PRC Magazine #101 (Architecture | Building | Construction) by ROF Media

2020 Issue 101

Pacific Rim Construction

Hong Kong / PRC $60

Building a future on the foundations of the past

Inside: Taiwan’s JC Architecture wins World Interior of the Year Elena Galli Giallini transforms huge Shanghai retail mall Introducing new channels: IlluminateAsia and HH21 Online readers’ poll selects the Most Iconic Asian Projects Meeting Industry Influencers in the era of Social Media

ISSN 1684-1956 977168495009

101

Steampunk pavilion was built for the 5th edition of Tallinn Architecture Biennale (TAB 2019) in Estonia and will remain in place until the Biennale’s next edition in 2021. The plan of the pavilion is a cross that divides the grassy mound of the Biennial site into four distinct spaces that frame views towards the old city of Tallinn and the Architecture Museum.

Steampunk is a pavilion constructed from steambent hardwood using primitive hand tools augmented with the precision of intelligent holographic guides. The timber elements in the structure were fabricated utilising the notoriously difficult process of steam bending. Each strip was bagged, steamed and bent over an adaptable, moldless formwork using a holographic model as a reference to the desired result. The variable surface effects in the pavilion are a product of expediency, as bending three dimensional curves from straight 100x10mm boards forces the timber profile to twist along its length. Developed from natural oils and waxes, OSMO UV-Protection Oil Extra is ideal for all vertical wood surfaces in outdoor areas. The UV protection factor of 12 from only two coats effectively prevents the greying process without covering the attributes of a wood’s natural colour and character. As a top coat on already colour treated wood, it extends the intervals between renovation works significantly.

Contact Details: 220 Gloucester Road, Wanchai,Hong Kong Phone: (852) 2833 6069 Email: osmo@osmochina.com Website: www.osmo.com.hk

May - Jun 2020 Issue 101 FACEBOOK

INSTAGRAM

Cover photo: JCA Living Lab Photo by J.C. Architecture Grand Gateway 66, Shanghai

22 www.prc-magazine.com

42 www.rofmedia.com

Publisher: Mike Staley, publisher@rofmedia.com Editor: info@rofmedia.com Contributing Editor: Elizabeth Dooley Editorial Team: Bryan Chan • Derek Leung • Jasper Lau • Joe Wyatt • Krista Chan • Michael Hoare • Norman Yam • Richard Lee Business Development: Bryan Chan, bryan@rofmedia.com Tel: (852) 3150 8912 Sales Director: Mike Staley, mike@rofmedia.com Tel: (852) 3150 8989 Account Manager: Alfred Ng, alfred@rofmedia.com Tel: (852) 3150 8911 Sales Enquiries: yannie@rofmedia.com, sales@rofmedia.com Tel: (852) 3150 8988 Senior Graphic Designer: Ric Sin, studio@rofmedia.com Graphic Designer: Michelle Morkel Photographer: Brian Zhang Digital Media Coordinator: Jeffrey Ng Printing: DG3 Asia Ltd. PRC Magazine is published by Ring of Fire Ltd. 5/F Kong Ling Building, 102 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Tel: (852) 3150 8988 info@rofmedia.com www.rofmedia.com All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner, without the written consent of the publishers. All care is taken but accuracy of information rests with the client; the publisher bares no responsibility for any factual errors that may occur. The views expressed herein are not necessarily shared by PRC Magazine or its staff. © Copyright 2020 Ring of Fire Limited

8 PRESS

REVAMPED PEAK GALLERIA REVEALS AEDAS’ PEARL OF THE ORIENT ICON

The Peak Galleria has welcomed millions of travellers annually since 1992. Standing on Victoria Peak, visitors come to glimpse the view of Hong Kong, and the landmark shopping arcade offers a multi-sensory entertainment experience. Hang Lung Properties commissioned Aedas to renovate and modernise the property to deliver the “Pearl of the Orient”. After a 2.5-year redesign and construction, Peak Galleria re-opened last year, “bringing back the glory and glamour”, said Ed Lam, Aedas Executive Director. The plaza was revamped with glass and steel, adding lighting and triangular glass panels to capture the spirit

of a giant gemstone. The interior of the 23,397-m2 GFA space includes a new entrance, better wayfinding and a single-loop circulation. “You can see children playing, friends hanging out on the terrace and tourists acclaiming for the views on the observation deck,” said Lam. “The best refurbishment is to bring the building into life, returning space to the city and inviting people to visit and celebrates its new life.” www.aedas.com

AGIPLAST, ROYAL HONG KONG YACHT CLUB SET SAIL FOR YOUTH AMERICA’S CUP

HONG KONG’S TUEN MA METRO LINE TO HELP CUSHION FALLING HOUSE PRICES

Photo: MTRC

The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club will mount a challenge for the Youth America’s Cup, scheduled to be held this year and next in Auckland, New Zealand. A Hong Kong institution, the club will partner with Agiplast in this Youth America’s Cup endeavour. Agiplast regenerates plastics and has done so for more than 25 years. RHKYC Team Agiplast will be crewed by four sailors between the ages of 18 and 24, two women and two men, with a maximum crew weight of 311kgs. They will race a new class of foiling mono-hull, the AC9F. The Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club has a history dating back 170 years and has always had a focus on the future, nurturing the city’s youth and the sailors of tomorrow or doing its part for the environment with its sustainability initiatives. Agiplast is a plastic compound manufacturer and a world leader in polymer compounding and regeneration. www.rhkyc.org.hk

With Phase 1 of the Tuen Ma Line now open, expect to see firming prices for real estate in the adjacent areas, according to JLL’s Residential Market Monitor. The opening of the railway in February added transport options across the south-western New Territories, with connections at Hin Keng, Diamond Hill and Kai Tak. New railway infrastructure has historically spurred residential price growth and boosted demand for commercial amenities, JLL says. Residential prices in Whampoa increased by 21% in the year following the opening of the Kwun Tong line extension in 2016. Nelson Wong, Head of Research at JLL in Greater China and Hong Kong, forecast a fall in home prices of between 10% and 15% this year, but said prices nearest to the new line would benefit from the “MTR Effect”, with these districts “likely to hold up better than the broader market”. At least 3,000 units will come online this year at a project above Tai Wai station, jointly developed by New World Development and MTR Corp. www.jll.com

MORI BUILDING COMPLETES TOWER AT TORANOMON HILLS, A GATEWAY TO TOKYO

Leading developer Mori Building Co. Ltd has finished work on an office tower forming part of the Toranomon Hills expansion in central Tokyo. The Toranomon Hills Business Tower is a 36-storey building offering 96,000m2 of office space and 7,600m2 of shopping and dining. The office space from the 5th to the 36th floor features expansive pillarless layouts and full-height windows. Refreshment corners are provided in the common area on each floor, in a move to promote communication. The addition to the Toranomon Hills complex will facilitate its evolution into a new international hub and global business centre. The complex is positioned as a new “Gateway of Tokyo” thanks in part to the ARCH business incubation centre, a home for Japan’s unique innovation ecosystem, on the tower’s 4th floor. At the same site, Mori Building is working to complete the Toranomon Hills Residential Tower, a 54-storey building scheduled to be ready next January. It is also at work on the Toranomon Hills Station Tower, which has been co-developed with the Toranomon Hills station on the Hibiya subway line. Completion of this section of the development is planned for July 2023. Once complete, the entire Toranomon Hills mixed-use development will grow to 7.5ha and offer a total floor space of 800,000m2 in an international hub with an impact comparable to that of Mori Building’s Roppongi Hills. www.mori.co.jp/en

WOODS BAGOT TOPS OUT TWISTING TOWER FOR SUNSHINE INSURANCE IN BEIJING The Woods Bagot studio in Beijing has celebrated the topping out of the 42-storey, 205-m-tall Sunshine Insurance Financial Centre. Situated next to the China Media Group headquarters and China World Trade Centre, the ground-level podium takes inspiration from the bulbous lotus flower before reaching skyward in an elegant twisting form to an oval shape at its crown. The rotation through the mass of the building creates long-distance views for the highest offices in the building, and means the façade captures sunshine throughout the day. “The unique design strategy resolves the site’s limitations as we attempt to maximise the project’s value given a compact site area with other office towers nearby,” said Jean Weng, Woods Bagot’s China Director. With a 90,000m2 GFA, and comprising of offices, multi-function event space and business amenities, the tower is scheduled for completion in November. The project is seeking a LEED gold rating. www.woodsbagot.com

ZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS TO BUILD OPPO’S HEADQUARTERS IN SHENZHEN

EIGHT OPENS OFFICE IN JAPAN WITH TOSHIYUKI SANADA TO LEAD EXPANSION Eight Partnership has opened an office in Tokyo to serve its fast-growing client base in Japan. The office is headed by Toshiyuki Sanada, a design industry veteran who has experience with Mori Building and who recently headed the workplace design business of WeWork Japan. Sanada says there is growing demand from Japanese clients for international branding and design expertise. “The boom of inbound visitors, both travellers and investors, creates strong demand from clients to help them build international bridges,” Sanada says. Eight has a long list of successful projects in Japan. The Hong Kong-based branding and design firm has completed roles for Mori Building’s Toranomon Hills, brand strategy for the Hokkaido Fighters baseball city in Sapporo, hotel branding for Toyota and Hyatt, and a series of alpine resort projects in Niseko, Hokkaido. “We are very positive about the Japanese market,” says partner Chris Fjelddahl. “We see great opportunities to leverage Eight’s international platform to help our Japanese clients connect with Asia and the rest the world.” www.eightpartnership.com

