Where to buy the best outdoor furniture in Hong Kong

If you’re struggling to find just the right fitting to kit our your balcony, patio, roof or garden this summer, we have just the solution.

Needless to say, furniture shopping can be a chore that causes a fair amount of frustration. Whether you’re seeking something modern or scaling back the extravagance with something more minimalist, we’ve gone through the effort of compiling a list of the best high-end outdoor furniture stores in the city so you can find the right fixture for your alfresco needs.

Zzue Creation

Redefining outdoor living in Hong Kong, Zzue Creation sets the bar for the type of outdoor furniture you can get in the city, providing home owners a solution to all things comfortable, contemporary and convenient. From daybeds and pool loungers to BBQ grills and dining tables to shadings and swings and more, it offers the highest quality products deigned by a breadth of global designers from over 50 renowned brands. 

Better yet, the team at Zzue Creation offers reliable top-notch services, including consultation, one-stop delivery, installation, and maintenance services, putting customers’ minds at ease throughout the process. 

Location: Shop 2612-17, Horizon Plaza, Ap Lei Chau
Contact: +852 2580 0633 / info@zzuecreation.com

 

C’est Koo
This store frequently updates their website with a range of new styles and customisable options to furnish a variety of different sized homes. From elegant lounge chairs and day beds to misting fans, led lighting, this store provides a luxurious getaway from your own backyard.
Location: Chai Wan
Contact: +852 3495 5275

Garden Gallery
For a more backyard / garden outdoor solution to the forthcoming summertime fun, this furniture store provides an expansive range of accessories, storage compartments and even an ultra-frame swimming pool.  From sheds to safely store away tools, equipments and bikes to barbeque grills and accessories to foldable chairs and dining tables.
Location: Ap Lei Chau / Shatin / Mong Kok
Contact: +852 6117 2938 (Ap Lei Chau branch)

Harbour Outdoor
Australian outdoor furniture with unique designs and incredibly durable materials, this shop’s tropical weather-inspired outdoor fixtures ideally matches the hot and humid weather of the city while still presenting beautifully modern and elegant upholstery.
Location: Ap Lei Chau
Contact: +852 2765 6188

Irony Home
From heaters and barbeque equipments to gazebos and parasols, this stylish furniture store stocks a range of products sourced from places like Spain, Italy and New Zealand. They even produce grade A teak wood furniture, flooring and even swings, specially treated with a powder coating for durability and longer lasting quality.
Location: Ap Lei Chau
Contact: +852 2845 2567

Sun Garden
This store imports premium quality products from around the world. From outdoor kitchens and barbeque equipment to small-scale utility sheds, this place will surely offer a one-stop solution to all things alfresco.
Location: Ap Lei Chau
Contact: +852 2614 1822

Everything Under The Sun
Providing furniture and accessories designed for homeowners to live a stylish lifestyle. This store selects products made from the trendy materials, evident in their modish furniture. They also stock accessories such as umbrellas, awnings and barbeque equipment for a complete day out in the sun.
Location: Ap Lei Chau
Contact: +852 2554 9088

Home Couture: Upscale living in the heart of Hong Kong

Designing a home imbued with the spirit of originality takes not only passion for design and eye for detail, but also the confidence to imagine beyond the ordinary. Creativity melds and decodes different ideas in a way that inspires without the need for words. It can be discerned, for example, when the worlds of haute couture and interior architecture marry to give birth to a dream home in which with the details of every room reflect your thoughts, emotions and identity. A home that speaks your mind, whether in the subtle tones of a lampshade or the loud accents of the wall trim.

Tailored fittings meet designer furnishings in Hong Kong's most prestigious high rise 39 conduit road mid levels danny chiu
A splendid 2,476sq.ft apartment on the higher floors of 39 Conduit Road

If one might dare to dream, what would that dream home look like? Perhaps a visit to 39 Conduit Road in Mid-Levels West – conveniently located within minutes of Central – might provide the answer. The building itself fleetingly held the record for the most expensive apartment in the world, in which a flat could set you back anywhere upwards of HK$188 million. Here, nestled on the higher floors of one of the city’s most prestigious residential high rises is a residence that literally glows with sophistication as it encapsulates the stylish taste and lavish lifestyle of its owner.   

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Floor-to-ceiling windows for cityscape as far as the eye can see…

Filling 2,476sq.ft of space with ease and comfort, the recently renovated three-bedroom home embraces contemporary Italian furniture, crystal decoration and high-end smart technology – a winning combination made possible by the talents of Danny Chiu. Going above and beyond the usual, the award-winning interior designer approached this assignment from a singular perspective, imagining himself as a tailor crafting a one-of-a-kind evening gown.

