Pacific Rim Construction
Flooring and wooden interiors handcrafted from the finest quality timber, lovingly handled to ensure all interiors exude timeless luxury and elegance. Discerning clients choose designers who specify wooden floors and interiors which are beautiful, unique, natural, strong and durable. Individual care and craftsmanship by hand are by words for a company that always pursues perfection. Made in Germany. Available in Hong Kong.
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HOLZ SELECTIONS LTD. Exclusive Sales Partner of Schotten & Hansen Showroom: 220 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2833 6069 Email: info@schotten-hansen.com.hk
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BLACK MAGIC DELABIE is weaving - in modern spaces like museums, restaurants, company headquarters, airports, an essential link between design, architecture and functionality. A renewed experience combining performance and elegance, like the new BINOPTIC tag with its black chrome finish.
DELABIE BINOPTIC mixers and taps with matte black chrome finish Already chosen and installed in a variety of public places around the world – Hong Kong International airport, Tai Kwun cultural centre, Abu Dhabi International airport, Paris Charles De Gaulle Airport, the European Metropolis of Lille – BINOPTIC represents a stylish and functional range of electronic taps specifically designed for public and commercial places. Now available in matte black as well, the BINOPTIC range makes its entrance into modern spaces with acclaims after winning the Red Dot prize at the prestigious Red Dot Award: 2021 Product Design competition. Specifically designed for commercial places 100% black chrome technology, providing optimal resistance to intensive use. Total hygiene Fully touchless, BINOPTIC prevents the spread of germs by hand. If a tap is not used regularly, water stagnates in the pipework and bacteria proliferates. To overcome this, BINOPTIC features a periodic duty flush. An automatic flush takes place every 24 hours after the last use. To cap it all, the spout’s interior is smooth and holds very little water. BINOPTIC’s very design avoids bacterial development and therefore provides total hygiene.
90% Water savings In public buildings, water consumption is a major concern. The taps are used intensively and the user can be neglectful (not shutting off the tap after use). The flow rate is 3 lpm and BINOPTIC shuts off automatically resulting in 90% water savings compared to conventional taps. The flow rate on BINOPTIC can be adjusted from 1.5 to 6 lpm in order to adapt to the intended use. Minimal servicing and simple to maintain The spare parts are standardized to ensure quick and easy replacement by maintenance staff. The electronic control unit is fitted with LEDs to aid diagnostic checks. 10-year warranty Nothing is missing from this blend of technologies. Beauty and utility have never been so good together.
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BLACK MAGIC comes with accessories ELECTRONIC SOAP OR HYDROALCOHOLIC GEL DISPENSER 100%Hygiene No manual contact, one-piece cover is easy to clean, bacteriostatic 304 stanless steel. Vandal-resistant No-waste system, lock with standard DELABIE key.
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HIGHFLOW AIR PULSE HAND DRYER HIGH-SPEED High-speed Dries in 10 to 12 seconds, lit central nozzle concentrates pulsed air onto hands at over 230 kilometres per hour. Vandal-resistant Robust design, anti-blocking system, compact.
Comfort Choice of hot or cold air via hidden switch. Hygiene No manual contact, onepiece cover is easy to clean, bacteriostatic 304 stainless steel.
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SPEEDJET 2 AIR PULSE HAND DRYER Energy savings: Heating element stops automatically once room temperature reaches > 25°C.
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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 Account Manager: Howard Tsang, howard@rofmedia.com Tel: (852) 3579 5572 Sales Enquiries: Yannie Yuen, yannie@rofmedia.com Tel: (852) 3150 8988 MICE Manager: Noiz Chu, noiz@rofmedia.com Tel: (852) 3579 5573 Senior Graphic Designer: Ric Sin, studio@rofmedia.com Graphic Designers: Eddie Yue, Michelle Morkel, Kirk Cheong Photographer: Brian Zhang Digital Media Coordinator: Jeffrey Ng Printing: Elegance Printing 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 2021 Ring of Fire Limited
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HK Builder’s Link 2021 has been published. It will be sent industry management in the building & construction industry in Hong Kong, Macau, China and overseas. With eye-catching and user-friendly design, it is a new one-stop advertising and sourcing platform, a directory for building materials and equipment suppliers.