OPPO’s new 185,000-m2 headquarters in Shenzhen will be built by Zaha Hadid Architects. ZHA won an international competition with a design conceived as four interconnected towers reaching a height of 42 floors. The design incorporates two towers of flexible, open-plan spaces linked by a 20-storey vertical lobby, and two external service towers providing vertical circulation. The towers maximise the views over Shenzhen Bay by tapering in at lower levels. Atrium spaces unite all occupants through visual connectivity, helping to foster collaboration between company departments. The abundance of natural light, varied working environments and diversity of routes for staff and visitors to move through the building are all conducive to creative engagement and spontaneity. A civic space will include a landscaped plaza, art gallery, shops, restaurants and a direct link to the adjacent station of Shenzhen’s subway network. OPPO launched their first phone in 2008 and have grown to become the world’s fifth biggest maker of smartphones. www.zaha-hadid.com

10 PRESS

RMJM SERBIA UNVEILS LATEST WORK AT MOSCOW SHEREMETYEVO AIRPORT

FIVE NEW OPENINGS PLANNED IN 2020 FOR ARCHITECT GATHY AND DENNISTON

Sheremetyevo International Airport’s Terminal C opened its doors to the public in January with an event attended by more than 700 people. The work by RMJM Serbia is inspired by early 20th century architecture, said lead architect Goran Nikolic. Russian Avant-garde techniques are visible throughout the terminal, both in the interior and exterior designs. Constructivist ideas are interpreted by modern media installations thanks to which passengers get an incredible impression of Russia, a country with a rich historical and cultural heritage. Space has been dedicated throughout the terminal for areas of foliage and water effects, to create a calming atmosphere, and every aspect of the design was focused on creating the smoothest possible passenger experience. From the moment people step off the plane, they experience Russian culture. The North Terminal Complex in which Terminal C resides handles more than 40 million passengers a year. www.rmjm.com

Architect and interior designer Jean-Michel Gathy has embarked on a programme that will see five openings of major hotel projects in the reminder of the year. The principal designer of Denniston, which he established in 1993, Gathy is the creator of some of the world’s most luxurious hotels including properties for Aman and Mandarin Oriental. Many of these works have revolutionised high-end travel and the tourism economy of countries. Among the projects Denniston or Gathy himself will launch this year are: the Four Seasons, Bangkok, in May; the Four Seasons, Tokyo, in June; One&Only, Montenegro, in July; Jumeirah, Bali, in summer; and Aman, New York, in December. Gathy’s Denniston practice has also been contracted as master planners on two game-changing projects in America and the Middle East that have not yet been announced. Gathy’s previous work includes Singapore’s largest rooftop infinity pool overlooking the city’s skyline at Marina Bay Sands, and an extravagant Gold Energy Pool at the St. Regis Lhasa. www.denniston.com.my

BURO HAPPOLD MAKES USE OF DATA AND DESIGN TO PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY

TO COMBAT CLIMATE CRISIS, NEW WORLD SETS OUT TO CHANGE FROM WITHIN Photo: Cultural entrepreneur Mr Adrian Cheng initiated a cross-sector and cross-generational dialogue for sustainability with Hong Kong’s Mr Lance Lau, the 10-year-old climate activist on “Sustainability Forum 2020: Activating Change”

More than 1.25 million people are killed in traffic accidents each year, and more than half of that number are not inside a vehicle. Beneath the tip of this “Injury Iceberg” are countless near misses and close calls. To reduce the number of incidents, cities around the world are adopting Vision Zero policies to rethink road safety. The initiative focuses on understanding the behaviour of drivers before crashes occur by analysing GPS data. Buro Happold has collaborated with Zendrive to create a system that analyses driving data to identify patterns and trends. An app called Smartviz then provides quick insights into a large and otherwise hard-to-read set of data. In another piece of engineering innovation, Buro Happold created a new digital advertising space at a key junction on the West Cromwell Road in West London.The striking landmark replaced a standard screen with a stunning Zaha Hadid-designed structure that is 30m long and 9m wide, incorporating a curved digital screen surrounded by two flowing ribbons of matt stainless steel. Buro Happold associate director Michael Keverne said the build took just over one year with civil, structural and lighting elements involved in the project. Buro Happold’s engineers and lighting design experts worked closely with Zaha Hadid Architects to deliver “The Kensington” for JCDecaux. www.burohappold.com

The Culture for Tomorrow non-profit organisation founded by New World Development executive vice-chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Cheng, has hosted a forum to help Photo: K11 ATELIER King’s Road is equipped with the largest hybrid Photovoltaic & Thermal (PVT) Panel in Asia find solutions to climate change. The and Australia at 220m². co-generating both electricity and Sustainability Forum 2020: Activating hot water, contributing 1.3% of total building energy use or 70,000kWh energy per year Change in a New World Order hoped to create collaborative action in architectural innovation and to offer holistic solutions to build businesses and communities. A forum was held at the triple-platinum-certified green K11 Atelier King’s Road, which brought together more than 30 experts, academics and business leaders for an in-depth discussion on climate change and sustainability. “We recognise that sustainability is, and must remain, a top business priority for the Group if we are to be in a position to create shared value and provide longterm benefits for our shareholders and other stakeholders in the community,” Cheng said. New World Development references the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals to standardise property development and management practices, and to establish targets such as carbon intensity reduction by half based on 2015 levels. www.nwd.com.hk

CIC Carbon Assessment Tool

We are very pleased to introduce to you the first industry-wide Carbon Assessment Tool (CAT) in Hong Kong. The CAT serves as a practical tool for new buildings and infrastructures to evaluate their carbon performance at the design and construction stage. Construction Industry Council (CIC) with the help of Cundall, developed this publicly available tool as part of their wider sustainability strategy. The CAT will drive the industry forward on the decarbonisation journey and facilitate the industry to maximise the potential carbon savings.

Some of the key features of the CAT:

Incorporates 300 localised emission factors for Hong Kong

Development of the tool involved 200 stakeholders from across the industry

Designed to assess the cradle-to-site LCA following ISO14040 principles

Responsive web design for easy data logging and powerful result visualisation

Integration into BEAM Plus and CEEQUAL (Coming soon)

Engaged 100 pilot projects from public and private sectors

Visit www.cat.cic.hk

to discover the tool.

Developed by:

12 PRESS

IN CONNECTING TAIPEI’S OLD AND NEW, J.C. ARCHITECTURE CUTS THE CORNER

DECIBEL SIGNS ON TO BUILD A LANDMARK IN HO CHI MINH CITY’S SOUTHERN HEART Decibel Architecture has won an international competition to build a new landmark tower in Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City. Construction and development conglomerate Xuan Mai Saigon has tasked Decibel to build a 275-m tall tower on a plot in the southern city’s District 7. The tower will house a conference centre and commercial offices in its lower floors, with the upper levels dedicated to the Hyatt House and Hyatt Place long-stay apartments and short-stay premium hotel. Both accommodation options will share a sky lobby, and have access to a revolving restaurant and sky deck viewing lounge. “This winning scheme proposed a highly integrated landscape podium, with an engaging public realm of retail and communal offerings built at human scale. The landscape proposition expands the aspiration for the site to include the adjacent Xuan Mai parkland, proposing botanical bridges to connect this parkland to the commercial hub, tower and future residential cluster,” said Dylan Brady, the principal at Decibel Architecture. www.db-a.co Photo: Decibel Architecture + Durek Visualisation

In creating a commercial setting in a busy alley in Taipei’s Eastern District – that had to balance old and new, the street and the premises – JC Architecture cut corners. Based on the idea of connection between spaces and the neighbourhood, the practice cut out a lane in an old business district, diagonally slicing through a building, splitting it in two. Using metal panels as partitions, items, shops, offices, cafes and exhibition space are formed. White metal brings out natural lighting and the window walls connect the inside to the outside, and the bright corridors become part of the city streetscape, making it the highlight of the busy alley. JC Architecture took on the challenge to refrain from changing the façade of the street. In reverse thinking, while preserving traces of buildings more than 30 years old, the work infused modern metal elements in such a way that honours the past but also puts forth a new way to design for the future. www.johnnyisborn.com

WORLD ARCHITECTURE FESTIVAL NAMES PUBLIC LIBRARY BUILDING OF THE YEAR

LWK + PARTNERS DELIVERS RETAIL SPACE CENTRED ON EXPERIENTIAL SHOPPING

Xichen Paradise Walk is the retail component of an integrated complex in the heart of west Chengdu in central mainland China that is bookended by an office tower and a serviced apartment tower. The complex by LWK + Partners sees an architectural form featuring an interplay of geometric shapes, creating a beacon-like façade. In addressing an important traffic intersection to the south-west, the corresponding elevation features an urban-scale shop window designed for the ever-changing, large-scale installations and seasonal contents. Accessibility and transparency underpin the architectural concept. The notion of multiple ground floors allow entry from different levels, giving different points for attracting visitors and a higher accessibility especially to the higher levels, as well as blurring the boundaries between the mall and the surrounding neighbourhood. Most of the retail floors are visible from the main entrance for maximised visibility. The inter-connected circulation enables users with ample flexibility to personalise their own experience. www.lwkp.com

