The buzz: No longer the forgettable walkway connecting Admiralty MTR station to Pacific Place, what used to be a hodgepodge of local stores on the first floor of Queensway Plaza has now been transformed by OIS Realty (a property management arm of The Lane Crawford Joyce Group) into Lab Concept, which brings together a colorful and adventurous selection of women’s fashion, beauty and lifestyle brands from all over the world. In addition to stocking the latest brands, the self-styled “fashion playground” includes a beauty concierge, where you can drop by and get a quickie skincare and makeup consultation.

The décor: We were expecting it to look a bit edgier, but we’re just nit picking here. The white floors and counters are effective in drawing your attention to the goodies, and the good lighting makes it all too tempting to whip out your phone and take a few snaps.

The goods: For a bit of “fast shopping,” Lab Concept has an innovative vending machine that is stocked with American Apparel tank tops. Then, check out “shoespace,” where you can pick up anything from a pair of Doc Martens to some statement-making heels from Pedro Garcia. Food-wise, a Simplylife café has opened, with more F&B outlets set to open in the coming months.

By Belinda Huang