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9
SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC LEADS THE DEVELOPMENT OF SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY
Aedas has won the international competition held by China Resources Land and China Resources Snow Breweries to design a large-scale urban regeneration project. Formerly known as the Baoan No. 2 Kingway Brewery, the China Resources Snow Beer Headquarters Base is located in the core area of Jiangangshan, Baoan, Shenzhen, where high-tech manufacturing industries are gathered. Aedas has transformed the industrial town into an over 870,000 square metre beer-themed city block that incorporates high-rise office and residential towers, research and development centres, factories and breweries, as well as an experiential retail village. The design strives to connect the site to its former identity through the reinterpretation of the fermenting tank ruins, as seen in the towers’ undulating façade. In addition, a ‘City Garden’ that includes extensive greenery is created to provide a balanced work-life urban environment that delivers unforgettable experiences. www.aedas.com
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AEDAS WINS CHINA RESOURCES SNOW BEER HQ BASE INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION
Schneider Electric (SE), the leader in the digital transformation of energy management and automation, has announced its expansion of the electric vehicles (EV) charging networks in Hong Kong, in alignment with its commitment to driving sustainability with innovations and support of the HKSAR government’s roadmap to popularise EVs and its long-term vision in empowering sustainable transport. Currently, SE have already installed over 1,700 EV chargers covering 53 locations in Hong Kong. In 2020, SE announced its membership with The Climate Group’s EV100 initiative to launch a Green Fleet policy which aims to replace 100% of its car fleet with electric vehicles by 2030. Leveraging its recent partnership with Sino Group, SE has expanded its network with another 420+ EV chargers at Grand Central, making it the largest charging facility in East Kowloon. With handover to apartment owners starting in May 2021, Grand Central - the new landmark in Kowloon East - together with the adjacent YM2, bring to the community a 100% EV-empowered carpark with a mix of over 420 Schneider Electric’s semi-fast and fast-charging stations. In addition to making EV charging more accessible and convenient for its residents and the Kwun Tong community, Sino is committed to contributing to the city’s carbon neutrality. President of Schneider Electric Hong Kong, Jonathan Chiu, said: “Moving forward with our commitment to build a net-zero carbon world, Schneider Electric has been taking the lead in promoting sustainable transport by offering best-in-class EV charging solutions to fulfil the needs of the next generation of smarter and cleaner mobility.” www.se.com
4N REVITALISES AND REDESIGNS KENNEDY TOWN’S 2 CATCHICK STREET
Grosvenor Hong Kong has commissioned 4N to revitalise and redesign the ground floors shops and the first-floor retail space of 2 Catchick Street into a community-centric retail and entertainment hub. Derived from the street name, the project is called ‘2CS’ and located in Hong Kong’s old Kennedy Town district that has been undergoing a process of gentrification over the past five to ten years. The designers were challenged to accommodate a large portion of the ground floor space to house a brand-new community cinema, with other areas for retailers, caterers, and other local community service providers to also be integrated. The overall design statement is a monolithic and minimalist addition to the streetscape and neighbourhood, a timeless design that blends into its surroundings. www.4narchitects.com
10 PRESS
ONE SYDNEY HARBOUR BREAKS RECORD AS AUSTRALIA’S MOST EXPENSIVE LUXURY RESIDENTIAL PROJECT
Pritzker Prize winner Renzo Piano has teamed up with Lendlease Group to create and deliver the most expensive luxury residential project ever seen in Australia. Located on the waterfront in the heart of Sydney, One Sydney Harbour is a new trio of towers presenting a heightened benchmark for luxurious residences in a market that now outranks Berlin, Dubai and Shanghai for average luxury prices. As part of the Barangaroo South transformation, the residences are located within the world-class precinct featuring office buildings, restaurants, hotels and natural public realms. The interior designer is the London-based Daniel Goldberg of State of Craft, who formerly collaborated with Renzo Piano on The Shard and Shard Place in London. Breaking records, a three-storey penthouse in the tallest tower sold for AU$140 million, earning the title of Australia’s most expensive home. www.onesydneyharbour.com
‘HIGH-PERFORMING URBAN ECOLOGIES’ INSTALLATION BY ZAHA HADID ARCHITECTS
A$300 MILLION, FOUR-KILOMETRE’ GREENLINE’ PROPOSED FOR MELBOURNE
Image: Dylan Brady
The design for the ‘High-performing Urban Ecologies’ installation by Zaha Hadid Architects for this year’s Italian Pavilion and its ‘Resilient Communities’ exhibition curated by Alessandro Melis for the Venice Architecture Biennale 2021 has been revealed. Presenting the design firm’s Unicorn Island masterplan that is currently under construction in Chengdu, China, the installation incorporates the Alis pod and is situated within the Giardino delle Vergini at the entrance to the Italian Pavilion in Venice. Integrating architecture, engineering and urbanism to develop low carbon solutions that conserve energy and resources, Zaha Hadid Architects’ holistic approach is redefining the built environment’s true measure of efficiency as the improved well-being of its inhabitants. The 17th International Architecture Exhibition runs from 22 May to 21 November 2021 in Venice, Italy. www.zaha-hadid.com
The City of Melbourne has unveiled a new proposal that would see the Northbank precinct completely greenfield, following the confirmation of plans for a new 3,500 square metre riverside park. Expected to cost up to A$300 million, the proposed Greenline project aims to draw more people to the waterfront with a series of connected parklands linking the fourkilometre stretch between Birrarung Marr and the Bolte Bridge. Likening it to the High Line in New York City, Lord Mayor Sally Capp said it would be one of the largest developments Melbourne has undergone since the Southbank Promenade was completed in 1990 and Fed Square opened in 2002. The proposal includes park upgrades, new pedestrian bridges and boardwalks, and native plantings, as well as a greater acknowledgement of the river’s history. www.melbourne.vic.gov.au
11
ATELIER PACIFIC MARKS 25 YEARS IN BUSINESS WITH SHANGHAI STUDIO OPENING