The LocHal Public Library in Tilburg, The Netherlands was the World Building of the Year 2019 at the 12th World Architecture Festival. LocHal is a former locomotive hangar transformed into a public meeting place that redefines the library typology. While keeping traditional facilities demanded by consumers, the library provides ample opportunity for interaction and the creation of knowledge. The building acts as a covered public space, housing shared amenities. In addition to areas for lectures and public events, the building has a number of labs where visitors can learn new skills. The scheme by Civic architects, Braaksma and Roos Architectenbureau, Inside Outside and Petra Blaisse impressed judges with the way the “project transformed a significant building which had been planned for demolition”. Closer to home, Landscape of the Year was awarded to Original Design Studio for their project Demonstration Section of Yangpu Riverside Public Space in Shanghai. The Lao-Ju River Oasis Restoration of Riverfront Ecosystem by Ecoland Planning and Design Corp was also announced as winners of the Landscape Rural category. Among all of the entries, Chinese practices submitted the most projects from any country, with a 68% rise in entries from 2018. The top five jurisdictions submitting entries were mainland China and Hong Kong, Australia, Britain, the United States and India. www.worldarchitecturefestival.com

14 PRESS

25 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED AHEAD OF QUALITY BUILDING AWARD 10TH EDITION

The 10th edition of the Quality Building Award has announced a shortlist of 25 finalists ahead of the awards ceremony to be held on 26 August at the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong. This year’s Quality Excellence Award winner will receive two trophies: the Quality Excellence Award trophy and a newly-introduced Excellence Cup perpetual trophy. The Excellence Cup features the winning projects’ names and will be kept by the winners until the next award cycle commences two years later. “I am very pleased to announce that we’ve received a record-high of 49 submissions this year,” said Peter Mok, Chairman of the QBA 2020 Organising Committee. “We appreciate that amid changing times, an increasing number of built environment professionals are committed to transforming the community.” Yu Tak Cheung, the jury panel chairman, said: “QBA has always recognised and encouraged first-rate projects that help advance the built environment industry. We are delighted to see a noticeable increase in the number of submissions from projects outside Hong Kong.” www.qba.com.hk

4N DESIGN SERVES UP SURREAL FEEL FOR BELGIAN CONCEPT RESTAURANT BELGOS

ROFKIND TO LEAD HOK’S HOSPITALITY DESIGN PRACTICE IN ASIA PACIFIC

When hospitality group El Grande Holdings Ltd decided to bring a refreshed Belgian and French restaurant concept to Lee Garden Three in Hong Kong’s Causeway Bay, they wanted a restaurant and bar that had a casual and humble interior to attract all walks of life. 4N Design offered a tribute to artists and cartoonists, including a Surrealist-inspired mural, hung umbrellas in the dining hall, a magical door above the bar and bursts of art throughout. A mix of table settings from alfresco dining tables, high and low tops, and one of the longest bar tables in town to seat about 30 people, is blended with metal finishes, timber and steel. The input of Belgian artist René Magritte is clear throughout. The Magritte-inspired surrealist umbrellas were hung with bespoke graphics printed onto the umbrella canvas, acting as a ceiling decoration as well as pendant lighting. The overall design was a joyful and chilled vibe for customers to come in and enjoy some good times. www.4narchitects.com

HOK Asia Pacific has named J Lee Rofkind to lead the practice’s hospitality division in Hong Kong. Rofkind has 30 years’ experience in a portfolio that includes work with leading hospitality brands including Shangri-La, Mandarin Oriental, St. Regis, Ritz-Carlton and Grand Hyatt. She replaces Julia Monk. Rofkind comes to HOK from BUZ Design Consultants Ltd. in Hong Kong, where she was founder and principal. Rofkind was previously the design director of Hyatt International Asia Pacific. “HOK has long been a leader in the design of resorts, urban hotels and other hospitality projects across the region,” said Paul Collins, HOK Asia Pacific managing director. “J Lee will be an exceptional partner for our team and hospitality clients across the region.” Along with Rofkind, HOK’s Hospitality leadership team includes Louis Hedgecock, Dina Lamanna and Catherine Yatrakis in New York; Laura Jones and Ian Rolston in Toronto; Tracey Stearns in Kansas City; and Jackie Wang in Hong Kong. Current and recent hospitality projects include the InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun at Topwin Center in Beijing; Peninsula Hotel, Shanghai; Le Meridien Hangzhou; The Westin Nanchang; Portman Seven Stars Bay Hotel Xiamen; Atlantis Hotel Sanya; Sanya Tianya Haijiao Hyatt Regency Resort; St. Regis Belgrade in Belgrade, Serbia; and Rosewood Abu Dhabi Hotel & Residences. www.hok.com

CHINA RESOURCES’ MIXC MARKET HALL BY 10 DESIGN ON-SITE IN SHENZHEN

China Resources’ new mixed-use development, Sungang MixC Market Hall, is under construction in Shenzhen, China with completion anticipated by Q3 2022. Located on a former industrial site, the new destination mall will provide an immersive gastronomic experience under one roof. 10 Design Chief Operating Officer, Miriam Auyeung commented: “The site used to accommodate a warehouse within the old industrial district of Sungang and will soon be converted into a new CBD. MixC Market Hall is aimed to create a lifestyle complex around food and dining. The complex will mark an important milestone for the ongoing transformation of Sungang, acting as a catalyst to drive urban regeneration in the area.” MixC Market Hall will accommodate 78,890m² of retail and F&B dining space, with two office towers above providing 102,320m² of workspace. As part of the regeneration of the district, the overall masterplan will also include residential and serviced apartment towers, resettlement housing, and public amenities, providing a holistic redevelopment. www.10design.co

URA TAKES 17 TENDERS FOR DEVELOPMENT OF PLOT ON TONKIN, FUK WING STREET

The Urban Renewal Authority asked 36 pre-qualified organisations to tender for the development of the Tonkin Street and Fuk Wing Street Development Project in Sham Shui Po in April. The URA says tenders have now closed and 17 submissions are being considered by the URA. The project covers a site area of about 1,070m2 which after development would provide a maximum GFA of about 9,670m2. The project commenced in March 2013 and has a targeted completion date running into 2024. The URA’s initial proposal is to redevelop the site to provide about 175 small- to medium-sized residential units with flat sizes of around 35m2 to 65m2, and retail podium on the lower floors. Any successful developer must construct the new development in compliance with the standard and quality requirements, the environmentally sustainable provisions and smart provisions set out in the development agreement of the project with the aim of creating a sustainable living environment. www.ura.org.hk

HONEYWELL’S MONITORING SYSTEM COUNTERS HVAC ENERGY CONSUMPTION

SAFEST, HIGH-SPEED SECURITY DOOR OFFERS PHYSICAL PROTECTION FOR ASSETS The EFA-SST Secure is billed as the world’s fastest roll-up security door, and a valuable tool to protect assets from burglary, robbery and vandalism. Doublesided automatic locks secure the door during every closing operation, transforming it into a near-insurmountable obstacle. With its space saving, compact design, the super-secure door satisfies the requirements for optimum integration into safety guard applications. Burglaries and robberies in particular are usually well organised and pre-planned, conducted by networks of criminals who have the necessary means to forcibly gain entry. People wishing to safeguard against these risks often resort to electronic security detection and alarm systems. However, they can complicate logistical processes and slow internal procedures, imposing significant restrictions to operations. A physical door fits seamlessly into the structure of the building. The design by German manufacturer Efaflex brings almost 50 years of heritage and know-how. Efaflex was the first company worldwide that exclusively dealt with high-speed doors and it has become an unchallenged technology leader. www.aub.com.hk

Honeywell Forge Energy Optimisation is a cloud-based, closed-loop, machine learning solution that studies a building’s energy consumption patterns and adjusts its settings to reduce energy consumption. At the product’s Hong Kong launch earlier this year, Honeywell said the technology may deliver doubledigit energy savings, decrease a building’s carbon footprint, and be implemented without significant upfront capital expenses. Energy consumption in commercial buildings is a significant issue because these structures account for more than 36% of global final energy consumption and about 40% of direct and indirect CO2 emissions. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning often presents the largest opportunity for energy savings. The Honeywell system optimises a building’s internal set points across hundreds of assets every 15 minutes to evaluate whether a building’s HVAC system is running at peak efficiency. Before the system makes an adjustment, it analyses dozens of data points, including the weather and occupancy levels. www.honeywell.com

16 AWARDS

World Interior of the Year inspires new living in Taipei Building a future on the foundations of the past

orn and raised in Taiwan, award-winning designer and architect Johnny Chiu is the founder of JC Architecture (JCA) in Taipei. A graduate from Columbia University he has lived, worked, and taught in New Zealand, Australia, Sweden, Japan and the US. He believes that good design should be inspired by the needs of the individual, and that society and the interaction between human and space must be integral to the design process. “Design is a tool for creating change in society; a building, whatever its use, should improve the lives of its inhabitants. I believe in creating accessible buildings that have a voice in the community as a means of creating change,” he comments in an exclusive interview with PRC.