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Luxurious granite floors for an enviable modern touch

But a home as beautiful as this does not come without its challenges. The project took Chiu almost two years to complete, from drawing inspiration from fashion magazines as he researched to designing the floor plan and creating mock ups, and from sourcing some of the rarest materials he has ever used to painstaking construction.

From the first step inside, the design flows seamlessly. Grey maple wood defines the walls and ceiling of the open layout in an ample living area. Cool beige tones impart a clean-lined, earthy feel of modern luxury enhanced by charming oriental touches and colour accents. Strokes of blue enliven the designer rug; Baccarat crystal flashes from multiple surfaces as it catches the light; and delicate champagned-hued gold leaf highlights the curvature of the ceiling and feature wall.

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Fine Italian furnishings to glam your meal time…

In this space of undoubted refinement, the granite floor takes precedence. The unique veins traversing the stone evoke a calming sense of movement, from foyer to sitting room to dining area, then leading the line of sight to the idyllic harbour view. This feat of inventive grounding saw Chiu travel to several places and collect countless samples in order to achieve the perfect fit and design for the home.

Dressed in Fendi and Vissionaire, the lush furnishings were also arranged with care and consideration. From the television and bar cabinets to the dining table and upholstery, all the fittings were handmade in Italy and customised in the correct colours and exacting designs to match the interior theme.

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Uninterrupted city views…

Behind a pair of sliding doors in the wall of windows on one side of the room is a quiet garden-themed oasis. The balcony provides an intimate, relaxing space in which to unwind with a glass of wine while surveying stunning vistas of Victoria Harbour and the city skyline.

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Re-imagined bedroom space was paramount to the airy layout

Moving from the elegance of the living area to the more private quarters, the main bedroom called for comprehensive restructuring and expansion. “In order to make best use of the space and balance the proportions of the room to serve the needs of the owner, the en-suite bathroom was enlarged, and the walls between the original master bedroom and cloakroom were torn down,” reveals Chiu.

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To start your morning routine in this sophistication!

The floors, walls and counters of the bathroom were completely redesigned with granite and Dornbracht fittings, while the bedroom was furbished to echo the opulent aesthetics of the living room. Aureate and metallic trims add a layer of depth here and provide contrast to the cool, airy tones that emanate from the abundant maple wood cladding and natural light spilling through dual-aspect windows. Breathtaking sea views stretch from the side of the bed to the back of the suite where the dressing room lies, shelved with a collection of Hermès accessories.

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Sunny mornings, guaranteed! 

But beyond the timeless beauty, resplendent décor and custom-made Italian furnishings, the apartment’s most impressive feature is surely the cutting-edge technology that elevates the day-to-day experience at home. Installing a smart living system has allowed the owner to possess full control of everyday electronics with ease and convenience. For example, switchable glass in the en-suite bathroom variously permits privacy when it is occupied, and affords more breathing room in the master chamber.

The consistent details that flow harmoniously from entryway to bedroom and everywhere else in between are somehow reminiscent of how one might trace the smooth ripples of satin on a glamorous gown: sumptuous to the touch and everlasting in impression – a true dream.

(Text: Roberliza Eugenio; Photos: Danny Chiu Interior Designs Ltd.)

1,992 sq.ft neutral home with natural light done right

While the Kowloon Peninsula doesn’t boast the breathtaking sea views or gorgeous coastline landscape of its southside island counterpart, to the surprise of many an area on its northwest edge hides a stunning retreat from the bustling paces of the frantic city.

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In one of the territory’s liveliest districts, a 1,992 sq.ft penthouse and rooftop was completely revamped to create a zen home for a young couple. Inspired by the minimalist approach of Scandinavian aesthetics, interior designer Keith Chan of local studio Hintegro blended simplicity with modern textures and soft hues, and adopted innovative solutions to optimise space where it was in short supply.
Since one of the homeowners is a graphic designer, it is no great surprise that the apartment demonstrates a good eye for colour and proportion.

Modern shades of green and contemporary wooden fixtures, panels and metallic details are prominent features throughout, with Chan skilfully reflecting the couple’s tastes while imparting a sustainable home lifestyle for their physical and emotional wellbeing – a value that is integral to his studio’s design ethos.

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The dining area commands attention from the moment one enters via the foyer. A Nagi dining table and bench in light cherry wood faces the stunning city view, with the large grill-less window not only offering uninterrupted views of Stonecutters Bridge and the Rambler Channel, but also allowing ample natural light to spill generously througout the room.

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Chan’s open layout plan allowed for a continual flow of sunlight and energy to spread across the living space. At one side, the room seamlessly connects to the kitchen. With an island counter doubling as a bar top, the kitchen area has been designed as a less formal dining spot and convivial space for guests to interact with the host. A white Silestone countertop adds a subtle touch of luxury alongside matching white wall cabinets that expand on the perception of space by reflecting light with their neutral tones.