Hong Kong-based multidisciplinary design studio, Atelier Pacific, has announced its first permanent studio outside of the city, with the opening of its new location in Shanghai. Offering a wealth of experience in public space design, including venues as varied as museums, malls and railway stations, the studio aims to bring its expertise to the Greater China region, applying it to the design of spaces for the post-COVID era. In addition to the new opening and as part of the studio’s 25th-anniversary celebrations, Atelier Pacific has collaborated with Hong Kong Tramways to present an ‘Art Tram’, showcasing a number of key projects in the city as part of the milestone. The artistic make-over serves as a thank you to Hongkongers for the opportunities the city has provided. These include Atelier Pacific’s appointment to the team completing Hong Kong’s new museum of visual culture, M+ at West Kowloon. www.atelierpacific.com
SOM AND TRANSYSTEMS LEAD REDESIGN OF CHICAGO’S STATE/LAKE STATION
10 DESIGN GAOXIN HI-TECH COMMERCIAL HUB IN CHINA’S ZHUHAI HIGH-TECH ZONE
The City of Chicago, Chicago Department of Transportation and Chicago Transit Authority have revealed the preliminary design for the city’s State/Lake elevated station and Red Line Connection in the heart of the downtown area. The design is led by SOM, TranSystems and a diverse local consultant team with expertise in transit and historic preservation, and informed input from neighbouring property owners, as well as civic and preservation organisations. The station is the second busiest in the Chicago Transit Authority network, located at a vital junction within the Chicago Loop and serving six of the city’s eight train lines, with further connections to pedestrian and bus routes. The proposed State/Lake Station design includes wider, safer platforms, a sweeping glass canopy to protect passengers from the elements, a new accessible fly-over connection bridge, new elevators for riders of all mobilities to the elevated Red Line platforms, and public realm enhancements at street level. www.som.com
10 Design has completed the Gaoxin High-Tech Commercial Hub, an office development spanning more than 54,000m2 along the shoreline of Tangjia Bay in the Zhuhai High-Tech Zone in China. The developer, Huafa Group, outlined that the brief was to conceive a design concept that encourages a professional and personal experience for entrepreneurs and employees aspiring to a ‘live and work’ lifestyle. The commercial scheme’s typology aims to enhance the social and economic benefits for the high-tech startups intended to invest in the new district. The buildings are structured as two pairs of split volumes with differing heights and orientations, greatly maximising views to the water and naturally weaving opens areas and public spaces throughout. Designing spaces that foster new talent and innovation was a central concept to the project with particular attention paid to flexibility for occupiers and enabling companies to futureproof their workplaces. ww.10design.co
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THE DEVELOPMENT STUDIO INTRODUCES ‘42 TUNG STREET’ IN SHEUNG WAN, HONG KONG
The Development Studio has officially unveiled ‘42 Tung Street’, its latest residential development featuring a timeless, elegant and aesthetically pleasing 23-storey building in Hong Kong’s Sheung Wan. Nestled in the quiet neighbourhood of POHO, the residential scheme provides a place of calm despite being in the city’s urban core. Surrounded by a number of parks, contemporary art galleries and charming restaurants, the location offers a unique character enhanced by green pockets and discoverable hidden alleyways. This project will deliver meticulously crafted two-bedroom simplex apartments and three-bedroom duplex apartments with expansive city views. The scheme is expected to complete at the end of September 2022. The sales office will open to the public from 23 June 2021 at Unit B, UG/F, 49 Hollywood Road, Central. www.thedevelopmentstudio.com
LIVE, WORK AND PLAY: JERDE INTRODUCES NEW PROJECTS AROUND THE WORLD
LWK + PARTNERS DESIGNS WELLNESS LANDSCAPE WITH ARTFUL WATER FEATURES
The LWK + Partners Landscape Team has delivered a healthy and pleasant living environment for the residents of Tianheng Bayview in Zhuhai, China. Inspired by the site’s proximity to the coastline, the landscape design narrative includes an extensive range of water features, plotting fascinating journeys for homecoming residents and those seeking respite in a richly plenished garden. The landscape and gardens for the project are designed and structured to enhance the experience of staying home while fostering smart low-carbon living. For an eco-friendly environment, the designers took references from rainforests. Sustainable materials are adopted along with a sponge city design and porous pavement. As the building industry relies increasingly on interdisciplinary synergy, it is expected that the role of landscape design will continue to expand, making nature and ecology part of city living and promoting sustainable green development. www.lwkp.com
SÄLZER HIGH-LEVEL SECURITY DOORS AND WINDOWS SÄLZER security doors in steel and aluminium for protection against the most diverse threat scenarios with numerous functional combination options and in multiple design variants. Taken as a whole, the “System SÄLZER®“ enables customers and planners to configure almost any of our products with combined security features including forced entry, bullet and blast resistance and in some cases even fire and smoke protection. Furthermore, we have focused on versatility in design, enabling precise adaptation of our security products to individual applications as well as modern and traditional architectural styles. Our proprietary designs more than 250 patents and over 900 test certificates and expert opinions confirm our claim to sustainable security related reliability of our series. www.aub.com.hk
TEMPOMATIC WC DUAL CONTROL WINS MULTIPLE INTERNATIONAL AWARDS
Taking on projects of varying scale and programs, JERDE is introducing new mixed-use, commercial and hospitality projects opening in 2021 around the world that allow societies to live, work and play. Highlight developments include Universal CityWalk at Universal Studios in Beijing (pictured), Powerlong Zhuji Plaza in Zhejiang, Distrito Armida in Monterrey, Peninsula in Tijuana, Powerlong Zhuhai in Guangdong, and Rykadan Office Headquarters in Hong Kong. “As part of our placemaking philosophy at JERDE, we create experiential designs, designs that provide an experience, an emotion. We are trying to create spaces and objects that are attuned to the human emotion so that these spaces are exciting, welcoming, subtly achieving an ultimate goal, and providing wonderful memories,” says Kenneth Ho, JERDE Shareholder and Senior Design Principal based in Singapore. www.jerde.com