Taiwan Design It is this philosophy that won JCA the prestigious World Festival of Interior ‘Inside’ award for Interior of the Year for an innovative project entitled JCA Living Lab. “This is a first for any Taiwanese design company and for me is a great honour to achieve such worldwide recognition. For a country that is not well-known for its interior work I feel this gives us a voice and a degree of authority that is good for the industry and the future of Taiwan design,” he adds. JCA Living Lab is an embodiment of Chiu’s philosophy and a project close to his heart – a community facility linked to his own family home in a renovated 90year old building once left to history. The project was inspired by a vision of creating a space for his children to live in a healthy environment. Text: Elizabeth Dooley

Photos: JC Architecture

Derek Leung

Set within a 240 square metre plot, the building was built during the time of the Japanese occupation of Taiwan as a university dormitory for professors. JCA’s research showed that there are over 1,000 similar buildings in the centre of Taipei. Left largely abandoned and with some having been renovated and now housing cafes or small museums, Chiu’s motivation for creating a public and private space is driven by a belief that residents of the city should know that there are alternatives to living in high-rise apartment buildings and condos. “The last professor passed away around 25 years ago and the building was left abandoned, so we saw this as a perfect opportunity to revitalise the space. As a rental property it works on the idea that we rent it for ten years, renovate it and move on to somewhere else to leave behind a new culture and vision for society,” Chiu explains. “Within the space we created a community hub to host various events, activities and speakers. Community is important for me as a designer and I believe the best spaces are those that promote participation and collaboration. For me, the design process is ongoing, changing with the different needs of those living in or visiting the building. Children and adults alike can gain insight into a different way of city living. The project is not about luxury or refined details. Rather, it’s about giving the building a new lease of life and using this opportunity to showcase the relevance of our design approach based on realistic social economics and believing that we can create a ripple effect within architecture and society. By embracing the old, and breathing new life into it, we are also sending out a message to developers that we don’t need to build any more apartments in the sky,” he adds.

"Outstanding adaptation and reuse of local heritage. Successful integration of indoors and outdoors on a confined site in a dense urban context." INSIDE judge's comment

Moving into a modern future

Freedom to explore

The site has created a new environment for an urban world, full of possibilities. As such, the project explores the relationship between the old and the new, between Chiu and his family and the visitors to the house. Unlike the high-rise apartment so familiar to Taipei residents the concept merges the exterior and the interior of a ground floor setting, from the use of Japanese wood, antique marble floors and tables, through to the scent of herbs that flow from the outside in.

Looking at how Chiu has renovated the building, it is clear that his children have been a big inspiration. The design allows a freedom to explore that would be impossible in any modern apartment building. From the vines in the garden to the red exterior ladder that leads to the roof area, different areas are set on different levels to exude a living style that encourages exploration.

“Analysing the lifestyle of modern families and then attempting to contain it in an historical living space is like learning to talk to elders. There are things that should be preserved, and things that should be changed. Instead of just dwelling on the past, it is our goal to bring history forward into the future,” says Chiu. A six-metre long wall separates the public spaces from the private. The private house is the main space of the residential space, while the additional space that was added to the original building in the 1950s is now transformed to include a public kitchen and living room as well as an open space designed for public meetings and gatherings. The contrast between modern and historical times is exploited throughout, with the insertion of a door into the main wall symbolising the infusion of new energy.

The master bedroom connects to the main living space, backyard and kitchen/ dining area, while the tub and outdoor shower are features that promote external activity. Chiu has successfully optimised the idea of spatial fluidity, and the elements of light and wind create a flow that breathes energy between the old and the new. For Chiu, greenery plays a role in creating spatial fluidity where the sunlight and wind flows through. The skylight of the roof shapes a path of light, and carries a majestic tree that acts as a guide for the house, from its historical beginnings through to its present chapter. The exterior red staircase reaches up to the roof, connecting the ground to the sky, and even the block to the city,” “This is a design project that never ends. It is a place full of life and energy and a place for innovation and experiment. As designers we are influencers of lifestyle, but in the end, the result is a collaboration between all who live and breathe it,” he concludes.

18 AWARDS

ohnny Chiu, the founder of JC Architecture and OUT Scholarship, recognised for his fresh perspective and concept-driven work. He is the first Taiwanese designer to win WAF/INSIDE World Interior of the Year, his other accolades includes four TID gold awards, 40 Under 40 Awards and Red Dot: Best of the Best. His provocative and unconventional design works have made him a key figure in defining design in Asia and is often invited on the jury panel of esteem design competitions such as US’s International Interior Design Award and Golden Pin Design Award. He also often guest lectures at many universities including the prestigious Royal College of Art in London.

SCAN TO KNOW MORE

www.johnnyisborn.com

20 FEATURE

thing itself, but think deeper and ask ourselves, can this matter create more value, thus creating well-being for different people. If each of our projects is established through such a process, I believe that in the long run it will be advantageous for establishing the brand image of New World Development, helping to implement the company's "New World Sustainability Vision 2030".

3. How has NWD increased customer fulfilment at K11 Atelier King's Road? First of all, we will adapt to local conditions. On the busy King's Road, I suggested that the company should build an office building instead of a residential tower, because the nearby transportation facilities and environment are more suitable for commercial use.

PROMOTE CREATIVE SHARED VALUES INTERVIEW WITH SITT NAM HOI

In addition to the platinum certification of Beam Plus and LEED, this is the first building in Hong Kong and even China to participate in the “WELL” verification. WELL is an important tool to promote health and well-being in the built environment. Besides the normal type of requirements it adds some humanised elements, including light source, air, water quality and temperature requirements, and as a result, K11 Atelier King's Road also achieved a platinum rating. In terms of working space, the height of the three-metre floor makes for a more spacious and flexible envirnment; the high-rise units enjoy open views of the sea and mountain, but the lower floors can only see the opposite buildings. As a response to this the architect came up with the use of a cubic façade feature to add vertical greenery and even garden balconies to create a comfortably angled to the views. This makes the building's appearance more creative and remarkable.

1. What is New World Development's vision 4. Compared to other commercial for developing innovative new buildings? developments, what makes K11 Atelier Every new project developed by New World Development (NWD) will always have some new concepts and designs. At the same time we try our best to King's Road so outstanding? include designs that reflect the characteristics of the district. The company also encourages the use of new-generation designers and architects who can bring new inspiration and ideas.

An example is our SkyPark residential project in Mong Kok. We thought about how to incorporate a garden, because in such an overcrowded area it’s hard to build a place where people can relax. The result, we thought about creating a large garden with a clubhouse at the top of the building where you can enjoy the view of the Kowloon area. This realisation of the idea expresses the company's support for creative design. In order to cooperate with young buyers we have also thought a lot about the details, such as adding network connection to the bathroom mirror cabinet, something which is more suitable for young people’s lifestyle. Our company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Adrian Cheng, is very encouraging for us to spend more thought in the details.

2. What are some innovative initiatives implemented in NWD? The company implemented a new operational direction which I think is key, that is "Creating Shared Value" (CSV). It includes three main elements - social needs, business opportunities, company assets and expertise. We can use the company's human resources to give back to society without affecting the normal operation, especially to help the middle and lower classes in society, and can then create business opportunities as well. Taking K11 Atelier King's Road as an example, we have varied the setback on three sides of the building so that the streets have more space for the public to use; and we created a "CellinGreen" green box at the lower part of the building. The patented technology includes installing plants on the ceiling upside down, this also creates a green landscape for nearby residents. The over ninemeter height lobby entrance can be changed into a semi-open space during the holidays to hold events for public participation. CSV is a relatively new business strategy, but many international companies are also beginning to see its value. I think this is a very innovative move, because every time we do something, we don’t just look at the meaning of the

Text: Bryan Chan

Photos: New World Development and ROF Media

I dare not say that K11 Atelier King ’s Road is the best, but it is certainly excellent! In addition to its advantages in hardware, it is equally advanced in software. What’s special here is "K11 Atelier Academy", which is a platform that provides different courses or interest classes for building tenants to participate in. It covers activities such as art, sports and wellness. The word "Atelier" in French means "Workshop", so we have different partners in about 20 cities and more than 100 places around the world and our members can use their co-working space and facilities. These selected partners must also meet our sustainability standards and people-oriented requirements, so that users in different cities can also experience the spirit and philosophy of K11 Atelier.

5. What is a Vertical Creative City? The "Vertical Creative City" concept proposed by Adrian Cheng includes the three main core elements of the K11 brand - Art, People and Nature and are woven into the DNA of structure of the building and NWD's management. This is not just an office building designed solely for work. Its supporting facilities are very rich and sustainable. In addition to work and social interaction, it provides corresponding facilities for mental and physical health. Most obvious is the rooftop garden, where there is an urban farm, jogging track, solar panels and wind turbines. You can run there during the day and can patronise the restaurant on the F & B floor, or you can bring your own lunch to the rooftop, enjoying the comfortable environment and wide open space. The third floor is a multifunctional exhibition hall and the space in front of the lobby can also be opened as a public event venue. In terms of supporting facilities, we also pay attention to each floor. There are multiple types of toilets catering to the different needs of the users, from executive facilities with bathrooms to those for children and families provided on the F&B floor, as well as pantries and nursery rooms. At the same time, according to the philosophy of the company’s Artisanal Movement, which includes a focus on Heritage, we saved terrazzo from the building’s predecessor and made a very representative building nameplate in order to preserve the memory of the craftsmanship and reused it in an artistic way, passing down the history of the building from one generation to the next.