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Other installations, meanwhile, provide a stark contrast to the lighter shades of the walls, including warm olive green hand-brushed cabinet doors, bar panels, and wall tiles by Living Ceramics and Mutina.
Functionality in tight spaces often sprouts versatility, especially in the kitchen where preparation, cooking and eating can demand ceaseless movement. For this reason, Hintegro brought a U-shaped layout to the kitchen while providing vertical storage, a wine fridge and Miele steam oven fitted perfectly into the white wall cabinets.

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Modular design and multi-functional spaces are further showcased in the living room, where a large balcony door – shaded delicately by sheer curtains – offers ample sunlight. Thanks to a sound system by Bowers & Wilkins, and a wall-mounted flat screen that blends in as part of the home décor, the homeowners and their guests can enjoy their entertainment in relaxing comfort.

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Further underscoring the apartment’s versatility, part of the lounge can be swiftly transformed into a guest bedroom by means of a sliding door featuring Japanese shikkui diatomaceous earth plastering, a zero- to low-VOC (volatile organic compound) alternative to more chemical-laden materials. Furnished with an ergonomically designed, custom-made, offset three-seater sofabed from Establo, which folds up with a comfy, curved backrest during the day, this lounge-cum-bedroom en-suite offers a cosy and private resting space for guests – complete with vertical shelving units for books and storage, and a contemporary Bouquet pendant lamp by Le Klint for illumination.

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Meanwhile, matte black metallic frames along the sides of the sliding door and columns accentuate the wooden wall panels, cabinets and floor, drawing perfect symmetry with the balcony and window frames.

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Moving towards more intimate spaces, the master bedroom is an expanded reconstruction of two rooms torn down to become one large bedroom en-suite. Amid Shikkui diatomaceous wall plastering, a matte black metal headboard highlights the bed as the focal point; situated next to an expansive window and a platform upon which a cup of morning brew might rest idyllically beside a novel.

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Given the couple’s love of movies and books, Chan and his team were careful to provide plentiful storage and shelving. These units add a modern yet elegant feature to the room, while a multitude of design books and magazines impart a sense of culture, art and character. For a home cinematic experience, a drop-down projector screen was installed into the ceiling, providing a convenient, space-saving solution for the couple’s nightly TV and movie fix.

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Just beyond, a study comprises a dual-sided work area of his-and-his personal spaces and two office chairs, the HÅG Capisco 8106 and one from Herman Miller Sayl.

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Even accessing the rooftop is a delight. From the foyer, massive vertical windows lead up to the top of the stairs in an enthralling highlight that evokes a sense of dreamy wonder and calm. Equipped with a sound system and a counter with sink and fridge, this outdoor space is perfect to host friends and families for an al-fresco lunch, sit-down dinner or a breezy get-together over cocktails. With green foliage adding a contrasting sense of nature to the busy Kowloon skyline, “this rooftop is truly a hidden gem within a concrete jungle,” says the designer.

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Given its location, the penthouse provides an ideal zen retreat from the chaos of urban life, while not diverging too far from the city. What it lacks in square footage, it makes up through cleverly designed modular, transformable rooms and open layouts. Large windows with their uninteruppted views welcome the first rays of the sun, elevating the spirits and the mood of its fortunate dwellers.

 

(Text: Roberliza Eugenio; Photos: Hintegro Ltd)

Pro tips to bust humidity in your Hong Kong apartment

No matter the time of year, relative humidity in Hong Kong is a sticky issue that is difficult to control. It’s particularly troublesome in the spring, and when the summer heat intensifies, humidity levels tend to soar to well above 80 percent. Even in autumn, when relative humidity hovers around 70 percent, life can be uncomfortable for you, your wardrobe and your prized possessions, so it’s crucial to take steps now to banish any unwanted moisture.

Increase air circulation by opening doors and windows to release trapped air

When the air becomes heavy with excess moisture, it can create condensation. As water vapours become liquid, surfaces mist up, clothes discolour and damaging dampness, with its inhospitable musty aroma, sets in. Without treatment or relief, condensation becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and mould can creep over walls, ceilings, floors and furniture. Many people may not be aware that airborne viruses also thrive in high humidity, causing respiratory issues and exacerbating allergies to the likes of pollen. But there’s hope among the encroaching damp and gloom; we have the means to control moisture at home.

Tip 1: Keep the dehumidifier going
Optimum humidity levels can depend on the weather, though for confined indoor spaces keeping within the 30 to 50 percent range is best – ideally 45 percent – which is a definite challenge for any Hong Kong home. The best prevention of the onset of condensation and its crippling effects is to equip the home with a dehumidifier or three. There’s a reason why the most discerning of fashion or sneaker collectors run a dehumidifier in their dressing room 24/7.

