brand image to customers. Other retailers can also know about us through PMQ and buy our products for sale. Erick once said that high flow of visitors might not be a beneficial factor to us. When there are fewer people, customers will be able to spend more time learning about the brands and products. His insight has really inspired me. 

Erick:

PMQ is indeed not very commercial-like and the environment here is very comfy for us to concentrate more on our own affairs. Of course, the support offered did help lift the financial pressure. PMQ is one of the few places for business start-ups in Hong Kong. The higher living expenses of a location, the higher the cost of starting a business. But PMQ has provided a supporting foundation and a comfortable environment for business start-ups like Taiwan.

Edmund:

There is no MTR station nor a convenient parking facility nearby and there are both pros and cons. Those who come and visit us show their genuine interest in knowing about us. Many travellers love this place very much because they can find the real “Hong Kong”. It’s different from visiting those shopping malls alike and some even said that they could spend a few
days here!

Besides lifestyle products, Glue Associates also launched its garment and accessory series in recent years
Bathe to Basics launched series of limited quantity skincare products featuring natural and environmental-friendly

Mutual Support with Unforgettable Memories

Erick:

I’m impressed by the attractive festive promotion events here. A few years ago, during the Lunar New Year celebration for the Year of Goat, I could see the golden goat art piece from my shop. I just felt like “Wow, it’s so beautiful!” and I’m very happy to be surrounded by such an artistic atmosphere.

Edmund:

Erick just mentioned the experience of joining overseas exhibitions, and it was also very unforgettable for me. I never imagined entering the overseas market just by myself, and PMQ helped us liaise with different parties and expand our markets. Hong Kong is a gateway to the world and there are many travellers visiting PMQ. These activities enabled us to know about their thoughts on us. We broadened our horizon and there were also impacts on our designs. I realised that preserving local elements is important to our brand. So, after I came back, I launched lip balms with local flavours such as Gardenia and Osmanthus. I have been collaborating with brands I met at the exhibitions.

Erick:

I spent a lot of time with Edmund when we took part in the overseas exhibitions. We shared similar ideas and thus became closer with each other. We’ve also joined hands to open a shop earlier.

Edmund:

We both now rent the verandah outside our shop at PMQ as we hope people can take a seat comfortably and extend the atmosphere of our shops to outside for a homey feeling. My shop is next to Erick’s, so we will help coordinate with each other when decorating.

Many neighbouring designers in PMQ are close to each other. Perhaps it’s a continuation of the community spirit of the former police married quarters.

Erick:

PMQ is a supporting friend to us. PMQ has brought us to overseas exhibitions and provided a lot of support in the difficult time during the pandemic. 

Edmund:

PMQ is a big tree with its tree shade like a shield to protect us at all times. We extract nutrients from it, while it shelters us from the wind and rain. We have made contributions that shape the PMQ now – we are the DNA closely linked to
each other.

EDMUND IP
Co-founder of Bathe to Basics

Designer Edmund Ip founded Bathe to Basics, a natural organic skincare brand, and stationed at PMQ since 2014. As the co-founder of the brand, he launched a series of skincare products in limited quantities which are natural and environmental-friendly to accommodate different skincare needs. Obsessed with fragrance, Edmund also introduced various scents for the products to offer a one-of-a-kind experience.

ERICK SZE
Founder & Creative Director of Glue Associates

Designer Erick Sze is the founder and creative director of design brand Glue Associates. Stationed at PMQ since 2014, the brand started as a lifestyle shop and later developed into an integrated shop with a diversity of products focusing on designs by the brand. The in-store workshops offer a one-stop service embracing design, production and retailing, service also includes the launch of garments products, accessories as well as crossover products with local and overseas brands. In 2020, the brand launched the apparel label Incense Harbour.
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Introduction

Between
INSPIRATION &
NURTURING

Between INSPIRATION & NURTURING

Apart from daily business operations, PMQ also serves as a place to cultivate creativity for people who pursue their dreams. 