6. How do you influence others at work? In fact, I am constantly challenging myself. I believe that when you work with younger colleagues, try not to teach them how to do everything, but create space for them to show their strengths and don't try to control everything on their behalf. It is to understand from the angle of concern, so that they can create more spontaneously, and be willing to undertake jobs, whilst allowing them to enjoy the results of their input. I have been working in this industry for more than 40 years and have been working closely with the construction teams to understand their situation. Caring about them is very important, it provides a great inspiration!

SCAN TO KNOW MORE ABOUT K11 ATELIER KING'S ROAD

22 FEATURE

DESIGNING FOR A CONTEMPORARY GENERATION Text: Elizabeth Dooley

Photos: Denice Hough

Krista Chan

Grand Gateway 66 is a flagship commercial mixed-use development located in Xijiahui, Shanghai, developed by Hang Lung Properties.

As a specific characteristic of her working method, Giallini uses a holistic approach, tailored to generate a harmonious and coherent ambience where each single part relates to the whole in terms of functionality and elements of visual appeal.

he revitalisation project undertaken by Elena Galli Giallini Ltd., as design architect and interior designer, has involved the rejuvenation of the existing retail complex through a complete transformation of the 20year old North building and a full renovation of the South building, which is currently undergoing implementation on site.

“The concept of ‘Place Making’ was also what we draw particular attention to. It refers to the process of creating ‘quality places’ with a strong sense of identity and unique aesthetical characteristics; spaces that people want to shop, work, live, play and learn in. With this in mind, our emphasis was put on creating new spatial configurations to define a fluid and dynamic space with improved circulation, enhanced spaciousness and a feeling of interconnectedness, while adding distinctiveness. To this effect the lobbies are presented as internal ‘plazas’, offering attractive spaces for socialisation, participation and discovery” she says.

With a GFA of approximately 315,118m 2 on a site of 50,788m 2 , the development consists of a retail centre, serviced apartments and twin offices towers. The reimagined design of the 185,720m2 ground floor area retail centre is based on the need to address new factors of contemporary society. As such, the development has undergone a radical retransformation from what Giallini describes as a ‘cathedral of consumerism’ to a hub for modern urban lifestyle and leisure. African-born Italian architect and designer, Giallini has worked in Asia for the past 25 years, first in Japan and more recently China. Her experience and insight into different cultures have reinforced her belief that architects and designers should do more than rely on what she calls ‘fixed style formulas’ to generate creative output. Indeed, her methodology revolves around finding solutions to specific places and conditions.

Unique perspectives “My work is based on a persistent search for novelty, both aesthetic and functional, within a specific time and place. For each project we consider the ‘genius loci’ or ‘the spirit of the place’, which represents all the conditions of a particular location, including its surrounding, environment, culture, history and traditions,” she explains. “Our design strategy is also informed by peoples’ lifestyle and the particular purposes of the project. In this sense every design should generate a strong identity, which requires interpreting a sense of history as well as a direction for the future.” As co-founder of her boutique architectural and design practice, Giallini’s interdisciplinary approach encompasses architecture, interior design and industrial product development. With a portfolio that boasts projects in Italy, Japan and China, her involvement in Grand Gateway 66 is key to understanding her philosophy and her multi-cultural influence.

An embodiment of the “new” The North Building, which is made up of six floors above ground and three below, was the first phase of rejuvenation, and involved integration of the existing retail centre with surrounding areas. “Our approach was to think creatively about how to turn limitations into opportunities and how to infuse this huge retail complex with a special identity and transform it into a unique destination relevant to the place and time,” Giallini explains. “For the South Building, where an outstanding glass domed atrium and skylights topping the arcades allows the natural light to inundate the space below, the major aspects to overcome were related to the rigorousness of its spatial composition and the rigid constraints on site. In contrast, in the North Building, we had a greater amount of freedom for the new design, both in terms of architecture and interior design, which provided us with an almost blank canvas. Yet the main challenge, was to offset a total absence of natural light. Light thus became one of the key factors of the whole ambiance design” she adds.

Creating harmony and appeal Above all, Giallini’s overarching strategy was to find a way to harmonise the two buildings and integrate them into a new complex where the two parts could work together in synergy through their distinctive differences in character. “One of the main targets of the project was to lift the image of the existing retail complex and to increase its economic value by transforming it from a functional to a pleasurable and experiential destination. Our focus laid on aspects relating to the creation of a sensory experience, aiming to achieve a unique ‘look and feel’ which is what sets it apart from other retail destinations.”

All design features exemplify Giallini’s specific design method, with each part solved using unconventional and customised solutions that display great attention to detail and unique craftsmanship. Ceiling design was key in defining the visual appeal: planes, folds and illuminated troughs accentuate major architectural elements, providing distinctive highlights while solving ceiling constraints. Lift lobbies, featuring natural patterned-stoned cladding and bespoke lifts in laser cut metal and meshes display a calibrated contrast between the bold and the delicate. Floors are further characterised using various nuances of beige and brown stripes, which overlap and weave through the vast expanse of the mall’s atrium on each floor, while washrooms emphasise a unique and subtle refinement complete with contemporary and bespoke cubicles, freestanding washbasins, mirrors and lighting fixtures. Giallini’s selection of natural materials also plays an essential role. A quality of natural authenticity infuses the ambiance, where materials such as stone, metal, glass, wire mesh and wood are presented in various arrangements of different finishes and patterns to enhance novelty and sophistication. Meanwhile, interplays between strong and soft hues, enriched with metallic bronze and copper overtones add to the effect. The peculiar combinations of materials and colours created distinctiveness and dynamism to the overall experience. “We believe that all the qualities inherent to aesthetic values will become crucially relevant in defining the future of contemporary malls,” she concludes.

24 FEATURE

www.elenagalligiallini.com

26 FEATURE

LIGHT

FLY WITH

TINOKWAN Lighting Consultants celebrated its 40th anniversary at the end of last year and held the “Unity of Light” lighting design exhibition at the Hong Kong Art Centre. Company founder Tino Kwan showcased the company’s iconic projects and reviewed his outlook for the future, hoping to give the public a more detailed understanding of lighting design.

“IN MY YOUTH I DREAMED OF MY WORK BEING WORLD FAMOUS! WHILE WORKING FOR AN AMERICAN COMPANY I THOUGHT THAT I COULD DESIGN LAMPS TO SATISFY MY DESIRE FOR DESIGN, BUT THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND THE LIGHTING DESIGN ALSO DEEPLY FASCINATED ME AND SINCE THEN I HAVE FORMED AN UNBREAKABLE BOND WITH THE LIGHT.”

1. As a young designer what it was that inspired you most about this city? Forty years ago, lighting design was not a popular industry and schools did not have related courses, so there was nothing in Hong Kong that inspired me in this regard. But after working for a lighting company for about six months I was sent to work in Greece where I was exposed to more European styles. I got some enlightenment from there.

2. How have new technologies changed lighting design most significantly? From the 1970s to the present, lighting technology has changed a lot. Most obvious is the evolution from the use of incandescent lamps to the most commonly used LEDs today. After so many years, I am still fascinated by the evolution of lighting technology, and the different technological innovations have made me follow along which promotes my innovative thinking.

3. How has the quality of interior lighting improved over recent years and are designs today more sensitive to the needs and overall health of tenants? LED is an important invention. It is lightweight and is highly adaptable, providing many more possibilities for interior design. It saves energy and helps obtain energy efficiency certificates; therefore large companies are more than willing to adopt LED lighting. The health aspect mainly comes from colour temperature control, something our company has been using for more than ten years, to change throughout the day in accordance with people’s moods. The colour temperature of light in the morning is about 5500K, which makes people feel refreshed; at noon, colleagues may go out to eat, the colour temperature will drop to about 4000K, saving power. Colleagues who stay in the office can rest or go online browsing, so the colour temperature does not need to be too high. At dusk the colour temperature will drop to 3000K so that everyone can feel relaxed and ready to leave. This is the benefit that LEDs can bring for the well-being of users.

4. Do you have any favourite projects? Recently I’m quite satisfied with our work for St Regis. Although it is not a very large hotel, it makes people feel very comfortable. Also the entire team of architects and designers worked very smoothly during the course of this project which is why the finished results speak for themselves.

Text: Bryan Chan

Images: TINOKWAN Lighting Consultants Ltd.

Raffles Singapore

The Tokyo Peninsula Hotel is another favourite. Although the project was completed more than a decade ago, the hotel itself is still well maintained and the lighting effect is not outdated at all. I returned there two years ago to participate in the tenth anniversary celebrations. The hotel still felt new and we were still admiring its design and beauty.

