Savoring the outdoors in Hong Kong in your own slice of heaven

Densely packed Hong Kong is renowned as a ‘skyscraper city’. Lofty towers dominate the city’s famed skyline and provide a stunning panorama for enthusiastic shutterbugs. On first appearances, it may seem that Hong Kong sorely lacks outdoor spaces but in reality many apartments in this exciting city feature balconies or even terraces and rooftops, much coveted living spaces that help to enhance the profile of the dwelling immensely.

If you are one of the lucky souls, fortunate enough to snag such an abode, then you can easily customize it to make it your personal outdoor sanctuary in the midst of the bustling city.

Deck out with all-weather furniture

Rattan furniture has long been the choice for décor of outdoor spaces including decks, terraces, and rooftops. However, in recent years designers have been replacing all-natural rattan furniture with more durable resin rattan. Resin rattan furniture is just as comfy as natural rattan and fares better under Hong Kong’s constantly changing weather conditions.

Awaken your green thumb

If you own your rooftop or terrace, consider creating a rooftop garden or a green lawn. If that’s not feasible, then head to Mong Kok’s famous Flower Market to stock up on pots of flowering plants and perennials. You could also consider planting tall bamboo or clambering vines or even installing a vertical garden. Plants not only beautify the environs they also help to purify the atmosphere.

Illuminate your space

Once you have your furniture and your greenery, you need to think about lighting your space so you can use it as a refuge at the end of a hectic workday when all you want to do is curl up in a comfy chair with a book or your kindle. Hong Kong’s many home décor stores like IKEA, outlets in Horizon Plaza and Home Square in Shatin offer a plethora of lighting choices for all kinds of living environments including terraces and rooftops.

Get in the shade

Hong Kong’s summers are bright and sunny and during these times you will perhaps be tempted to make maximum use of your ‘outdoor space'. To shield yourself from the merciless sun’s rays you might want to consider installing a rooftop pergola or awning (even a temporary one). Do make sure you get the necessary clearance from the Hong Kong’s Buildings Department if you are considering erecting a more permanent structure.

Take your kitchen outdoors

Hong Kongers love barbecues, and most of the city’s public outdoor spaces have facilities for barbecues. Why not set up an electric barbecue grill on your rooftop and invite friends over to dine under the stars? Sure beats being trapped in a small, stuffy, sweltering kitchen.

Having an outdoor space for your private use is a boon in crowded Hong Kong. So if you are one of the lucky ones who has access to one, do ensure you enjoy it to the fullest.