Celebrity Life

Christine Hau is a co-founder of the Hong Kong-based architecture and design practice Lead8, which in just seven years has rocketed from start-up to the ranks of the world's leading firms. She tells us about its remarkable success and her own contribution towards it.

For an architectural firm founded just seven years ago to vault into the ranks of the world’s largest practices seems an achievement so remarkable that it’s frankly unbelievable. Yet that’s exactly the feat that Lead8 – a Hong Kong-based architecture, urban-masterplanning, interior-design, graphics and branding company that set up shop in a modest Quarry Bay studio in 2014 and now has offices in Shenzhen, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and London – has managed to pull off.

Not only does it currently rank in 53rd place among the globe’s leading architectural firms – with major projects ongoing in the Greater Bay Area as well as further afield, and a team of more than 250 in five locations around the world – but Lead8 also walked away with five 2021-22 Asia-Pacific Property Awards for its large-scale projects in Shenzhen, Nanjing and Chengdu, as well as a pair of Gold Stevie Awards recognising business excellence. Although continually engaged in the visionary exercise of re-imagining urban and interior living for a future that seems especially challenging, surely such an astonishing degree of success must have been beyond the wildest dreams of the company’s founding partners?

“When we set up Lead8, we’d already worked alongside each other for many years, and we shared a passion for creativity and excellence in design,” says Christine Hau, one of Lead8’s co-founders and executive directors who form the company’s global leadership team in Hong Kong. “We all wanted to bring about change, introduce new ideas to the industry and give back to our cities and communities through resilient, meaningful and impactful design. Setting up Lead8 gave us the platform to do that, so this has been a natural progression for us.”

At Lead8, Hau oversees the company’s business, financial, legal and operational sides, as well as leading its marketing, communications, branding and social responsibility activities. Born in Britain and one of the eldest daughters of constantly travelling parents from Hong Kong, her businessman father expected she’d work as his apprentice until an interest in design spurred her to study in that area, later combining it with management.

“You can put on a nice dress or jacket and it’s individual,” says the effervescent and engaging Hau, in an accent that bears no discernible traces of her Scottish birthplace, “but I feel building design – architecture and interiors – is for everyone. I’m captivated by the beauty of forms and details in buildings and cities, so I studied subjects that united my passion for design with my affinity for business – with business providing the means of turning creative visions into reality.”

After completing university, she began her career in the UK, and eventually made the decision to head to Hong Kong. It wasn’t simply a matter of having strong family ties here; she also felt this was a place where she could take her career to a new level and possibly a new direction. “This is a fast-paced place and an international hub, where there are opportunities both here in Asia as well as connections with the West.”

In any case, Hau was already accustomed to an international way of life. “We moved around and travelled a lot,” she says, “so my childhood was quite adventurous and exciting – a mix of cultures and experiences – which is partly why I’ve always believed we should explore opportunities as we go along.

“Learning isn’t just about formal education and books. Experience is also very important in life, which is how I’ve brought up my children. It also probably explains why I’ve persistently changed course in life, grasping opportunities to study and change direction.”

After spending time at other international design practices, where she gained further experience in areas such as finance, corporate law and governance, strategy and operations, Hau took the plunge and joined a group of architects and designers she’d worked closely with to found Lead8. The team moved into its first studio in Shipyard Lane, literally around the corner from the much-expanded premises on King’s Road that the company occupies now. “The move into this new studio was a defining moment for us,” she says. “It marked a step in our evolution from start-up to international design brand and set the scene for our next chapter.”

While the company’s meteoric growth is beyond impressive, it must surely have something to do with the sheer physical scale and breathtakingly imaginative reach of many of its projects, in which every detail – from the macro to the micro – is considered, and natural elements and the latest technologies both form integral parts. Yet for all the size and scope, Hau insists that much of Lead8’s work is underpinned by “design that understands people – and the urge to push the boundaries to deliver destinations and experiences unlike any other” in their respective locations.

Typifying this approach is the vast Hubei Coordination Urban Renewal Scheme in Shenzhen, due for completion in 2024, which conserves and protects a historic 500-year-old village, yet does so in the context of a dazzling and forward-looking 21st-century urban development. Another major undertaking in the Greater Bay Area is New World’s 11 SKIES at Chek Lap Kok, which will be Hong Kong’s largest hub for retail, dining and entertainment, in a development adjoining the airport terminals, along with grade-A office towers, immersive educational experiences and even an indoor/outdoor karting track.

For sheer imaginative bravura, however, it’s hard to beat HarbourLoop, a Lead8 social-responsibility case study that proposes a 23km-long walkway and cycle track encircling Hong Kong’s Victoria Harbour, with two elegant infrastructure additions linking the two sides and a series of community, culture and commuter hubs along the way. “We did it to show the possibilities of urban design thinking for Hong Kong – a zero-carbon network that unites both sides of the harbour,” says Hau. “As a design firm, we’re in the fortunate position of driving and sparking conversations about the future, which is what influences change.”

