On a recent work trip to Hong Kong, Rebecca Bisset checks in to a different kind of accommodation, 8KwaiFong serviced apartments, away from the heart of the hustle and bustle.
Home Away From Home
It’s a nice surprise to arrive at an elegant, matte gold door, on a quiet side street in Happy Valley. 8KwaiFong is the name of the new set of serviced apartments I’m trying on this trip; they haven’t been open long, and they’re the first of their type in Hong Kong.
The aim here is to create a feeling of home, with the elegance of high ceilings, tall Ming-style doors and artisanal pieces of furniture and accessories in the property’s public areas. You won’t find the large lobby of a hotel, so it does feel more like coming to an apartment; still, downstairs there is a communal dining/meeting room and a lounge where you can help yourself to coffee, read the newspaper (or the Hong Kong edition of Expat Living!) or watch TV.
Attention to décor
Additionally, there’s a room that can be used for dinner parties that has a cooking area and also opens up to a beautiful enclosed garden with barbecue facilities. All the communal areas house a collection of artisanal creations, from pottery to art, and this makes it feel more like you’re in your own apartment – or that of a wealthy friend! There’s also a lovely roof terrace with artificial turf where you can soak up the sunshine, even on a wintery day.
On top of the positive reaction you’ll get from an initial overview of 8KwaiFong, the rooms – mine was a one-bed suite; there are also studios – are beautifully done. The clever use of mirrors, more of those high ceilings, and the full-length windows all make the space seem much larger than it is. There’s also a balcony accessible through French doors, which brings the green hills of Happy Valley even closer. Even the bedroom has the whole length and height as the window, with the same green outlook.
The one-bedroom apartments include a small dining area and kitchenette with Gaggenau electrical appliances, so the place is also perfect for having a few light meals or breakfast at home. Free Wi-Fi and local calls also help with getting on with business and social stuff while you’re away, and the laundry facilities are complimentary – so it’s just like home!
To make a booking, call Elite Services at +852 2929 1228 or email enquiries@8kf.com.hk. To view guest reviews and for more info, visit 8kf.com.hk.
This article first appeared in the February 2017 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase a copy or subscribe so you never miss an issue!
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