5. What is a good lighting design? A good lighting design must be comfortable. Indoors, any light that is too strong or causes you to feel uncomfortable is not good and it needs to have a sense of space. There needs to be a main focal point in a space, which can be a dining table in the living room or a painting on the wall. Then these objects need to be divided into themes or sub-themes, with the coordination of lights to present them, creating a different sense of hierarchy in the space, which is also a basic lighting design element. In architecture, lighting is not isolated, it is part of the interior design, what you should look at is the effect created within the entire space.

6. Where can I study lighting design? You can find some lighting design courses in Australia and the UK, but they are also really specialised. In my experience, if you are interested in lighting design, it’s better to have some experience or a background in architecture or interior design and it will then be easier to build a career in lighting design. Because we want to create an atmosphere of lighting, but we often have to wait until the day the lights are turned on to see results, so in the process, we need to have unparalleled imagination to be successful.

7. Can you see into the future? Looking into the future, I believe that LED still has a lot of room for improvement. The cooperation of intelligent technology will lead to greater improvements in lighting. Our current projects are mainly in Asia. These include a military museum in Vietnam and projects are in progress in the Philippines, South Korea, Japan, China, and Macau. More than 50% are hotel projects, the rest are commercial and residential building projects.

“YOU CAN SEE BEAUTIFUL LIGHTING DESIGN IN MANY HOTEL LOBBIES AND THEIR PUBLIC SPACES, BUT I BELIEVE THERE WILL BE MORE PRIVATE HOUSES AND APARTMENTS THAT WILL USE LIGHTING DESIGN TO PERSONALISE SPACES, INCORPORATING THE USE OF NEW TECHNOLOGY.”

St. Regis Hong Kong

28 FEATURE

FLICK

Text: Michael Hoare & Joe Wyatt

Photos: WAF

Krista Chan

LIKE AND SHARE illuminate asia - lighting & smart living

30 FEATURE

COURTYARD NO.1

HEZE CITY, SHANDONG, CHINA | DESIGNED BY AOE

SCAN TO KNOW MORE

32 FEATURE

CLOUD OF LUSTER CHAPEL

HIMEJI, JAPAN | DESIGNED BY KTX ARCHILAB The Cloud of Luster Chapel was born following the redevelopment of the original Aile-Blanche Chapel, part of La-Vienna Wedding Ceremony Hall. Built to be a place where newlyweds can make cherished memories that they will hold on to for the rest of their lives together, the theme of ‘dreams and light’ has been expressed using swooping curves of glass. The cloud-shaped space for the Chapel is enveloped in transparent curved glass, allowing in daylight from all directions. All white, the Chapel boasts a minimalistic ceiling, with columns supporting the roof of the approach,

connecting the main ceremony hall to the chapel and offering access to the garden. The wedding aisle has been built with a back-lit glass floor, which leads ceremoniously up to a minimalistic altar over an elevated choir. The remaining floor is covered in clear glass beads and resin. On a sunny day, not only do the floor glass beads reflect the light, but the surface of the water is projected onto the ceiling of the chapel, creating a natural, undulating spectacle of life. Lit from below, the surface of the pool outside emphasises the illusion that the Chapel is floating.

SCAN TO KNOW MORE

34 FEATURE

MERKEZ ANKARA SHOWROOM

ANKARA, TURKEY | DESIGNED BY YAZGAN DESIGN ARCHITECTURE The Merkez Ankara Project is a mixed-use project of residences and offices, containing mock-up apartment flats, administrative and sales offices, as well as small inner and outer gardens. The atriums ensure that natural light reaches every corner within the development, blurring the distinction between interior and exterior. The entrance and waiting hall lead to an exhibition area showcasing models of the project. Service areas and circulation cores, as well as administrative offices, are gathered in strips on the eastern and western façades respectively. This leaves the centre solely for the display of the project and its inner gardens. Service areas, offices and sample apartment units make up the first floor. Furthermore, shadows were a significant consideration in the design process. Whilst their physical quality and the potentially dramatic effect on the interior were utilised, shadows also influenced the layout of the building’s mechanical and technical systems. Moreover, the folded shell that wraps around the building is one of the salient features of the project. Fabric is used as a material for the shell, allowing for sun shading. This creates a strikingly different image of the project from day to night.

SCAN TO KNOW MORE

36 FEATURE

TURKISH AIRLINES DOMESTIC LOUNGE ISTANBUL AIRPORT, TURKEY | DESIGNED BY SOFTROOM FLOW

SCAN TO KNOW MORE

38 FEATURE

BAR LOTUS

SHANGHAI, CHINA | DESIGNED BY OFFICE AIO

SCAN TO KNOW MORE

THE FORTNUM'S BAR AND RESTAURANT AT THE ROYAL EXCHANGE LONDON, ENGLAND | DESIGNED BY UNIVERSAL DESIGN STUDIO

The destination restaurant and bar project captures the spirit, heritage and tradition of Fortnum & Mason’s 300-year-old Piccadilly store and transposes it into a new context within the Royal Exchange, London. The design remains sensitive to the historical context of the Royal Exchange while also acting as a Fortnum & Mason brand beacon. The scale, level of transparency, materiality, colour and detail all sit in harmony within the Grade I Listed architecture. The central bar takes design cues from delicate architectural details from Fortnum & Mason’s Piccadilly store, including historic frame structures, travelling canopies, lattice work, and English silverware - all

with a contemporary interpretation. The canopy has a sense of openness while also being sculptural and beautiful, allowing it to create an impact but without hindering key views into the Royal Exchange atrium. The restrained, warm, textured material palette complements the hues of the Royal Exchange’s dominant material; Portland stone. Respecting the surrounding neoclassical architecture, the bar is proportioned to sit harmoniously within the vast internal atrium whilst creating a sense of intimacy at human scale. Overall, the design skilfully marries a modern bar and dining destination within classical architecture.

SCAN TO KNOW MORE LIKE AND SHARE

illuminate asia - lighting & smart living

40 FEATURE

4. Hotel marketing in the past frequently focused on guest services and a property's locational advantages.

1. What trends are changing the hotel experience in 2020/21? "Needless to say the Coronavirus Pandemic is the major game changer. When hotels reopen guests will be looking at them with a much more critical eye on cleanliness, maintenance, social distancing etc. Hotels will have to be designed with ease of cleaning a priority. ” Cleanliness, Cleanliness, Cleanliness is the key trend. This means designs that are light, fresh will be more acceptable than dark, moody schemes that theoretically can hide dirt. Thermal sensors at doors will be the new norm. Hand sanitizers everywhere. Touchless technology will be implemented more; automated check ins, keyless door locks opened with your phone etc. Sensor operated doors, faucets etc. Robots are surfacing more and more for room service, to deliver luggage, messages and a variety of uses. Hilton very recently joined forces with Lysol for their “Cleanstay” marketing program, Marriott has appointed a Global Cleanliness Council with other similar programs by other operators soon to follow. The virus is a boost for Wellness Brands, focussed on taking care of your well-being and health while travelling. Many were started Before the Corona Virus (BCV) and more will emerge with market demand.

2. How are hotel operators using design to create their brand identities? In these days of operators holding multiple brands, i.e. Marriott with 32 brands; each brand has to have distinct characteristics to appeal to a certain type of traveller. Room sizes, amenities, furnishings, F&B offerings, artwork, communal spaces are all designed to speak the language of that brand. There is a distinct difference in design between a Park Hyatt and a Hyatt Place which is reflected in the room rate and hence the market they appeal to.

3. In what ways does the design of a property become its principal appeal? Design is a key appeal factor for me. I will typically choose one hotel over another based on design if it’s fairly close to where I need to be and meets my budget. I may even stretch my budget, location requirements for an opportunity to stay at a well-designed hotel. Good design decisions are based on guest comfort, to make the guests stay easier, more enjoyable and the ability of the hotel to service its guests most efficiently. In Hong Kong, many will flock to the newest designer hotel openings for the novelty and prestige of being the first one there and then go back to their favourites if the new hotel is not up to their expectations. Text: Mike Staley

Images: J Lee Rofkind, HOK

Derek Leung

Despite my profession and my answer to #3, service is very important and makes certain brands stand out heads and tails above others. Good service is a reflection of the hotel’s attitude towards its guests and generally hotels with good service are well designed and well maintained – it’s a package. There are some properties that are classics – their designs are a bit tired but immaculately maintained with brilliant service. Those hotels have a fixed market of regulars who can look past the unfortunate bed-skirt in exchange for recognition at reception, a concierge that books their favourite restaurant/favourite table on arrival and a housekeeper that knows exactly what to stock in the mini-bar for them. We will get around to fixing the interiors of those properties as well but with the intent to maintain their heritage and following.

5. With global travel temporarily on hiatus, what are some of the ways that hotels might increase their occupancy by appealing to area residents? Hotels are changing their marketing strategies to appeal as much or more to the local population as less people travel. A perfect example is a 5-Star hotel in Singapore recently spotted selling gourmet hamburgers curb-side for local office workers’ lunch breaks. Hotels will find they need to make their menus more affordable for local guests and they may open their fitness centres and pools to outside guests. One of the best concepts is Staycations – geared for residents to have a break from their day to day routine and enjoy a spa/pool/ gourmet break at a local hotel with their families without the cost or hassle of travel. Many of us are discovering that attending an on-line meeting is less stressful and a good replacement for an unnecessary flight to a foreign country.