As for her own role within the firm, Hau says she uses design thinking to inform the way she oversees Lead8’s business, financial, legal and operational activities. “It offers me and my team the opportunity to manage and build a design firm differently, and to help our team of designers do what they do best – which is to create designs that are positively giving back to our communities. We create the platforms on which our global team and operations can function, and we nurture, support and empower our teams – we’re passionate about our people.”

Asked about her experiences as a female in her industry, Hau says she believes that “when it comes to work, women have traditionally been conscious of their gender, but this is changing – and I see the younger generation of women and men active in this shift. But I’ve always had strong female leaders in the industry to look up to and my own experience has been that gender hasn’t limited my opportunities.

“No matter what your gender is, leadership is about more than just being a boss. It’s inspiring, motivating and empowering those around you. Just as design inherently gives back to the cities and communities it touches, at Lead8 we have a deep commitment to the next generations through mentoring and learning opportunities, and we’re equally dedicated to supporting causes that help to build a brighter world.”

And if you were wondering how – with eight projects nearing completion in the next year and several more about to kick off – this working mother manages to find equilibrium between office and home, Hau says there’s always a connection between work and life. “I’m fortunate to have a supportive circle of family and friends, which helps ease the pressure in challenging times. In any case, instead of separating, I prefer to balance these parts of my life, as I’m passionate about Lead8 and the firm we’ve created. Each day is different – and I don’t count the hours at work, but the results we’ve achieved.”

PHOTOGRAPHY KINWAI CHEUNG
STYLING TASHA LING
MAKE-UP KAREN YIU @MAKEUPBEES
HAIR GLOOMY KWOK @MAKEUPBEES
PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT STEPHEN CHENG

The post Sauvereign’s Bertrand Mak on Watch Collecting and Building a Legacy appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Having two young children at home, Christmas is a big occasion in our household. We'd usually celebrate the holidays in the US but this year, as many families are, we're staying put. We've dusted the Christmas decorations and lights and they're all decked and lit up. And as is our tradition, we'd have the girls make a wish list and it's worked wonderfully so far. One would argue it ruins the element of surprise but these days, I'd much rather get them gifts they really want. Interestingly, I've never really thought of making one myself, nor has it ever been suggested - note to the hubby . So it was a delight making my 2020 Christmas wish list, which contained just that right amount of bling, items that are practical - and not quite so, as well a few things I came across I'd also love to gift the special people in my life.

Sauvereign

You got me at bespoke. Formerly R. Sanderson, Sauvereign provides a different retail experience where you can customise your shoes and in this case, your bag. My favourite feature? The “GEM” which you can pick to your preference to be used as the buckle that features a gold leaf - in real gold, mind you - intertwined with colours and dashed with gold powder. 

Van Cleef & Arpels

The French maison had just released its new Winter collection called Rose de Noël, which is ultra-feminine and dainty but can totally rock a jeans and white T-shirt ensemble. Crafted in n yellow gold, white mother-of-pearl and diamonds this pair can easily be your everyday go-to accessory.

Hermès

I’ve always preferred dressing in block colours, and often in dark shades so what better way to get a pop of colour than with this Hermès silk Exposition Universelle scarf designed by Jan Bajtlik. Surely it’s a fine, pastel-perfect accessory I’d love to get this Christmas.

Bvlgari

I saw this Bvlgari Serpenti diamond ring on a friend and it was quite a sight. I could not tear my eyes from it and I instantly knew it was gonna make it to my 2020 Christmas wish list. I suppose with anything Bulgari, that is always the point, is it? While it’s definitely a bold piece, it’s one you can pull off wearing casual clothes, and of course, needless to say also be perfect for that fancy night out. I also like that the ring has several articulations that make it expandable and really comfortable to wear.

Montblanc

I’m old school and still prefer jotting things down so I’ve included in my wish list Montblanc’s notebook with the Heritage Egyptomania cover - will you look at that brilliant colour combination - which is made with calfskin Saffiano leather and digital print pattern.

H. Moser & Cie

While I’m usually partial to watches that fit my wrist to a T, I will make an exception for H. Moser & Cie’s Streamliner watch. The watch is every bit sleek, reminiscent of 1920s locomotive designs. Its minimalist and steely appearance is nicely countered by the Funky Blue fumé dial.

Tiffany & Co

I don’t have a dog, not yet anyway, but I have many friends that do so when I came across this Tiffany & Co suite of dog accessories, which includes a leather pet collar, bowl in bone china, and a collar charm, I couldn’t help get that furry feeling.

Louis Vuitton

These Louis Vuitton Vivienne 4 Seasons goblets made from white porcelain and painted with LV’s Vivienne mascots in different locations around the world is just something I’d love to have on the table setting - and isn’t the silver-colour rim detail such a classy touch?