For the past seven years, PMQ, with its unique operation and atmosphere, has been giving an opportunity for a faction of young creative talents to absorb, transform and grow. They have been exposed to the market and to the world in a stable and comfortable environment where they have opportunities to implement their ideas and move towards their dreams. Together with a wide range of overseas events and support programmes, PMQ has brought local brands to the international stage and made Hong Kong designs recognisable to global audiences. Moreover, a series of PMQ Seed education programmes have been launched to nourish the creative minds of children and teenagers, leading to an eventual dynamic innovation within the city. 

Creating and starting up a business are never easy. PMQ is the soil to cultivate creativity for more wonderful ideas to blossom in our city.

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Other Tenants Showcase

OTHER TENANTS SHOWCASE

AaaM
Architects

The PERISCOPING Series
◎ Sky Design Awards 2019 – Shortlist

GAME OF LIGHT
◎ K-Design Award 2019 – Winner

LIGHT BOTTLE PYRAMID & URBAN LIGHTING SWIRL
◎ Singapore Good Design 2020 – Interior Design Winner

“RE” FLOATING THE PLASTIC
◎ Singapore Good Design 2020 – Interior Design Winner

GAME OF LIGHT
◎ Successful Design Awards 2019-2020

Cuddle Bubble
◎ Successful Design Awards 2019-2020

REDISCOVERING LANDSCAPE INSTALLATION TRILOGY
◎ Iconic Awards 2020 – Innovative Architecture Selection

Fabric Christmas Wonderland
◎ K-Design Award 2020 – Winner

Brinc
S701
Venture Capital
◎ People’s Choice VC Award

cocoon
architecture ltd.
S604

theDesk
◎ Good Design Award 2019

◎ A’ Design Award and Competition 2018 – Silver Design Award winner in 2017-2018 Interior Space and Exhibition Design Award Category

◎ Design for Asia Award 2017 – Merit Award

Eravolution
S401

Zpine Chair
◎ A&D Trophy Awards 2014 – Green Product
(Best in Category, Best of the Best)

◎ A&D Trophy Awards 2014 – Furniture
(Best in Category, Best of the Best)

Product Design
◎ 40 Under 40 Award 2015

Adjunct Lecturer
◎ HKDA Global Design Award 2016 – Best Design Educator

Loom Loop
S205

Chinese Knot
◎ IDA Design Awards 2018 – Bronze Award

Knot-Kleid
◎ German Design Award 2018 – Excellent Product Design in Lifestyle and Fashion

People on board
H304

The World Rescue
◎ German Design Award 2021 – Special Mention

◎ K-Design Award 2019 – Grand Prize

◎ Muse Design Award 2020 – Gold Winner

The Legend of Cheung PO Tsai 2
◎ Asia Design Prize 2020 – Gold Winner

Ding Ding-HK Tramways Board Game
◎ IDA Design Award 2019 – Silver Award

Rcube Store
H408

Kaleido Torch and Night Light
◎ K-Design Award 2015

◎ Hong Kong Smart Design Award 2016 – Silver in Gifts for Workplace

Ball Desktop Mirror
◎ Hong Kong Smart Design Award 2017 – Merit in Bathroom & Personal Care

BalloonDock
◎ Hong Kong Smart Design Award 2018 – Silver in Corporate Gifts and Judge Award

◎ Asia Design Prize 2018

RulerDOck
◎ Asia Design Prize 2018

DOT PET LAUNCHER
◎ Hong Kong Smart Design Award 2017 – Gold in Gifts for Leisure and Recreation

STAND
◎ Hong Kong Smart Design Award 2020 – Gold in Gifts for Workplace

◎ Golden Pin Design 2020

SUN＝SEN
S411

We don’t make fast food
◎ Vogue Talents 2019

Hong Kong Oapes
H310

Silver Mid-Autumn Lantern Jewelry Collection
◎ Hong Kong Smart Design Award 2014 – Gold in Consumer Gifts: Occasional Gifts

Yeung Chin
H406

Indigo Rain
◎ Hong Kong Fashion Trophies Designer of the Year 2017 Womenswear

Eyepopper
H407

Mils Bow Tie
◎ Hong Kong Smart Design Award 2016 – Merit in Personal Accessory Gifts

Designer Showcase

Design Showcase

From products, furniture, fashion, architecture topublic space…… the creativity shaped in PMQ is eclectic and everlasting.

