Hostel in the City

Hostel in the City: A New Chapter for Hong Kong Real Estate
With the launch of the “Hostel in the City” scheme on July 22, 2025, Hong Kong is set for a transformative shift in its urban landscape. This government initiative opens the door for underutilized commercial buildings to be repurposed into much-needed student hostels.
For property owners, this presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—but one that requires strategic investment and expertise. Converting a commercial property into a residential facility is a complex process. It demands:
·        Careful space planning and structural assessment
·        Upgrading plumbing distribution networks
·        Enhanced fire protection and life safety systems
·        Improved security measures
·        Energy-efficient air conditioning and ventilation
·        Modernized electrical infrastructure
Before design or construction can begin, an architect must be appointed as project lead with the help of building service engineers to evaluate the building’s existing conditions—structural integrity, sprinkler and alarm systems, electrical load, plumbing capacity, and HVAC performance. To ensure the hostel is efficient, comfortable, and sustainable, an interior designer should also be engaged early to coordinate closely with the architect and engineering consultants.
The conversion process typically involves three key stages:
1.     Feasibility Study – assessing the architectural, interior, structural, and engineering viability of the building.
2.     Building Services Upgrade – estimating the costs of essential infrastructure improvements.
3.     Interior Fit-Out – planning and budgeting for functional, student-friendly spaces.
Ultimately, the study measures capital outlay against projected income, determining the project’s ROI. When the balance is favorable, these conversions can prove not only feasible, but also highly lucrative.
At Towner + Partners Studio, we are a multidisciplinary design practice staffed with licensed architects, Authorized Persons (APs), and experienced interior designers specializing in A&A and building conversion projects. In the past, our team has successfully collaborated with leading global property management firms, including Knight Frank Global, JLL, and Savills. If you are considering converting your building into a student hostel, we would be delighted to guide you through the process.