Building on a century of vision: Irene Lee’s leadership at Hysan Development
Redefining a sustainable community at Lee Gardens in Causeway Bay
Under the stewardship of chairman Irene Lee, Hysan Development is redefining urban sustainability and community in Hong Kong. Anchored by a century-old legacy, Lee’s leadership is driving the transformation of Causeway Bay with a future-focused vision and a “Core and Pillars” strategy that set new benchmarks for urban evolution in Hong Kong.
By spearheading the development of Hysan’s Lee Gardens area, Lee is ensuring the company retains its strong foundation in Hong Kong while addressing the needs of an ever-changing city.
Urban transformation
Hysan’s latest milestone, Lee Garden Eight – a 1 million sq ft premium commercial development set for completion in 2026 – will expand the Lee Gardens leasable portfolio by approximately 30 per cent, establishing new benchmarks for sustainability and connectivity.
This groundbreaking project and the broader Lee Gardens rejuvenation, including new pedestrian bridges, with a total investment by Hysan and its tenants amounting to approximately HK$30 billion, illustrate Lee’s devotion to creating people-centric spaces that anticipate the emerging needs of Hong Kong’s dynamic community.
“Our roots are deep, but our vision is always forward-looking,” Lee says. “We are true to my grandfather’s vision, which was to create a commercial precinct catering to a growing and increasingly prosperous population. It sets our bedrock while we remain committed to a dynamic curation which addresses changes and structural shifts. We are devoted to adapting and transforming Lee Gardens for those who visit, work, shop, or just come to enjoy the area. Our legacy must remain relevant for future generations.”
Core and pillars strategy
Hysan’s enduring success is guided by its “Core and Pillars” strategy. The “Core” focuses on reinforcing and expanding the Lee Gardens area, with Lee Garden Eight the most ambitious example yet, while maintaining its position as a vibrant commercial and cultural hub that meets shifting demands.
The “Pillars” represent a diversified growth model, complementing asset-heavy with asset-light investments for a comprehensive business strategy. Hysan is extending its reach with projects such as Lee Gardens Shanghai and investment in the Greater Bay Area for flexible office solutions that address the increasing demand for hybrid workspaces and capture new growth opportunities. The “Core and Pillars” strategy is executed with prudent financial discipline that ensures long-term stability and resilience amid market changes.
Century-old legacy
Hysan’s legacy in shaping Lee Gardens into a vibrant commercial and cultural hub began in 1923 with the acquisition of East Point Hill, now known as Causeway Bay, by Irene Lee’s grandfather, Lee Hysan. He built the Lee Garden Amusement Park in 1924 and Lee Theatre in 1927 with the vision of creating a place that fosters social and community connection.
The Lee Gardens area has since flourished, becoming a model of community-centric growth. By embracing Hysan’s legacy, current chairman Irene Lee has transformed Lee Gardens into a destination offering premier office, retail and lifestyle experiences set in a connected neighbourhood.
Lee’s leadership has driven the rejuvenation of Lee Gardens, envisioned during the pandemic as an opportunity for reinvention. “Rather than staying still, we saw an opportunity to establish a centre of urban culture that would bridge the neighbourhood with initiatives that integrate commerce and leisure,” Lee says.
A critical milestone in the rejuvenation of Lee Gardens is the renovation and expansion of more than 10 flagship maisons for luxury brands, and the addition of curated lifestyle brands alongside a vibrant mix of new and renowned food and drinks outlets. “Our strategy reflects Hysan’s philosophy of merging heritage with innovation, committing to the authenticity of Hysan’s legacy while addressing the demands of modern society.”
Hysan’s recent initiatives, including a new integrated pedestrian walkway system seamlessly connecting the entire Lee Gardens area to the Causeway Bay MTR within minutes, underscore Hysan’s dedication to creating a pedestrian-friendly neighbourhood. These enhancements are designed to strengthen accessibility for all, fostering the Lee Gardens area’s position as a vibrant hub with ease of mobility.
Harvest phase
Hysan is now entering its “harvest phase” – a period of realisation of long-term investments and portfolio rejuvenation. Under Lee’s stewardship, the company is well-positioned to address generational changes and evolving societal needs.
“The current approach reflects our ability to build on Hysan’s heritage while pioneering to address the structural shifts of demands resulting from generational transitions – from baby boomers to Generation Alpha – and an increasingly mobile demographic,” Lee says.
As Hong Kong’s economic and social landscape evolves, Hysan continues to set the standard for placemaking. The “Core and Pillars” strategy, combined with Lee’s vision, ensures Hysan will remain at the forefront of shaping a sustainable and inclusive future for Hong Kong.
“We are building on a foundation of responsibility and adaptability,” Lee says. “Our focus is to develop Lee Gardens into a thriving community that reflects Hong Kong’s spirit and delivers authentic experiences to every generation.”