1

Xmas' T (RE)
e Nursery

AaaM Architects
S501
Made up of 16,000 recycled paper drink cartons, this Christmas installation with 36 Christmas trees on a humane scale aims to raise environmental awareness in festive consumerism.

◎ K-Design Awards
◎ Design for Asia Award Bronze
◎ GOOD DESIGN AWARD

2

Eone Watch

EONE TIMEPIECES
H201

Designed for the visually impaired, this timepiece tells the time precisely by two magnetic ball bearings showing the minutes and the hours respectively.

◎ Da Vinci Awards
◎ The German Design Council
◎ Red Dot Award: Product Design

3

Invisi Pen

Rcube
Store

Perfect for home and outdoor, the Invisi pen can be used with a cover as a portable pen or simply inserted into the stand and the pen cover will disappear like magic. The simple design is crafted in brass without any extra parts.

◎ Asia Design Prize 2019 Winner
◎ Hong Kong Smart design award 2019 – Silver Award (Workplace)

4

URBAN FARM CHANGSHA

BEAMS Creative
H312

The rooftop farm was developed in the traditional rigorous linear farm grid with a simple structure that is purely multi-functional to give an urban take on the rural life many had just left behind.

◎ Asia Design Prize

5

Forbidden Walled City

Loom Loop
S205

Bridging the Kowloon Walled City with the famous and well-preserved Beijing Forbidden City, this collection uses Canton silk and the authentic brocade from Sichuan to feature flowing silk dresses emblazoned with the new nine dragon prints.

◎ Platinum – Fashion Design
◎ Silver Winner in Fashion and Textile Design Category

6

DiSCARVERY

Blindbyjw
H306

It is a scarf that combines travel fun and fashionable essentials with added warmth. Wearers can simply use the map and scan the QR codes on the scarf to discover the next destinations.

 

◎ (IDA) International Design Awards 2019
◎ Smart Gift Award Merit and Judge Award 2020
◎ The D project – top 10 finalist

7

Swirl Jade Ring

Playback Concept
S212

This Swirl Jade Ring revisits the perceptions of social norms, family ethics and hierarchy via interactive and modern design features.

◎ Cultural & Creative Award – The Best of Cultural & Creative Awards 2019 (Taiwan)

8

Stackable Vase

Pong
H311

This vase is dissected into three parts to carry flowers of all varieties, while the separable parts can hold different objects when flowers are not in season.

◎ Hong Kong Smart Design Awards
◎ Red Dot Design Award

9

SS18 COLLECTION - SOULMATE

MODEMENT
S303

Referencing the biblical creation of Eve from Adam’s bone and flesh, this bespoke collection is built on a foundation of sustainable luxury with a unisex concept.

◎ Createsmart Young Design Talent Award

10

Kendall International – Preschool

Cocoon architecture ltd.
S604

Transformed into small houses around the open area, the classrooms offer plenty of spaces for activities to liberate imaginations, giving a new twist on the rigid podium design of kindergartens in Hong Kong.

◎ A’ Design Award in Interior Space & Exhibition Design Category
◎ German Design Award

11

Living Hollow

Obellery Studio
H403

The design reveals the relationship between containers and the objects inside to transform geometry into flowing and functional jewellery.

◎ DFA Design For Asia Awards 2017
◎ German design award special 2019
◎ Timeout HK 2020 Recommends

12

Mils Reading Glasses

Eyepopper
H407

Crafted in acetate, this eyewear combines reading glasses with a necklace to make a vintage piece a fashionable accessory.

◎ Hong Kong Smart Gifts Design Awards 2015 – Gold in Accessory Gifts

13

Hong Kong Skyline

Hong Kong Oapes
S604

This silver collection infuses the world-renowned stunning skyline of Hong Kong through a die-cut technique to reveal the oriental culture on the wearers.



◎ Silver A’ Design Award in Jewelry, Eyewear & Watch Design Category
◎ IDA Design Awards Bronze 2017
◎ European Product Design Award – 2019 Silver Prize Winner

14

CHEESE TO THE WORLD

SUN＝SEN
S411

This collection conveys a story of extinction and evolution in a humorous and imaginary way by using unusual silhouette, colour combinations as well as the prints and Nuno felting made by the designer.

