As companies seek alternative locations beyond Central's limited office space, staff who have familiarised themselves with the business district may also know other locations when they venture out at lunchtime or after work.
In the coming weeks, Directory will be looking at the character of other neighbourhoods on Hong Kong Island where office developers have either already ventured, or use for recreation.
Today, we take a look at Central's sister precincts of Sheung Wan and Western, which have been absorbing the office overflow, many in search of cheaper rents.
Love or loathe its expansionism, the pioneering serviced office provider of Compass has nailed its flag to this part of town with locations at Yardley Commercial Building, in Connaught Road West, near Western Market, and in Des Voeux Road Central, at Infinitus Plaza, where Sheung Wan roughly begins.
Certain office buildings, such as The Center, command superb sea views that can come at a premium, and have retail and dining venues on the lower floors.
At street level, local character replaces the corporate and luxury brand names of Central with cafes and bars that have opened to cater to new residents and office workers. With the MTR Island Line extension starting from there, it is seen as another new frontier for urban Hong Kong.
