Co-working Spaces Never work alone again
Dim Sum Labs Dim Sum Labs has been the birthplace of various quirky inventions of late. It’s run as a “hackerspace,” offering a workspace for those working in the IT and computing fields, as well as science and digital and electronic art. Resources available include electronics parts, networking gear, a RepRap 3D printer, a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine as well as a soldering kit. Dim Sum Labs also offers regular workshops for members, including CNC milling and beginner’s programming. Associate memberships are $150 per month; full memberships, $500 per month; and an annual membership will set you back $5,000. 4/F, 100 Jervois St., Sheung Wan, www.dimsumlabs.com The Crafties
Hong Kong Commons permanent work space, you can get a dedicated desk—under Hong Kong Commons—for $2,500 per month. For locations see Hong Kong Commons (right), 3563-9201, boot.hk
Cocoon
Cocoon
BootHK BootHK is a co-working space for professionals to meet, work or socialize. It places a strong emphasis on startup ventures and the entrepreneur community. The organization has two branches: one in Sheung Wan and the other in Cheung Sha Wan. In the spirit of working collaboratively, the former shares a space with Hong Kong Commons, another co-working space. BootHK hosts regular meetings, with discussions and lectures on various business and entrepreneurial-related topics, as well as networking events. The daily rate is $100, and seating is first-come, first-served. For $500, users can have a workspace for 12 business days; for $1,000, you can get a month’s unlimited access; and finally, for a more
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Cocoon is an incubator-type space that prioritizes eco-friendliness and social responsibility. “Cocoonians” —early stage entrepreneurs—can find mentorship and resources from Entrepreneurs in Residence: hired, experienced industry experts. Keeping in mind the eco- and socially-conscious theme, the 14,000 square feet of open space looks more like a mini-golf range than an office. In addition to a library, lockers, conference rooms, huge worktables, and a photography studio, it has—wait for it—foosball and ping pong tables. Beer pong, anyone? Pitch Nights are held once a month, in which members pitch ideas and network with investors… and maybe play some foosball afterwards. Nothing like some networking through the medium of tiny skewered people kicking tiny plastic balls. You can get a six-day-a week membership for $2,000 a month. 3/F, Citicorp Centre, 18 Whitfield Rd., Causeway Bay, 3158-2999, www.hkcocoon.org
Hong Kong Commons is open to entrepeneurs, start-up ventures and professionals who are seeking affordable workspaces. Members can rent a desk or suite for a reasonable amount. Occupying three floors at its Sheung Wan location, Hong Kong Commons also has a second branch in Lai Chi Kok. Both spaces are equipped with working areas, office suites and conference rooms, as well as a secretary service. If you’re looking to start a website, it provides free consultations, and if you decide to go further with the project, there are designers, programmers, SEO specialists and the like to help. Dedicated workspaces start at $1,600 per month, and suites start at $5,500. Two locations: 25/F, Workington Tower, 78 Bonham Strand, Sheung Wan, 3563-9201; Suite 901, Kwong Loong Tai Building, 1016-1018 Tai Nan West St., Cheung Sha Wan, 3563-9215, hkcommons.com
Innovation Lab An 8,000-square-foot co-working space in Kennedy Town, Innovation Lab boasts seven private offices, as well as sizeable communal and meeting spaces. There are several memberships available: for $2,000 a month, you can use the space one day per week with a maximum of