DELABIE’s TEMPOMATIC WC Dual Control Electronic Direct Flush Valve is a new revolutionary technology for public and commercial buildings. The innovative design has now garnered the attention of multiple international design awards programs with the German Design Awards, Muuuz International Awards and ICONIC AWARDS, each recognising the TEMPOMATIC DUAL CONTROL system. The direct flush system design protects against the risk of bacterial development.With the flush valve operating without a tank, the system only uses the pressure from the pipes to flush the toilet pan. Without the tank, the product is highly compact and has been acclaimed by architects and designers for its ingenuity and ability to save space. www.delabie.com
15
FIRST INTEGRATED GREEN BUILDING CLOUD DATA PLATFORM LAUNCHED IN HONG KONG
Group Photo of the “Beyond Green with iBEAM” Launch Ceremony BEAM Society Limited (BSL) has announces the launch of iBEAM – the firstever locally developed integrated green building cloud data platform in Hong Kong. iBEAM is capable of analysing 450,000 entries of project data related to built environment and sustainable development every year, which would turn into a data warehouse for the prediction of green building development trends and making visionary suggestions for implementing sustainable development in the industry. iBEAM is a new generation platform that collects, manages, standardises, submits, reports, discloses and processes data related to built environment and sustainable development. Its major features include an Intelligent integration platform, Paperless cloud platform and Reliable and consistent security platform. Chairperson of BSL, Ms Ivy Lee Siu Wing, said: “iBEAM will be the first-ever 24/7 project assessment submission platform in Hong Kong. It enables BSL to streamline BEAM Plus assessment process, enhances BEAM Pro experience and its efficiency, and upholds the core values of BSL – integrity, consistency and transparency. www.beamsociety.org.hk
NET ZERO CARBON EMISSIONS, WATER NEUTRALITY AND ZERO WASTE BY 2050 Swire Pacific has announced a refreshed and expanded sustainable development strategy, SwireTHRIVE 2.0, outlined in its 2020 Sustainable Development Report. The strategy reinforces the company’s longstanding commitment to sustainable development and reflects the need for increased ambition and action from the global business community to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. The latest iteration of SwireTHRIVE builds on the company’s 2016 environmental strategy and covers five priority areas: Climate (decarbonisation and resilience), Waste, Water, People (diversity and inclusion, and health and safety), and Communities. As a group, Swire Pacific commits to achieving the following targets by 2030: 50 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from direct operations (excluding Cathay Pacific’s jet fuel) from a 2018 base year; 27 per cent reduction in water withdrawal from a 2018 frozen efficiency baseline; 55 per cent waste managed by Swire diverted from landfill, and; 30 per cent women in senior management roles by 2024. www.swirepacific.com
HKIDA ANNOUNCES FIRST HONG KONG INTERIOR DESIGN WEEK
GAMMON IN JOINT EFFORT TO BRING OLD BUILDINGS INTO THE FUTURE The Hong Kong Interior Design Association has announced the details of the first ‘Hong Kong Interior Design Week’ to be held between 14 to 22 August 2021. The event will be organised by the association, with Create Hong Kong of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as the Lead Sponsor. Highlights will include forums, an expo and workshops at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, as well as ‘Open House’ visits and the public nomination and voting for the ‘My Favourite Interior Space in Hong Kong’. The event will honour the achievements of local interior design masters and up-and-coming interior design professionals. Chairman of the Hong Kong Interior Design Association, Horace Pan, said that the design week could be regarded as the Art Basel of Hong Kong’s interior design sector. www.hkida.org
Gammon Construction Limited is partnering with Guildhawk, a technologyled language services consultancy, to bring the built environment into the future and help enhance safety through digitisation. Gammon’s partnership with Guildhawk aims to create the smart cities of tomorrow by leveraging innovative technologies to allow cities to operate more intelligently, efficiently and to the benefit of their populations and environments. Guildhawk’s AI technology facilitates multilingual information for built assets and links this data to newly created digitised versions of manuals or PDF drawings. This technology enables the optimisation of all interactions with these buildings, whether in terms of access to and sharing of data, avoidance of costly errors, or insights into more efficient maintenance. The partnership has been working to bring old buildings into the future through digitisation. The resulting solution complements Gammon’s existing innovation offering and will help to expedite the creation of tomorrow’s smart cities. www.gammon.com
BURO HAPPOLD ANNOUNCES CHANGE TO LEADERSHIP WITH NEW CEO James Bruce has been announced as Buro Happold’s new Chief Executive Officer and Global Managing Director, strengthening the firm’s global presence with a focus on creating a better, more sustainable world. The 2,000-person global engineering and consulting practice also confirmed the appointment of New York-based Craig Schwitter as Senior Partner and Chair of the Global Board. The announcement comes as Buro Happold also elevated 17 senior firm members to the rank of partner. Among the firm’s new leaders in the United States are two prominent women practitioners known as leaders in innovative structural engineering and sustainable, high-performance built environments. www.burohappold.com
16 FEATURE
LEAD8 EXPANDS PRESENCE IN GREATER BAY AREA Delivering competitive, cutting-edge design across Greater China Lead8 is bolstering its international network with the opening of a new design studio in Shenzhen; expanding the firm’s footprint around the globe. The new studio will work closely with firm’s headquarters in Hong Kong and its team of more than 250 specialists, providing comprehensive services to expand Lead8’s presence and platform in Asia and the communities in which it works. Building upon an impressive company history, Lead8’s expansion coincides with the firm’s recent entrance in the world’s top 100 architecture firms, the WA100 published by Building Design. As the firm illuminates its presence on the international stage, Lead8’s Co Founders share their vision for the future and the projects defining the next chapter in Greater China.
Text & Images: Lead8
Jasper Lau
A NEW CHAPTER IN SHENZHEN BAY
S
henzhen Bay is familiar territory for Lead8. At the base of the firm’s new studio in the China Resources Tower sits the multi-awardwinning MixC development that is a defining portfolio piece for the team. “To have our studio based next to one of our own award-winning developments helps clients to experience the impact of our designs firsthand. With our team now on the ground in China, we can further support leading developers to push new boundaries,” says Claude Touikan, Lead8 Co Founder & Executive Director.