“ Local businesses may not have the sophisticated AV equipment as hotels. Hotels can market their business centres and function rooms to local business for global on-line meetings. ”

6. As hotels have become more grandiose over recent years to attract attention to a globalised population, are there still some fundamentals in designing a welcoming home-away-from-home experience? When I started working in hospitality, I was told all guests really want is air conditioning, a comfortable bed and a good shower. That was 30 years ago, the market has changed drastically and become much more competitive. Grandiose hotels appeal to a certain market – I am more attracted to the more humble, sophisticated hotels such as the Aman Resorts, Puli in Shanghai and Sukothai Hotel in Bangkok. These properties are timeless, warm and welcoming. They have a strong sense of place and an elegant simplicity in their design. Good lighting, comfortable furnishings, well detailed guestrooms with spacious bathrooms (brilliant showers) and of course excellent service.

St. Regis Belgrade & The Residences - The Conservatory (Left) and St. Regis Bar (Right)

42 FEATURE

A meeting of

Hearts & Minds

Text: Michael Hoare and Joe Wyatt

Photos: WAF

Derek Leung

About HH21

有關 21 世紀酒店及款待業

hotelhospitality21 Like

+ Follow

+ Share

44 FEATURE

The central design inspiration for Shanghai’s Jiyu Spa is the life and works of Austrian neurologist Sigmund Freud. In essence, the architects sought to foster a dream-like state for spa guests through spatial activation. Visitors are encouraged to be in the moment and enjoy a range of visceral sensory experiences here.

JIYU SPA, SHANGHAI, CHINA

Optical illusions, found throughout the 2000m2 space, are created by the use of transparent, reflective glass and wood veneer. These reveal hidden visual content and capitalise on the delIcate balance between light and dark. Eschewing the conventional choice to bathe spa interiors in light, Shanghai Hip-pop Design Team instead opted to build darker environments, incorporating techniques of phygital design - that which blends the physical and digital - in a way rarely yet found in wellness spaces. The exhibition area, lobby and chanting rooms boast striking visual fixtures and a iconic scifi sleekness to create an otherworldly mood. This avenue for escapism is developed further in the private rooms of the Jiyu spa, which are minimal compared to the rest of the space. The smooth transition between the two mirrors the ebbs and flows experienced whilst dreaming - something one would propose Freud himself would enjoy.

Scan to know more

46 FEATURE

LINDIS LODGE, OMARAMA, NEW ZEALAND Architecture Workshop

Scan to know more

GLASSLESS HOUSE, PAVILION AND POOL FOR XY YUNLU HOTEL, GUANGXI, CHINA

Scan to know more

48 FEATURE

CAN BORDOY GRAND HOUSE & GARDEN, PALMA, SPAIN OHLAB Hotel Can Bordoy incorporates 24 rooms, a swimming pool, spa, garden and panoramic terrace. Located in Palma’s Old Quarter, this project is a complete renovation of a 2,500m2 private family home that became a school run by nuns before being abandoned. The garden, adorned with rich and rare vegetation, is open to the city - emblematic of the architect’s intention to evoke the experience of visiting a home rather than a hotel. A focus on ‘respectful intervention’ that maintains traces of the past whilst creating something contemporary has been adopted. The architects have sought a project that does not hide the eclecticism of the existing building, but instead celebrates the different layers of history contained within. In the main staircase, the skylight is flooded with water, creating a small pool with a transparent bottom. This creates a play of light through the water, flooding the staircase below with twinkling reflections. At the building’s foundations, the Spa Experience is housed within original stone walls from the 12th century. These brutalist structural reinforcements of exposed concrete and delicate natural stone finishes create a ‘journey of water sensations’, evocative of age-old Mediterranean bathing culture.

Scan to know more

WANDA VISTA HOTEL QINGDAO MOVIE METROPOLIS, QINGDAO, CHINA

Scan to know more Follow us

HH21

hotelhospitality21

SCAN TO WATCH THE VIDEO

PRC MAGAZINE CENTENARY th 100 ISSUE

COCKTAIL PARTY

n December, 2019, just before the seasonal holidays, an enthusiastic crowd of industry well-wishers descended upon The Code in Central, Hong Kong. The reason for the gathering of so many enthusiastic AEC professionals was in celebration of the launch of the centenary 100th issue of PRC Magazine, 18 years in the making. The event was well attended with the last of the party goers leaving in the small hours. As part of the celebration of the “Iconic” 100th issue readers of the magazine were asked to nominate their Top 10 Most Iconic Asian projects completed between 2000 and 2020. From the many submissions 100 projects were selected and opened up to an online vote. A video presentation prepared by DITOC counted down the Top 25 projects, as voted by the readers of PRC Magazine and by our followers on social media. The video was one of the evening’s highlights and the Top Ten projects are featured on the following pages with commentaries from regional architects. The PRC Magazine Centenary Issue Awards 2019 acknowledged longstanding and highly valued client partnerships. The stunning handcrafted trophies presented on the night were made of three shades of German oak, sponsored by Schotten & Hansen.

尸女

We would like to thank our sponsors for their generosity which helped to make the PRC Magazine Centenary 100th Issue Event and Cocktail Party such a success.

PLATINUM SPONSOR:

GOLD SPONSORS

LUCKY DRAW SPONSORS:

Legend

C ontractiing & C onsulltancy Liimiited

TOP

10 ASIA'S MOST ICONIC BUILDINGS COMPLETED BETWEEN 2000 AND 2020

JEWEL CHANGI AIRPORT

Singapore | Completed in 2019 | Designed by Safdie Architects

Client/Developer Changi Airport Group, CapitaLand, Jewel Changi Airport Trustee Pte. Ltd. | Lead Architect Safdie Architects | Retail Interiors Benoy | Engineering Consultant QS RSP Architects Planners & Engineers Private Limited | Contractor Woh Hup-Obayashi Joint Venture | Roof Structure and Facades BuroHappold Engineering | MEP Engineer Mott MacDonald Singapore Pte Ltd | Quantity Surveyor Arcadis Singapore Pte Ltd | Water Feature WET Design | Lighting Lighting Planners Associates | Landscape PWP Landscape Architecture

02 HEYDAR ALIYEV CENTRE

Baku, Azerbaijan | Completed in 2012 | Designed by Zaha Hadid Architects

Heydar Aliyev Center was designed to house the country’s cultural programs and contribute to the intellectual life and development of the city. Noted for its distinctive architecture and flowing, curved style that shuns sharp angles, the design establishes a continuous, fluid relationship between its surrounding plaza and the building’s interior. The architecture is a deliberate departure from Baku’s legacy of rigid Soviet Modernism and aspires to express the sensibilities of Azeri culture and the optimism of a nation that is looking to the future since gaining independence in 1991.

Mike Staley Publisher, PRC Magazine

As part of the celebrations linked to the Centenary 100 th Issue of PRC Magazine, we asked readers to nominate “Asia's Most Iconic Buildings completed between 2000 and 2020”. 100 projects were selected and opened to a public vote. The Top 25 projects were unveiled at the 100th issue launch party and cocktail event. Here are the Top Ten projects, as voted for by PRC Magazine’s readers and social media followers. Thank you to the architects who provided commentaries for the Top 10 projects.

The Jewel at Changi really is a breath of fresh air in terms of airport and retail design. The waterfall and forested valley are simply stunning. I think the cleverest thing is the way that nature has be integrated into the various passenger interconnections and the shopping areas. The roof itself is real a feat of engineering, never mind the technical aspects of the waterfall. I think this project is a gamechanger and will change the way we all conceive transit-oriented development projects.

Alex Peaker Design Director, Atkins

The Jewel continues Safdie's line of development that explores the symbiosis between architecture and landscape in a simple form that nevertheless creates an awe-inspiring and memorable experience for the visitor. The ability for the structure to become a destination in its own right is testimony to its success, and its multi tiered lush greenery a welcome respite from the otherwise concrete laden airport. If architecture with a capital 'A' serves more than just being utilitarian but is also to delight, and hopefully inspire future generations of architects to embrace more hybrid architecture / landscape solutions, then the structure is deserving of its win.

Prof. Jason Pomeroy Founding Principal, Pomeroy Studio

The Burj Khalifa is an elegant and seemingly impossible diagram of structural efficiency in height. The triangular core and fundamental structural principles established in this tower have informed and will continue to inform the mega tall structures on earth- this building makes one feel vertiginous even when standing at its base. It has become a global symbol, a beacon around the world - covered in LED lights to become the worlds tallest (and proportionally skinniest) billboard, slung with fireworks to celebrate various occasions, the tower anchors a major redevelopment, and defines the skyline of Dubai as the city of the future.

Dylan Brady Conductor, deciBel(Architecture)))

We all too often focus on the height and the iconic profile of towers, and there is hardly any more iconic than the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Quite unexpectedly, the greatest challenge is not the tip of the tower but where these soaring structures meet the ground and integrate with their context. At the base of the Burj is a park that surrounds the structure and brings back human scale around this inconceivably tall structure. The lush garden uses the large amount of condensate produced by the tower’s extensive air conditioning system as a sustainable form of irrigation. The park integrates the tower with the surrounding urban context and Emaar Boulevard, creating an accessible, pedestrianized destination.