◎ iD Dunedin Fashion Week 2016 – iD International Emerging Awards 

15

Oh!T

Pong
H311

This is the world’s first intelligently designed, patent-pending 3-in-1 tea strainer with an innovative magnetic tea lid that allows drinkers to adjust the strength of the brew by moving the tea infuser up and down inside the cup.

◎ A’ Design Award and Competition

16

Lumio

Lumio
S607

It is a book when closed, which unfolds into a sculptural light when opened. It can be recharged wirelessly and provides powerful lighting anywhere.

◎ Red Dot Design Award

17

The Next Talents by Vogue Italia

Matter Matters
S102

Matter Matters’ designer Flora Leung, The Next Talents selected by Vogue Italia, plays with a vivid palette and graphic motifs in her creations.

◎ The Next Talents by Vogue Italia

18

Uphold Cup

Eravolution
S401

This cup is formed from a particular set of geometries that allow it to collapse vertically with “a twist”. Compact and easy to use, the cup is a combination of mathematics, practicality and design elements.

◎ A&D Trophy Awards 2016, Green Product (Best in Category)
◎ Hong Kong Design Awards 2017, Gold Award
◎ HKDA Global Design Awards 2018, Excellence

 

19

With The Flow

Eravolution
S401

Part of the project City Dress Up: Seats Together, the installation is made up of a low sinuous bench and a number of ellipsoids with a satin surface placed so they would not disturb tree roots.

◎ A&D Trophy Awards 2019, Architecture – Landscape (Excellence)

20

Plover

Eravolution
S401

Capturing the free spirit of the flying birds, this collection of chairs comes in various colours, chair legs, and structural options to empower users with the freedom to decide on their own sitting directions and postures.

◎ Golden Pin Design Award 2019
◎ Design For Asia Award 2019, Bronze Award
◎ A’Design Award 2020, Platinum
◎ Singapore Good Design Award 2020, Product
◎ Good Design Award 2020, Product

21

Kenny Li Cheongsam Capsule Series

FAVE BY KENNY LI
H303

Inspired by the stained-glass windows of Western art-style churches in the 17th century and traditional Chinese clothing, this series of unique cheongsam is 100% hand-stitched and made with silk printed fabric technology and traditional craftsmanship of cloisonne and filigree inlay art.

◎ Shenzhen Global Design Award 2019 – Bronze
◎ HKDA GDA 2019 – Winners HK Best
◎ HKDA GDA 2019 – Winners Bronze

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MTR board game

People on board
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Through this special board game, children are encouraged to develop a good sense of railway safety and courteous passenger behaviour by moving their train pieces to different MTR stations for missions.

◎ DFA Design for Asia award- Merit
◎ IDA Design Award Gold award
◎ Muse design award
◎ German design award (Product )

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EX!! cupholder

Rcube Store
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This cup holder can be secured at your home, office desk or even baby stroller. Now no need to worry about liquid splashing all over your documents or computer.

◎ Hong Kong Smart Design Award

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Designer Journey

Design Journey

In PMQ, there are different stories about design in Hong Kong. Whether it is used as a medium of cultural heritage, creative expression, social advancement, or simply a pursuit of a higher level in design, every creation was interpreted first-hand by the designer. 

POLLY HO
Founder and Fashion Designer of Loom Loop

LOOM LOOP
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“We always want to tell stories through fashion to preserve traditional cultures and craftsmanship. I joined PMQ and established the brand at the same time. Everything started from scratch and we’ve grown together. PMQ is like a home to me, with open doors that everyone can come in and have a chat. I get along very well with neighbouring designers and we often exchange insider information with each other. It’s a good experience to participate in overseas exhibitions with PMQ. There was once a visitor coming to PMQ and invited me to design the staff uniform for a five-star hotel in Singapore. You never know what opportunity comes next. Nowadays, fashion design is not just simply about fashion, but a joint creation with catering and interior design. This represents my growth in PMQ.”

