By: Melissa Stevens
If you’re a start-up or a small business, then a co-working space could be a great option. We checked out the operations of theDesk co-working space at its One Hysan Avenue location in Causeway Bay to see what’s on offer.
How it works
One of the newer and fastest growing players on the co-working scene, theDesk opened in mid-2016. It offers flexible hot desk, dedicated desk and private office packages. There are three locations, the original site in Sai Wan, plus two in Causeway Bay – a newly opened 15,000-square- foot space in the Leighton Centre, and a more intimate boutique space at One Hysan Avenue. There’s free Wi-Fi, meeting rooms, as well as administrative services such as printing, a postal address and service, and even business registration support. theDesk also has a range of strategies, such as having regular social events for networking and information sharing, to draw the community closer.
First impressions
Walking into the space at One Hysan Avenue, you’re greeted by front counter staff who straight away give an impression that’s friendly yet professional; if you’re a small business owner who needs a place to take meetings, this is a big plus. Just past reception is a lounge area with games where you can chill, or sit and chat with colleagues or visitors. There’s also a lovely terrace area where you can enjoy the sunshine while doing the same. The hot desking area is also here, next to phone booths where you can have privacy while you chat, and lockers to store your things to avoid having to cart your laptop around. There are dedicated private meeting rooms that you can book if you want to bring clients or contacts in for meetings, or just have a team meeting. The rest of the space is taken up with dedicated office spaces of varying sizes that can be used by businesses looking for longer-term, yet still flexible, options.
What we loved
Being a sole or small operator can sometimes be isolating, but theDesk automatically connects you with a network of inspiring entrepreneurs. There are regular activities, such as Tuesday Treats and Wine Down Fridays, where users are encouraged to stop and enjoy afternoon tea or a drink together, as well as a weekly yoga session. Other networking events are held to actively promote a culture of support and the exchanging of ideas for the community of enterprises and entrepreneurs who use the facilities.
The many flexible options available at theDesk is also part of the appeal. You can even get an hourly Power Pass if you don’t need a regular desk space but want to be able to drop in if you’re between meetings. This is good for sole operators who don’t want to be locked into long-term commitments.
And did we mention the coffee? As any bootstrapping start-up entrepreneur will tell you, caffeine fuels many a small business! Part of a membership entitles you to enjoy coffee, soft drinks and beer in the kitchen facilities available to members!
Find out more about membership and pricing at thedesk.com.hk
Read more about working in Hong Kong in our Work and Business section:
