JJ8: Hong Kong's Premier Chinese 8-Ball Center

Featuring over 20 tables, JJ8 creatively combines traditional snooker with the popular Chinese 8-ball variant. Guests are invited to enjoy a variety of amenities, including a restaurant, a stylish bar with LED sports viewing screens, darts, private VIP rooms, and exhibitions of memorabilia from seven-time world champion Ronnie O'Sullivan.

Designer Ian Hau shared insights into the project, stating, "Our goal was to create a space that not only serves as a sports venue but also embodies a lifestyle—a place where people can connect and enjoy themselves." The design achieves a perfect balance between contemporary sleekness and playful character.

A neutral palette of grey tones and steel finishes dominates the main hall, providing a clean and modern backdrop. Hau explains, "We wanted the space to feel open and inviting, while still retaining a sense of sophistication." Striking accents, such as sculptural acoustic walls in the private rooms and a vibrant blue glass light feature above the bar, add visual interest and depth. "These elements are not just decorative; they tell a story about the sport and its culture," he adds.

With approximately 50 million players worldwide, the sport is thriving, particularly in China, where the number of snooker halls has skyrocketed from 34,000 in 2005 to an impressive 300,000 today. Hau notes, "Chinese 8-ball is more than just a game; it's a cultural phenomenon that brings people together."

The game itself merges elements of 8-ball, snooker, and 9-ball, played on a 9-foot table with tight pockets and American pool balls, ensuring that every match is an exhilarating challenge. "At JJ8, we aim to create an experience that excites both seasoned players and newcomers alike," Hau concludes.

With its innovative design and vibrant atmosphere, JJ8 is set to become a destination for snooker enthusiasts and socialites in Hong Kong.