YEUNG CHIN
Founder and Fashion Designer of Yeung Chin

YEUNG CHIN
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“I will describe PMQ as a liberate, diverse and unrestrained bridge. Hong Kong designers need a platform to showcase their works and develop in a versatile way. My brand always tries to integrate art and fashion. During my time at PMQ, I had the opportunity to showcase some artistic works on creative platforms like deTour and Smart Fashion Runway, where I was able to grow up step-by-step. There were many chances to have media interviews from different countries at least once a month on average. The interview opportunity is a good promotion, and in which I can rethink the positioning of my brand.”

BELINDA CHEUNG
Co-founder of Obellery and Jewellery Designer

OBELLERY
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“We like plants so we have a lot in our PMQ studio. These plants have also become our source of inspiration. We have created the Cactile series with succulent plants as the main theme. The design is based on the touch rather than visual impact. The location of PMQ is awesome, with frequent flow of visitors but you won’t get completely swamped so that we can concentrate on craft creation. Its reasonable rent also allows us to invest more in equipment to try new attempts in design. We get along very well with the PMQ team – like friends supporting one other. It was them who took us to overseas exhibitions and assisted us in promotion etc. During the past seven years, we’ve been working at PMQ almost every day and interacting with neighbours. It’s just a wonderful memory.”

BEN CHUNG
Founder of EYEPOPPER Design Limited

EYEPOPPER
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“As an eyewear designer, I always want to promote Hong Kong eyewear design. Some of our eyewear designs are named after the streets near PMQ, such as the one named Aberdeen Street. Since stationing in PMQ in 2014, it’s undoubtedly provided me with a suitable environment for design. I can directly understand the thoughts of my customers, so as to adjust and improve the design. As there are many designers stationed here, we can promote different creative collaborations through interaction. The recent tinted glasses collaboration, for example, is the collaboration with the tie-dye designer on the above floor. With the subsidy from PMQ, I also participated in some overseas trade shows. These events were helpful for me to open up overseas markets and see if my products are popular. As we received an enthusiastic response after participating in the gift show, we decided to establish a second line that broadened my creative mind.”

KEVIN SIU, BOB PANG and SHUYAN CHAN
Co-founders of AaaM Architects

AaaM Architects
S501

“Design needs to be nurtured within diversity. With various groups gathering in PMQ, including designers, the public, community members and foreign visitors, designers can get in touch with them and enhance their understanding of people and their daily needs. Various exhibitions at PMQ have also become the nutrients to boost creativity. Our first collaboration with PMQ is particularly memorable. It was a Christmas installation in 2017. We wanted to create the installation in the most environmentally-friendly way. PMQ linked us up with an environmental organization to make it with tens of thousands of drink cartons, creating a work with educational purpose and visual impact at the same time. This work received many international awards.

There is an old tree in front of PMQ, where birds serenade while people interact underneath every day. It is an ecosystem, and PMQ is such a tree.”

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Cross-disciplinary Designs Gateway to International Stage

Cross-disciplinary Designs
Gateway to International Stage

Cross-disciplinary Designs Gateway to International Stage

For each successful design, every mature designer needs to go through training from an early stage. They could not thrive without the delicate interplay of their environment, opportunities, and personal insights. Hong Kong architecture design firm LAAB and fashion brand HARRISON WONG are pioneers in their respective fields. They are renowned for their many outstanding masterpieces. What they have in common is that they both chose PMQ as the starting point for their careers. They have designed many amazing works here and taken their first steps for global recognition.

LAAB said that people still regard them as a part of PMQ even though they have already moved out. Harrison, on the other hand, said that PMQ has been the proving ground for his fashion career. Looking back on their journey at PMQ, they never forget their intentions of starting up their career and have come that far along the way.

Go Beyond the Boundary in Fashion & Architecture

Harrison:

Since I was little, I‘ve been greatly interested in pop culture and enjoyed dressing up myself. I gradually realised that I wanted to be in the fashion industry and that’s why I am here. How about you guys?

 

Hang:

I’ve always loved building things, drawing, and woodworking since childhood. My major subject was engineering but I didn’t like mathematics. I was influenced by all those films and I thought it’s cool to be an architect doing drawings with a T-square. Then, I changed to study architecture. 