This is not some exaggerated method of preserving precious, delicate fabrics; it’s an essential moisture-control solution that enables you to maintain and monitor the humidity level of the room. As moisture-laden air is drawn in, condensation collects in the machine and not on your surfaces. As well as keeping the environment dry, dehumidifiers discourage the build-up of bacteria, mould and viruses, thus preserving the good condition of that stylish décor, furniture and home accessories.

Acrylic paints or vinyl coated wallpapers are resistant to flaking or cracking, and can withstand moisture and direct sunlight

Tip 2: Coat the walls with anti-condensation paint
Condensation occurs when hot, moist air meets cold, dry surfaces. This is often seen in the form of water droplets on walls, ceilings and glass windows, and if left untreated, the accumulation of moisture opens the door to mould. As a solution, anti-condensation paint made from acrylic can be used to add a protective layer of insulation to each room, ensuring cold walls and dry ceilings.

In contrast to oil- and water-based paint, acrylic paint is resistant to high levels of moisture, shielding walls and ceilings with a water-proof mask. Its inherent properties are also rugged enough to withstand blistering, flaking or cracking from extensive sunlight exposure, so this protective coat can combat the unpredictable nature of our rain-or-shine climate. For those who like to dress rooms with wallpaper, vinyl wall panels offer a protective barrier against any moisture accumulation and dampness within the concrete.

Tip 3: Air conditioners help cool down the room
Regulating the temperature of the home also plays a huge role in controlling relative humidity and the build up of moisture. Customised insulation systems are rare in Hong Kong homes, especially in high-rise flats, since the winter is neither long nor harsh enough to require regular central heating. Instead, temperature control generally kicks in during the summer, with air conditioning used to cool rooms and make hot, humid months bearable.

Humidity occurs in the presence of hot air since it absorbs more moisture than cooler air, which is typically too dense to hold it. To put it simply, the hotter the air in contrast to the temperature of a room’s surfaces, the more moisture is collected, and the greater the danger of condensation. While using air conditioning may not win any environmental awards, it will surely boost your internal battle with dampness.
Properly ventilate heated and wet areas to relieve condensation in the rooms

Tip 4: Keep clean air circulating
There is another effortless yet more natural and sustainable way to combat humidity, and one that won’t rack up an eye-watering electricity bill at the end of the month. Simply opening windows and doors enables the recycling of stale, hot air and its replacement with cooler, fresh air. Strategically placed electric fans can also help with cross ventilation, increasing air circulation without inflating your household bills to such an extent.

Keeping the air moving in hotter and wetter rooms like the kitchen and bathroom may be tricky. These spaces are not usually blessed with large windows and are positioned in less favourable areas of the home, away from the natural flow of air. Higher humidity is to be expected here due to trapped heat and moisture from daily activities such as cooking and bathing. Installing a powerful exhaust fan is therefore key to blow out the hot and welcome the cool air.

Place moisture-absorbent plants to reduce humidity

Tip 5: Stock up on succulents and desiccants
In a boon for plant-parents and those who enjoy exercising their green thumbs, greenery such as Boston ferns, ivy, spider plant, and flora like lilies and orchids, to name a few, are great at absorbing moisture, and thus serve as natural, sustainable dehumidifiers for the home. Succulents and cacti are also adept at soaking up water through their leaves.

Storage areas like closets and rooms with wooden furniture and cabinets need sufficient circulation to release stagnant air, which can become a breeding ground for dust, bacteria and spores that eventually transform into mould and mildew. Going green may not work here, so either use a dehumidifier and open windows (if that’s an option) and doors whenever possible, or use desiccant materials such as packets of silica gel, bauxite, calcium sulphate and montmorillonite clay to maintain dryness and avoid the onset of condensation.

Protect carpets and hardwood furniture with regular cleaning and keeping them away from direct sunlight

Tip 6: Protect carpets and hardwood furniture
Avoiding the use of carpets and wooden furniture in densely humid areas is a wise choice to make, but if their decorative appeal proves stronger than the threat of mould at home, then it is essential to protect these vulnerable furnishings with some mindful arrangements. Prevent your precious hardwood furniture from the ravages of moisture and damp by not placing pieces directly in front of windows and heat conductors that will increase their temperature, leaving them at the mercy of condensation. Stop the rot before it has a chance to set in.

As for carpeting, professional companies can be hired for specialised cleaning to prevent bacteria, dust or spores from developing into mould when humidity levels soar. Taking these careful precautions during the drier autumn and winter months will make your home safer and more comfortable come spring and summer.