17
The expansion will support Lead8 as it prepares to welcome 10 new project openings in Greater China and extend its portfolio to more than 45 cities across the mainland in 2021.
IDEAS FOR THE NEXT GENERATION Across the burgeoning Greater Bay Area, Lead8 is making its mark as it confirms a growing number of high-profile and sector-defining commissions. The transformation of Shenzhen’s 500-year-old ‘Old Hubei Village’ as part of a major regional, cultural, commercial and tourism destination is one of the most significant undertakings. The Hubei Coordination Urban Renewal Scheme is one of the largest urban regeneration schemes in Shenzhen. Lead8 was appointed following an international design competition to deliver the connective design for the project. The overall retail planning and retail architecture by Lead8 will link Old Hubei Village with the mixed-activity programme featuring more than 25 towers and five underground metro stations.
“Our perception of ‘experience’ and how our built environments can deliver it is being dramatically altered. Delivering Hong Kong’s most comprehensive RDE destination showcases the creative power of our team and how our designs are addressing the industry’s future needs,” said Claude Touikan, Co Founder & Executive Director at Lead8. Fueling by evolving technology, increased competition and post-pandemic aspirations, the next generation of experiential environments are driving the development agenda. Designs may be dominating drawing boards, but Lead8 is ahead of the curve, seeing vision turn to completion. This year, the firm celebrated the opening of its biophilic retail experience set within a mutli-level living garden. Known as The Ring, the destination is a firstof-its-kind for Chongqing – a place that intertwines retail, nature, culture and experience. Animated by a 42-metre-tall botanical garden, interactive sports and culture programming, and a creative tenant mix, The Ring provides attractions not yet seen before in the city.
“Urban regeneration brings a new perspective to how we are readying and preparing our cities for the generations to come,” said Simon Chua, Co Founder & Executive Director at Lead8. “Unlocking historic urban environments, making them more accessible, interconnected and experiential, allows them to survive and thrive.”
“We are all experiencing this change in attitude towards placemaking and the evolution of ‘development’ to ‘ecosystem’. These new slivers of city, like The Ring, are trying to maximise the use of nature and landscape and the power of biophilia as we reimagine the possibilities within commercial developments,” said David Buffonge, Co Founder & Executive Director,
DESIGN THAT GOES BEYOND
TRANSFORMING OUR FUTURE
Within the Greater Bay Area, another development is breaking convention and achieving what no other has done so far. 11 SKIES at Hong Kong International Airport’s SKYCITY is the largest Retail-Dining-Entertainment (RDE) hub to be developed in the city. At the cost of HK$20 billion, the mixed-use destination will also be the first to combine wealth management and wellness services into such a scheme. The destination will feature 2.66 million sqft dedicated to dining and retail outlets and 570,000 sqft for experiential entertainment facilities. There will be over 800 shops, including more than 120 dining concepts together with entertainment never seen before in the region, all under one roof.
As they prepare for the next chapter, Lead8 is positioning its team and portfolio to new heights, pushing further into new realms and geographies. As described by Christine Hau, Co Founder & Executive Director, “The world is changing and the design industry is at the forefront of imagining our future. The post-COVID era is accelerating the adoption of new thinking and innovation, and we are collaborating closely with the developers and city makers that are delivering truly ground-breaking change. From regeneration to wellness, green living, and walkable neighbourhoods; Lead8 is working to push the agenda for a better tomorrow.”
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in Hong Kong’s New Territories
The retail industry has been hard hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, but the Town Centre at Fairview Park – Hong Kong’s largest low density residential estate – has brought new life to its community, by featuring a green and natural theme to reflect the project’s unique open-air design. Fairview Park Town Centre
Rebranding with art and nature
he shopping mall underwent its first major renovation since the pioneering development was completed in the 1980s. And the timing couldn’t be better. What better place to shop in these strange times than in a centre designed to provide a unique open air shopping experience to the customers.
Aside from the aims of increasing customer footfall and spending during weekdays, the upgrade was also designed to encourage residents to spend more leisure time in the Town Centre.
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Fairview Park is situated at the northwest end of New Territories of Hong Kong, next to the famous Mai Po Wetland. At a distance from the city’s sprawling and densely populated urban district, it is special for its tranquil environment. With a population of over 15,000 and located close to the Mai Po Wetland Reserve, the Fairview Park development is popular with families and retirees who appreciate nature and open space. It also boasts one of the largest private artificial lakes in Hong Kong, now wellknown for its black and white swans. At its core is the Fairview Park Town Centre, a 100,000 square foot GFA integrated community shopping centre, developed and managed by Fairland Resources Ltd, and designed to serve the residents of 5,000 house units and customers from the surrounding area. The Town Centre’s design is quite unique as an ‘open air’ shopping centre with many smaller blocks creating a ‘shopping village’ typology. But with no major renovation since the 1980’s it was becoming quite dated and stagnant, and needed a significant upgrade to re-attract customers and compete with new shopping malls opening nearby. Text: ROF Media
Images: ROF Media & Fairview Park
Jasper Lau
Step one involved repositioning the once uninviting shopfront entrances for one of the blocks, where the shopfronts originally faced a narrow interior hallway. A bold move to remove the interior hallway was made, flipping the shopfront entrances to face the exterior. This has significantly increased tenants’ visibility and accessibility, bringing more energy to the premises. The next move was to upgrade the overall exterior of the blocks, replacing blank walls with custom-designed green geometric patterns, designed to enhance visual interest and promote a feeling of freshness and variety. The changes now reflect the beauty of the natural and outdoor setting. Concealing the parapet wall with bamboo planters was one way to create a natural green wall which further strengthens the green theme. But perhaps one of the most significant visual changes was achieved through the hiring of two of Hong Kong’s prominent mural artists who were commissioned to create artworks reflecting the natural beauty of the area on two of the once stale and blank corner walls. Each artwork has a unique style, but both reflect the natural and outdoor characteristics of Fairview Park, including the unique features
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of the lake. The murals have transformed the Town Centre and added visual interest to spaces which were previously home to a blank canvas. Footfall has increased and many people can be seen taking time out to photograph the artwork as well as enjoying the fresh air and relaxed open space.