 

Otto:

I was not familiar with the architecture industry at the beginning, but I just loved building models, four-wheel cars and Legos, etc. Later, I had an opportunity to explore the design industry and found myself having a great interest in design and technology. I finally decided to study design as I also thought it’s cool, and you could feel my passion in technology in my recent works. 

 

Harrison: 

This industry is about being “cool”. We didn’t have any social media when we were young. I really loved watching music videos and studying the look of all those artists. This raised my interest in fashion.

 

Otto:

Did you think you were cool when you were young?

 

Harrison: 

Well, I loved dressing up and made my school uniforms look funny. I’ve usually followed the rules, and have crossed the line as always.

Harrison Wong — Left / Otto Ng — Right 1/ Yip Chun Hang — Right 2

Otto:

It’s great to be cool without breaking school rules! 

I think it’s all about attitude. To be honest, the curriculum of primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong is quite rigid. They are so cautious about crossing the line. Yet, design can stimulate thoughts. Now, I always share my thoughts with my colleagues. As a designer, one should identify the boundary and then go beyond. There is nothing to lose of being a little bit quirky.

 

Hang:

Before setting up LAAB, Otto and I just worked in ordinary architecture firms. We got used to all those rigid practices and we could imagine being stuck in the rut in the next two or three decades. To make a good design in Hong Kong, we have to try crossing the line. But it doesn’t mean you do it out of nowhere. Like architecture, in particular, it has to be practical and meet the standards and customer requirements. It’s not purely art. Honestly, I only thought about “crossing the line” when I started working in this field. 

 

Harrison: 

I am the other way round. After starting my business, I became more stable and tried to strike a balance between design and business. I’ve never planned to open a shop. Considering the rental rates in Hong Kong, it’s impossible to pick a location that could fulfill the brand’s image. PMQ has provided such an opportunity, so I applied to open a shop there. Before joining PMQ, I just worked in other companies and would occasionally launch solo collections in trade shows. With PMQ, I started to develop my brand in full run. 

I clearly remembered that I stationed in April 2014 and I was one of the first shops at PMQ.

Building Social Circle at PMQ

Otto:

It seems that we were the first ones stationed at PMQ as the other shops were still under renovation at the time when we opened. When I first learned about PMQ, I found it awesome as it’s the first large community with designers from various fields. I really wanted to be part of it and our brand was just established at that time.

To us, being part of PMQ and starting up a business were closely linked. PMQ has provided the space as well as different opportunities. We’re not just a tenant, and we also took part in many collaborations, including Cotton Run. Additionally, Colourscape was a pioneering work using masking tape to cover the entire Courtyard & Marketplace. PMQ has provided us the opportunities to try new things, and to grow mutually.

Colourscape, LAAB, 2016

Hang:

 

My first visit to PMQ was the deTour event some years ago. I was impressed as it was also the filming location of the Asian film Three. As an architecture firm, it is our privilege to be located in such a historic building where we have a window shop for the interaction with the public. It’s completely different from other architecture firms.

 

Otto:

It’s difficult to have new clients if we’re located at a commercial or industrial building. While at PMQ, many people just came in and talked to us, and some of them became our clients later. Recently, a client I met seven years ago came back to us again.

 

Hang:

Just like our project Small Home Smart Home, which was a 300-square foot residential design project adjacent to PMQ. Living nearby, the client just passed by and stopped in. He said that other designers refused to take his project and he asked if we were interested. We got this chance only because we had a shop in PMQ. And at the end, this project was widely recognised by international media and received many awards.

 

Otto:

 

We moved our shop in PMQ once from Unit 607 to a connected studio. We moved out to a commercial building for a while later as we need more manpower and space. Recently, we’ve moved in again in a shop on ground floor as we want to experience the vibe of neighbourhood at PMQ. 

The neighbourhood relationship at PMQ is essential. It’s similar to the public housing estates in the past, where you can see each other’s shop from the verandah and the courtyard is right down there. It’s truly a place for social interaction and events.