Dior

And for my 7-year-old girl who loves anything and everything feminine, who has included in her wish list "high heel shoos" this pair of Dior patent calfskin Miss B ballet flats with a woven ribbon is just perfect. I can imagine it will look just as gorgeous with one of her puffy party dresses or with trousers matched with a dainty pea coat.

Cartier

To keep my work desk organised but still decorative - and festive, I'd love this Cartier Panthère de Cartier trinket tray, where I can stash everything from my Airpod case, pens, loose change and accessories.

Lalique

Having a full household, there is almost always cooking going on so we usually have scented candles lit to counter the smell, and indeed, it's just such a wonderful, relaxing aroma to linger about so this Lalique La Nuit candle caught my fancy and definitely deserves a spot in my 2020 Christmas wish list, and it burns for as long as 60 hours. And it certainly does not hurt that it looks beautiful on the coffee table next to your books and ornaments.

The post 2020 Christmas Wish Lists: Charlene’s Picks appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.

Having two young children at home, Christmas is a big occasion in our household. We'd usually celebrate the holidays in the US but this year, as many families are, we're staying put. We've dusted the Christmas decorations and lights and they're all decked and lit up. And as is our tradition, we'd have the girls make a wish list and it's worked wonderfully so far. One would argue it ruins the element of surprise but these days, I'd much rather get them gifts they really want. Interestingly, I've never really thought of making one myself, nor has it ever been suggested - note to the hubby . So it was a delight making my 2020 Christmas wish list, which contained just that right amount of bling, items that are practical - and not quite so, as well a few things I came across I'd also love to gift the special people in my life.

Sauvereign

You got me at bespoke. Formerly R. Sanderson, Sauvereign provides a different retail experience where you can customise your shoes and in this case, your bag. My favourite feature? The “GEM” which you can pick to your preference to be used as the buckle that features a gold leaf - in real gold, mind you - intertwined with colours and dashed with gold powder. 

Van Cleef & Arpels

The French maison had just released its new Winter collection called Rose de Noël, which is ultra-feminine and dainty but can totally rock a jeans and white T-shirt ensemble. Crafted in n yellow gold, white mother-of-pearl and diamonds this pair can easily be your everyday go-to accessory.

Hermès

I’ve always preferred dressing in block colours, and often in dark shades so what better way to get a pop of colour than with this Hermès silk Exposition Universelle scarf designed by Jan Bajtlik. Surely it’s a fine, pastel-perfect accessory I’d love to get this Christmas.

Bvlgari

I saw this Bvlgari Serpenti diamond ring on a friend and it was quite a sight. I could not tear my eyes from it and I instantly knew it was gonna make it to my 2020 Christmas wish list. I suppose with anything Bulgari, that is always the point, is it? While it’s definitely a bold piece, it’s one you can pull off wearing casual clothes, and of course, needless to say also be perfect for that fancy night out. I also like that the ring has several articulations that make it expandable and really comfortable to wear.

Montblanc

I’m old school and still prefer jotting things down so I’ve included in my wish list Montblanc’s notebook with the Heritage Egyptomania cover - will you look at that brilliant colour combination - which is made with calfskin Saffiano leather and digital print pattern.

H. Moser & Cie

While I’m usually partial to watches that fit my wrist to a T, I will make an exception for H. Moser & Cie’s Streamliner watch. The watch is every bit sleek, reminiscent of 1920s locomotive designs. Its minimalist and steely appearance is nicely countered by the Funky Blue fumé dial.

Tiffany & Co

I don’t have a dog, not yet anyway, but I have many friends that do so when I came across this Tiffany & Co suite of dog accessories, which includes a leather pet collar, bowl in bone china, and a collar charm, I couldn’t help get that furry feeling.

Louis Vuitton

These Louis Vuitton Vivienne 4 Seasons goblets made from white porcelain and painted with LV’s Vivienne mascots in different locations around the world is just something I’d love to have on the table setting - and isn’t the silver-colour rim detail such a classy touch?

Dior

And for my 7-year-old girl who loves anything and everything feminine, who has included in her wish list "high heel shoos" this pair of Dior patent calfskin Miss B ballet flats with a woven ribbon is just perfect. I can imagine it will look just as gorgeous with one of her puffy party dresses or with trousers matched with a dainty pea coat.

Cartier

To keep my work desk organised but still decorative - and festive, I'd love this Cartier Panthère de Cartier trinket tray, where I can stash everything from my Airpod case, pens, loose change and accessories.

Lalique

Having a full household, there is almost always cooking going on so we usually have scented candles lit to counter the smell, and indeed, it's just such a wonderful, relaxing aroma to linger about so this Lalique La Nuit candle caught my fancy and definitely deserves a spot in my 2020 Christmas wish list, and it burns for as long as 60 hours. And it certainly does not hurt that it looks beautiful on the coffee table next to your books and ornaments.

The post 2020 Christmas Wish Lists: Charlene’s Picks appeared first on Prestige Online - Hong Kong.