Designing social space Improvement of the social spaces was a significant factor in the upgraded design. And while creating space for gatherings was part of the original brief, the Town Centre’s original sunken plaza was hindered by multiple flag poles being placed right in the centre of the plaza. Removal of the flag poles and the repaving of the entire plaza has not only resulted in an increase in the flow of people to the space, but will allow for hosting more events. The upgrade also addressed the lack of seating in the Town Centre, which was inconvenient for the elderly and those with children or large shopping bags. The two-tone surface and use of artificial green turf has made the space much more inviting and has created much more visual interest, where people, young and old, can enjoy additional outdoor seating and children’s play areas. On the tenanting front, Fairland Resources has also made the bold move of adding three new restaurant outlets to increase dining options for customers.
The goal of the refurbishment was always to increase the synergy of the Town Centre’s retail and community spaces. The renovations, which were completed throughout the first half of 2020, have been a success in this regard. There is no doubt that the renovations have made a difference in convincing customers that the Fairview Park Town Centre is a lively and pleasant environment to spend time with family, and the place will surely continue to thrive as a shopping destination for the community.
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7-9/9/2021 | HKCEC
7-9/9/2021
HKCEC | 香港會議展覽中心
Situated at the forefront of innovative retail solutions, Retail Asia Conference & Expo (RACE) is a must-attend event that brings together the brightest minds in the retail industry to explore revolutionary ideas and cutting-edge technologies to ride the new wave of consumerism in Asia. 亞洲零售論壇暨博覽會是亞洲首屈一指的零售業展覽，致力為區内零售商提供高效解決方案。 展覽匯聚多名業界領袖，啓發創新思維並聚焦高端科技，助零售商應對亞洲新消費模式帶來的 機遇和挑戰。
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Asia Hospitality and Retail Design Awards 亞洲款待及零售設計大獎 Jointly presented by RACE and PRC Magazine, the Awards recognise the most innovative and sustainable designs for hotels, shopping malls, retail stores, etc. 由RACE和PRC雜誌合辦，旨在表揚創新及貫徹 可持續理念的設計項目，包括酒店、購物中心、 零售商店等。
Retail Asia Conference 亞洲零售論壇
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A full conference programme packed with high level keynotes and lively round table discussions on the greatest challenges and opportunities facing the retail industry.
An interactive sharing platform where market leaders take the stage to present their latest technologies and best in-house practices.
一眾業內權威將深入探討零售業面對的挑戰與 機遇，帶來前瞻性的科技及解決方案。
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Eligible local exhibitors can apply for the "SME Export Marketing Fund" . 合資格的本地參展商可申請「中小企業市場 推廣基金」。
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7-9 SEP 2021 | HKCEC
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19TH-CENTUR Y W O ODBLOCK PRINT INSPIR E S M O DERN TOYKO APARTMENTS In te rn a ti o n a l a rc h it e ct u re a nd de completed its la test project in To si g n p ra ct ic e , C o n ra n a n d Pa r tn e rs, h a s kyo, a sensitive stone’s throw fr ly conceived re om the main Oly si d ential scheme a mpic stadium.
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he striking project, comprising 15 apartments across seven storeys, is located in the upmarket Kita Aoyama district of the Japanese capital. The design takes inspiration from a 19th-century woodblock print, ‘Cushion pine at Aoyama’, by the celebrated Japanese artist Katsushika Hokusai.
VISUAL ILLUSION Located at the junction of narrow, domestic-scale streets, the seven-storey building’s stepped form is respectful of its neighbours, allowing sunlight to penetrate to street level. The structure’s recessive massing means that pedestrians are aware only of the first three storeys – the cascading greenery of trees and shrubs hinting at more to be found above. The upper floors are stepped back dramatically, visible only from the upper floors of adjacent buildings. The design has created generous terraces where the extensive planting ensures that the outdoor spaces below are protected from those above, creating privacy for all residents. In fact, the concrete and stone building takes its form from a ziggurat, an ancient pyramid-like structure, that emulates the hillside where cushion pines grow, as depicted in Hokusai’s artwork. The structure subtly changes at these higher levels from a fair-faced concrete grid to a black steel-clad post-and-beam design above. The structure on all levels is expressed with a robust and visual assurance that the building is earthquakeproof whilst serving to complement the abundant Japanese-style landscaping that characterises the design. At ground level, walled gardens provide private spaces of calm for residents occupying the lower levels of the building. Mature trees have been planted, offering shade, colour and seasonality to the street.
Information & Photos: Conran & Partners
Krista Chan
The design director of the project, Tim Bowder-Ridger, Principal at Conran and Partners, explains, “This project encapsulates a holistic approach through its architecture and interior design, linked by the spaces running between the various elements of the development, internally and externally. The result is an overall spatial experience, creating a continuous journey from the street to the home through a hierarchy of spaces and layers.”