 

Harrison: 

I moved here earlier and there were only a few shops when I opened mine. The large crowd of people in the 1600 Pandas exhibition was a memory/image I would not soon forget. Since the opening in PMQ, the local customers can have a better knowledge of my brand and this helps me to develop overseas markets.

When travelling to neighbouring countries in the past, I’m so envious of the places there which offer pieces created by local designers. So, when PMQ opened its door, I really wanted to be here and this opportunity fulfilled my dream of having my own shop.

Cottonrun, LAAB, 2015

The Memorable Moment of Growing up in PMQ

Otto:

The collaborations with PMQ are indeed very special to us. Apart from the convenient location for me to work, I can also get the direct response from the audiences. This is not quite possible in other projects.

Hang:

The Jellyfish Fermata at The QUBE impressed me most. It was a surreal and tranquil installation amid the bustling Central and the experience was fun. This was also our first collaboration with other tenants in PMQ. The outer cover of the installation was done by Chailie Ho.

Harrison: 

What impressed me most is the support by PMQ for us to participate in overseas fashion weeks and trade shows every season, taking us to the global stage to interact with international buyers. It’s like regular gatherings with a bunch of designers. We have been to many places such as Shanghai and Paris, and we went to many different trade shows at a time. That’s really fun. PMQ also subsidised part of the expenses.

Designers and their works must go overseas to experience the true scope of fashion. Europe is always the hub of fashion and Hong Kong is not a target for international buyers. It’s an ongoing effort to go abroad and get in touch with the international market. For the first few visits, you might only have the chance for the buyers to get to discover your brand. When they make sure you’re not a flash in the pan, then they will consider buying your designs.

Harrison Wong, Spring Summer 2019, Ontimeshow Shanghai
Harrison Wong, Fall Winter 2017, Tradeshow: Paris Sur Mode

Otto:

Apart from the practical collaboration and support, PMQ has continuously organised seminars and exhibitions for us to learn more about our peers and even the works and ideas of designers from all over the world. It’s a form of invisible exchange.

British designer Thomas Heatherwick is one of the designers that I personally appreciate and respect the most. I was overwhelmed to be able to coordinate with him in the exhibition New British Inventors: Inside Heatherwick Studio when I met him and his family. I was particularly impressed that he discussed the difference of asphalt used in Hong Kong and the UK. His keen observation and agility is the foundation for his innovations.

Hang:

The part I enjoyed most about PMQ is that I can wander around. Sometimes when I got stuck with work, I just walked out and visited the shops of other designers or Japanese brands to get some inspiration.

Otto:

We constantly make changes. We once used PMQ’s display windows and verandah to showcase products or artistic furniture.

Harrison: 

I’ve focused on fashion retailing and I made PMQ as my starting point. The rental rate here was relatively low so I could see whether my products could be popular in the market. I tried this approach and I could really envision it. Based on the experiences and data that I have in PMQ, I could determine the feasibility of opening shops in other places. After many attempts, we have gradually expanded to have five HARRISON WONG stores today.

PMQ as the Starting Point of Success

Otto:

We’ve already set out on our own for five years and it’s interesting that many people still think that we’re part of PMQ. They probably knew us through PMQ, first about our works displayed here and then our design concepts.

Harrison: 

The reason why I stay at PMQ is that there are regular customers and supporters who keep coming back here. Some foreign visitors even come to us every time they visit Hong Kong.

In the past, if my overseas friends asked me where to find local fashion in Hong Kong, my answer would always be “no”. Shopping malls in Hong Kong are almost identical. Over-commercialisation and high rental rates are the reasons that eliminate local designs. In fact, there are many Hong Kong people who appreciate local designs, but it’s difficult for local designers to survive in this commercial-based environment. There was no such creative platform before the establishment of PMQ in 2014.

Otto:

Sometimes the public might not understand the role of a designer until they have the opportunity to interact with each other. For many of our clients, we chatted at PMQ and hit it off. We then collaborated and became friends. These are not ordinary projects, but an experiment and a dream of putting our ideas into practice together.

Harrison: 

PMQ is definitely a good platform that allows designers to expose themselves.I often say that Hong Kong needs more places like PMQ. One is not enough, more is better.

Otto:

Or transform those shopping malls into an entity similar to PMQ.