Gregory Kovacs Director, Benoy

BURJ KHALIFA

Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Completed in 2010 | Designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM)

ONE HENNESSY

Hong Kong, China | Completed in 2019 | Designed by DLN

One of the few purely commercial office buildings to make it on the top 25 Iconic building list is the One Hennessy project in Wanchai, Hong Kong. The bold statement of raising the building in order to achieve the maximum allowable height and gain access to prized harbour views, ensures better daylight access, therefore enhancing the workplace experience. Maximising the office commercial value has created a unique architectural expression, achieving its lofty appearance by transferring the perimeter column structure to the central core several floors above the podium. The buildings’ façade is a very clean, crisp expression and gives credence to the landmark corner location. The building has achieved LEED Gold by the US Building Council demonstrating the developer’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

HONG KONG WEST KOWLOON HIGH SPEED RAIL STATION

Hong Kong, China | Completed in 2018 | Designed by Aedas Client/Developer MTR Corporation Ltd. | Lead Architect Andrew Bromberg at Aedas | Design Architect AECOM-Aedas Joint Venture | Engineering Consultant QS Meinhardt | Contractor Leighton – Gammon Joint Venture | Façades ALT | Landscape EDAW The West Kowloon Station is one of the largest infrastructure projects completed in Hong Kong in recent years. Serving as the gateway between mainland China and Hong Kong, this transportation hub is located right at the heart of the city and the new West Kowloon Cultural district. The building is a metaphorical expression of its function with the ribbed roof vaults symbolizing the rail line terminus. These vaults and interstitial glazing, sore over a cathedral like space allowing natural light to penetrate deep down to some 400,000m² of below ground accommodation, thus providing environmental awareness, assisting orientation and enhancing the user and arrival experience. This same user philosophy is carried through externally where the landscaped roof is accessible becoming a green terraced park facing Victoria Harbour. This minimizes the buildings impact to the city skyline and more importantly, it provides much needed green space public amenity and serves as import link to this exciting new cultural and entertainment precinct in Hong Kong.

Steve Trstenjak Principal, Regional Leader – Design, Woods Bagot

TAI KWUN CENTRE FOR HERITAGE AND ARTS Hong Kong, China | Completed in 2018 | Designed by Herzog & de Meuron

Client/Developer The Hong Kong Jockey Club | Executive Architect Rocco Design Architects | Design Architect + Masterplanning Herzog & de Meuron | Conservation Architect Purcell | Structural & Geotechnical Engineer Arup | M & E Consultant J. Roger Preston | QS Rider Levett Bucknall | Main Contractor Gammon Construction | Façade Consultant Arup | Lighting Consultant Arup | Landscape AECOM Asia Company Limited In typical Herzog & De Meuron style, this building creates a great dialogue between the old and the new, involving the users to interpret and engage with it. The contrast between the exposed rough concrete/ brick finishes and the beautifully curated glittering metal façade emphasizes the new additions, yet respecting the importance of city’s heritage. Simple and tectonic nature of the strong cantilever form deals very well with the scale of neighbouring buildings, respecting the context and the human scale. Level differences across the site’s varies entries is very well addressed, connecting it seamlessly to the adjoining streetscape, making it very natural and easy to walk through. This building is a great addition to Hong Kong Public Landscape and Architecture, always a joy to visit.

Amarindra Rana, Design Director, Architecture and Interiors, Atkins

GOLDEN BRIDGE

Da Nang, Vietnam | Completed in 2018 | Designed by TA Landscape Architecture

Client/Developer The Sun Group | Lead Architect: TA Landscape Architecture | Design Architect Vu Viet Anh, Nguyen Quang Huu Tuan, and Tran Quang Hung The Golden Bridge certainly is an eye-catching design, the God with giant hands holding a pathway taking its visitors through the breath-taking view provides an interesting “design solution” for this Southeast Asian country. The eccentric sculpture very much matches the excessive, everything Instagram-able trend nowadays. It reminds me of Michelangelo’s painting- the Creation of Adam- where the power, the life, the balance is expressed through the two hands. For this design to reach top 10, maybe it’s saying something about the state of design in Asia now, which creates an interesting dialogue about where design is heading, or not heading.

Johnny Chiu Founder, JC Architecture

SCAN TO WATCH THE TOP 25 VIDEO

SHANGHAI 08 INTERCONTINENTAL WONDERLAND HOTEL

( THE QUARRY HOTEL )

Shanghai, China | Completed in 2018 | Designed by Atkins Built in an abandoned quarry, it is the ultimate repurposing of an industrial site. Rather than back fill or conceal the human interaction on the site, the designers successfully repurposed the quarry in a unique way, creating a oneof-a-kind luxury hospitality destination. The hotel structure dramatically clings to the quarry wall, contrasting against yet also complementing its surrounds. The drama of the design is enhanced by a man-made lake and underwater rooms which add to the visitor experience.

Darren Cartlidge Regional Operational Director, Benoy

Faced with an ever-increasing number of such scars on the earth, this project by Atkins and BAM (Ballistic Architecture Machine) on landscape has truly lead the way in innovation assisting to maximize a site’s potential.The premise is instantly clear- a tower built down into the ground, a carved and man made landscape fully enclosed and controlled and able to be lit and transformed in radical ways, truly a real life a project worthy of a finalist‘s place in the Evolo competition.This hotel has become a magnificent ‘land of the lost’ a magical world hidden just below the horizon.

Dylan Brady Conductor, deciBel(Architecture)))

BEIJING NATIONAL STADIUM ( BIRD'S NEST ) Beijing, China | Completed in 2008 | Designed by Herzog & de Meuron

Client/Developer National Stadium Co. Ldt, Beijing, China | Design Consortium Herzog & de Meuron; Ove Arup & Partners Hong Kong Ltd.; China Architectural Design & Research Group (CADRG) | Architect Planning Herzog & de Meuron | Architect Construction CADRG | Structural Engineering Ove Arup & Partners Hong Kong Ltd., CADRG | Sports Consultant Arup Sport, London, UK | Landscape Design Herzog & de Meuron; CADRG | Cladding Design Consultant R + R Fuchs, Munich, Germany | In Collaboration with Ai Weiwei, Beijing, China; Chinese Artist and Curator,Artistic Advisor

The National Stadium, affectionately known as Bird’s Nest, is a stunning landmark building that staged the 2008 Olympic Games. Without a doubt, it is one of the most iconic projects of the last two decades with the miracle of China’s high-speed development. Its iconic is not only as a physical landmark representing the economic, but also as a meaning memory point reflecting social & culture. It marks the modernist and postmodernist architecture/aesthetic performed a huge impact on the development of the China culture, originating thousands of years ago. It expresses that the China culture fused in globalization, an inevitable trend.

Weiqi Wang Associate, SOM

Client/Developer Shimao Group | Lead Architect Atkins | Design Architect: East China Architectural Design & Research Institute | Interiors CCD | Engineering Consultant QS East China Architectural Design & Research Institute | Contractor China State Construction Engineering Corporation | Façades: East China Architectural Design & Research Institute and Hyder Consulting | Lighting LDP lighting | Landscape Ballistic Architecture Machine | MEP Parsons Brinckerhoff (WSP)

MARINA BAY SANDS HOTEL

Singapore | Completed in 2010 | Designed by Moshe Safdie

Client/Developer Marina Bay Sands Pte Ltd., Las Vegas Sands Corporation | Design Architect Moshe Safdie and Associates | Architect of Record: Aedas | Structural Engineer Arup | MEP Engineers R.G. Vanderweil Engineers, Parsons Brinckerhoff | Interiors CL3 Architects Ltd, Rockwell Group, Fisher Dachs Associates, Inc., Hirsch Bedner Associates | Contractor JFE Engineering Corporation, Lian Beng Group, Ssangyong Engineering & Construction | Façades Arup | Lighting Laservision, Spectra Lighting, Project Lighting Design Pte. Ltd. | Landscape Howard Fields & Associates, Internationa, Peridian Asia Pte Ltd, PWP Landscape Architecture

Marina Bay Sands reinforces the notion that the skycourt and skygarden is increasingly becoming part of a new urban vocabulary alongside the street, the square, the arcade and the terrace. The skypark is a technological feat that spans the length of over 4 jumbo jets placed nose to tail and is a dizzying sight to behold both from the ground and from the sky. The ability for the 3 towers to reflect the bay on one side and provide a vertical continuation of greenery via the colourful bougainvilliers on the other, unites the structure with its context. To this end, the combination of skygarden, vertical greenery and a memorable form that has become a 'picture postcard moment' makes it worthy of its place.

Prof. Jason Pomeroy Founding Principal, Pomeroy Studio

Lisbon 2020 2-4 December

Award entries and delegate enquires +44 (0)20 3953 2045 info@worldarchitecturefestival.com Sponsorship opportunities Damien St George +44 (0)20 3953 2789 damien.stgeorge@emap.com

#WAF2020

Founder Partner

Headline partners

MAAT MUSEUM IN LISBON BY AL_A. PHOTOGRAPH BY FERNANDO GUERRA + SÉRGIO GUERRA

Early bird entry deadline: 4 May worldarchitecturefestival.com

#Read Online Free Subscribe To E-Newsletter

Read Now