JOURNEY THROUGH MATERIALITY The apartments are unusually large for Tokyo. The design approach recognises the cultural need for privacy in a densely built and populated city. This is illuminated in the journey from the public street through the semi-public reception and to the private doors of each of the apartments. The materiality of this journey is expressed by moving stone and concrete to timber-lined lift-cars and corridor spaces, where softly-pooled lighting provides a subtle orientation to the apartment front doors. Once inside, the hierarchy of public and private continues, with circulation routes and distinct zoning ensuring the formal separation of guest spaces to those that are private. Entrance halls, known locally as ‘genkan’, are generous enough to enable hosts to comfortably greet their guests and remove shoes before they are led to the main living spaces, reflecting the welcome ritual of Japanese homes. Both the living spaces and bedrooms offer timber-framed views of the external, planted terraces, the generosity of which is a rare amenity in Tokyo’s density. Winter gardens provide a transitional space between the internal and external areas. In total, the building responds to its immediate built context in scale and massing while offering a unique addition to the location. As Bowder-Ridger concludes, “Our approach is a focused design response to the physical, historical and cultural context of the location, creating a definitive sense of place for the residents.”
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Two residential projects formerly shortlisted at World Architecture Festival are showcasing the contrasting ways in which residential design can respond to its surroundings – from a slow project that evolves with the landscape to one that defies typical coastal architecture.
Text: ROF Media
Photos: Woods Bagot
Jasper Lau
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t Andrews Beach Villa and Tidal Arc House are situated along Australia’s rugged southern coastline, and their two different approaches have come from the studios of the same Australian design firm, Woods Bagot.
St Andrews Beach Building amongst the sand dunes and on the edge of a delicate national park ecosystem requires a discrete sensitivity gained over time. To achieve a sympathetic balance with architecture, it takes acute awareness of every living detail, including all the seasonal nuances and changing weather conditions of a coastal environment. The St Andrews Beach Villa site on the Mornington Peninsula along the Victorian coast in Australia is subject to these very conditions, extreme wind patterns and spectacular weather formations. Here, the retrospective and contemporary design of the private residence demonstrates the enduring potential of architecture and its ability to respond to climatic and natural diversity. The project commenced in 1999 and has been built across three main phases. It started as a humble elevated timber-clad shack; 13 years later an outdoor north facing pool and cabana were introduced to provide wind protection. Finally, in 2019 the main stair under croft was added to increase bedroom capacity and dual-level living separation. After 20 years of these incremental and significant additions, various manipulations, and a weather-worn patina, the St Andrews Villa has settled into its natural and adjusted landscape to become one with its overall context. It now frames and is part of the undulating landscape. The building has changed over time from a shack to a villa. The three construction phases have represented gradual tunings as more knowledge of the landscape was understood. Developing in this progressive manner, the designers responded to the continuing weathering of materials in the extreme salt blasted atmosphere. The resilience and defiance of the hardwood jarrah timber and non-ferrous metals have aged in sympathy with the local windblown tea tree and native grass vegetation. St Andrews Beach Villa makes a compelling case for slow projects that evolve over time and surpass the intent of their original conception. With the project now finally bringing its three phases into balance, those residing in the building can experience the southern tempestuous weather ferocity, the blissful northern daylight and a protective neutral bunkered under croft. Together, they create a trilogy, balancing personal intensity, a healthy wellness aspect and protected contemplation. This progressive design evolution ensured the building was tuned to both its users and environment. With the haste at which projects are being built and occupying the earth’s surface, slowing down the process can mean buildings can become much more than their initial intent.
St Andrews Beach
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Tidal Arc House Confidently anchored on the cliff edge of a small Morning Peninsula town in Australia, Tidal Arc House is redefining how architects respond to the country’s coastal landscape. Steadily settling into the contours of the ridge, the sinuous three-storey dwelling hangs onto the curved landscape in a neighbourhood with predominately traditional English cottages and timber box houses. Every design decision has been entirely sitespecific. While the focus of the design is its placement in the site, the defining idea is movement. Like the regular in and out of tides, the building arcs both inwards for protection and outwards to maximise views. Two concentric volumes encased in limestone treated with a natural clamshell pattern are asymmetrically stacked on top of each other. Both the exterior and twisted geometry are allusions to the natural environment. The encrusted surface refers to the local coral reefs dating back to the Jurassic periods while the torqued geometry looks like two basalt rocks sliding against each other from a volcanic eruption—which formed the bluffs of this peninsula. The cliffsides’ geology contains both limestone and basalt. There are no parallel curves on the project and no right angles. The interior is organised across a series of radiating beams into which much of the discrete lighting is located or concealed. The beams have three origins and create a series of segmented ceiling patterns from which the entire planning organisation emerges. The four-bedroom family home is zoned in two living areas and separate bedroom suites. Each living level compresses and opens out to the sky, enveloping inhabitants in the exhilarating impact of the location and connecting them to nature. Exquisitely crafted, this is a self-assured home that deals in two scales – one in balance to the overall coastal landscape, and the other at a more intimate and tactile level to function in full family mode. Moving away from the colonial planning grid and local timber clad cottages of the area, Woods Bagot is changing the Australian beach house vernacular with this residence that showcases its sensitivity to the specific and majestic topographical context.