In this era, independent brands or start-ups are gaining more attention, while new cultures and creativities become increasingly acceptable. We also see more and more designers devoting themselves to the industry.

Harrison: 

For young designers, PMQ is definitely a place for them to see if their ideas are feasible. After getting a certain work experience, they can take a first step at PMQ and see how to carve a niche in other places.

Yip Chun Hang & Otto Ng, Architecture Director & Director of LAAB

LAAB is a laboratory for art and architecture dedicated to public space, contemporary architecture, interior designs, and digital art experiences. Led by co-founders Otto Ng and Yip Chun Hang, our collective of architects, designers, engineers, makers, and sociologists work together with forward-thinking clients and collaborators to bring visionary designs to life. Widely recognized projects include the K11 MUSEA and Victoria Dockside, Leica Flagship Store and the Hong Kong House at the Japan Echigo Tsumari Art Triennale. In 2020, LAAB was named “The Design Studio of the Year” by the INDE Awards.

Harrison Wong, Founder & Creative Director of HARRISON WONG

Fashion designer Harrison Wong, founder of HARRISON WONG, made his debut by winning the Hong Kong Young Designer’s Contest and the special prize of Asian Fashion Grand Prix Contest in Japan. He then earned his Masters Degree from the London College of Fashion and worked as the Design Director for a number of fashion houses in Hong Kong and China. He opened his menswear retail shop at PMQ in 2014, and his designs were showcased at various fashion events including the fashion weeks in Tokyo and New York. His designs are sold in the US, Italy, Germany, and Japan with five stores in Hong Kong.

Project LAAB

Colourscape, deTour collaboration with MT Tape

The installation interlaced the former space of PMQ and today’s courtyard with multicoloured masking tapes filled the area where people can interact with each other.

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Cotton Run, deTour 2015

Controlled by digital technology, this art installation consisted of a kinetic treadmill and a cotton candy machine. As the visitors ran on the treadmill, their energies could activate the machine that produced cotton candy. It aimed to deliver a positive message to people who are undergoing hardship.

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Jellyish Fermata, deTour 2016

This installation was made by an interdisciplinary team of architects, fashion designers, engineers and media artists which engaged with the mood of people by orchestrating a tempo with transforming mechanical architecture, lighting and music.

Project Harrison Wong

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Shanghai Fashion Weeks, Harrison Wong SS 2019

Inspired by Dutch painter Piet Mondrian, the collection showcased a combination of arts and fashion in Shanghai, revealing a sporty style with its exceptional cutting.

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New York Fashion Week, Harrison Wong FW 2017

On the runway in New York Fashion Week, the collection presented the silhouette, fabric texture, volume and tailoring inspired from cowls for a sense of solemnity.

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NEW YORK, NY - FEBRUARY 15: A model walks the runway at Fashion Hong Kong Fall/Winter 2017 during New York Fashion Week: The Shows at Gallery 3, Skylight Clarkson Sq on February 15, 2017 in New York City. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for Fashion Hong Kong)
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Tradeshow: Paris Sur Mode, Harrison Wong FW 2017

After the showcase in New York, the 2017 collection, created with a deep and profound palette combining traditional and modern elements, was brought to the runway in Paris. 

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Introduction

Between
IMAGINATION
& APPLICATION

Between MAGINATION & APPLICATION

PMQ, the embodiment of the spirit of design, is an architectural space that inherits the history and humanity of the former Police Married Quarters on Hollywood Road. It is the perfect place for designers to explore the eternal theme of old and new, as well as the past and future. The magnificent community between Central and Sheung Wan has become a foothold for visitors to learn and respond to social changes. With versatile expertise, the talents here serve as a living proof of “multi-disciplinary and diversified” designs. 

Only a diverse and open atmosphere can nurture good designs. A stable and inclusive environment for growth is also vital, while the interaction between peers with same beliefs can ignite creativity. It is, without a doubt, encouraging for numerous design ideas and projects that have been created in PMQ. Looking forward, PMQ will continue to strive as the cornerstone for exploration, creation, and the knowledge of design; and to promote the development of creative design in Hong Kong across generations.

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