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Tidal Arc House
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Perched on the mountain above Lantau Island’s Cheung Sha Beach, is Mt. La Vie, a new ultraluxury residential enclave set to leave an enduring mark on Hong Kong’s real estate map. The site's lush greenary, mountainous landscape (and a hint of sea breeze) has all informed the concept of Mt. La Vie. lts six exclusive private homes are set to redefine the benchmark for uber-high-end villas within this distinctive location. Text: ROF Media
Photos: URBANPROJECTS
Derek Leung
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It was always our intent, due to the exclusive nature of the site and the demographic of our target buyers, that Mt. La Vie should be a unique development, unlike anything currently available in Hong Kong. Mt. La Vie, will act as a ‘symbol of intent’ for Sino-Ocean. It was important that, as the one of the first projects in Hong Kong solely under our brand, this should become a landmark. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and the quality of our developments, these attributes are plain to see in Mt. La Vie.”
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ehind the prominent design is URB ANPROJECTS, a boutique architectural practice founded in 2003. Known for their high-end hospitality and residential portfolio, particularly in mainland China, this is the practice's first major villa project in the city. The practice is particularly known for its environmental and contextual response to design and has built a formidable portfolio of work over the years. Based on their expertise managing complex site conditions, requiring ‘out-ofthe-box’ thinking, URBANPROJECTS was appointed and entrusted by SinoOcean Group to deliver what is the developer's first venture into low density residential development in Hong Kong.
Balancing architectual and natural environments "I was immediately taken by the mature trees, entwined undergrowth and rocky outcrops when I first visited the site," says Forhad Ullah, Managing Director at URBANPROJECTS. Ullah, who founded the firm and has led the design team for Mt. La Vie, shares his insight with PRC Magazine as to how the design and development process evolved. "We knew from the start that we wanted to protect the intrinsic beauty of the landscape, blending our architecture into nature as much as possible. Through our design, we wanted to find the most harmonious balance and distribution of built and natural environments across the site." Working within the land's topography, Mt. La Via is a collection of luxurious residential villas that are perceptively stepped into Lantau Island's mountainside. Moving away from the repetitious approach so common in the region, the model is similar to a European hill town where each element conforms to its own particular morphology within the group. The result is an almost ‘accidental’ juxtaposition of built form and landscape, a harmony between architecture and nature.
Sino-Ocean’s brief, at the outset of the design process, was somewhat flexible (limitations on GFA, site coverage and building height were, of course, defined in the lease conditions). URBANPROJECTS, in close collaboration with the owner and sub-consultants, was given some freedom to explore ideas, massing, planning strategy, landscape, orientation etc. The final scheme envisaged six detached houses arrayed across the site, ranging between 400 and 700 square metres in GFA, each distinct and unique unto itself.
Residences immersed in nature The journey through the project begins at the main gate which opens along a public access road, serving an older, adjacent corporate retreat owned by HSBC. From the gate and entry pavilion, a gently curving access way climbs slowly up through the exclusive development.This is the central spine of Mt. La Vie, an organic strand upon which all the residences are set, like precious gems on a necklace.
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The villas are arranged to 'plug-in' to this central spine at various levels, matching the mountain's existing contour lines. Exploiting these dramatically dancing elevations has created a deliberate identity/charater, breaking down rooflines and avoiding repetition. "It was critical for us to exploit the forest views, as well as the longer distance views over the ocean, at every opportunity," explains Ullah. "The development should feel rooted within its context and take visual ownership of the extraordinary neighourhood that envelops it." Each villa has been considered as a semi-independent art piece within Mt. La Vie. Villas 1 and 2, the premier ‘courtyard houses’, are the largest and most advantageously sited (at the highest elevations) benefiting from uninterrupted views across Cheung Sha Bay to the southwest. These villas are influenced by traditional Chinese courtyard housing, each comprising three pavilions around an open-air communal space. The main living areas are arrayed around this central garden, complete with a private swimming pool. The courtyards open out into the forest, taking visual ownership of the unspoiled landscape beyond the site boundary. One of the most appealing points is Villa 3, accessible via a private vehicular and pedestrian ramp. Like the larger residences, the massing is broken down, this time into two pavilions, pivoted around a central staircase atrium. The volumes have been positioned to maximise their engagement with the forest and garden that lies to the south. At the heart of the enclave is Villa 5, it deliberately contrasts with the other, ‘perimeter’ residences. This house is integrated with a central landscaped garden, for the amenity of the Mt. La Vie residents. This villa's three organic, cantilevered, white ‘ribbon’ terraces emerge from the landscape, avoiding a ‘canyon effect’ with neighbouring residences, and creating an exceptionsl natural amphitheatre at the core of the development.
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We embarked on the project design with an open mind and worked closely with URBANPROJECTS, to develop an aesthetic which would enhance the natural environment of the site, this was the key. At the outset we understood that the site was our greatest asset; its natural beauty, its orientation ‘between ocean and mountain’, had to be respected and enhanced by any development. Mt. La Vie is completely ‘site specific’. The relationship between architecture and land is symbiotic.
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“ Two more sizeable houses, villas 6 and 7, complete the collection. Villa 6, located at the north boundary focuses exclusively onto the forest and mountain beyond. Villa 7, the only ‘landlocked’ home is bounded either side by Villas 6 & 2. The tiered volumes acting as a counterpoint to Villa 5. "Each house relates to its surrounding and maximises its interaction with nature. The buildings have their own veranda facing towards the beach and the mountain, with panoramic sea views from each rooftop," says Ullah. "While we approached each villa individually, we also considered the development as a distinguished neighbourhood. To ensure the residences belong together, we relied on a premium selection of materials and architectural forms to truly define Mt. La Vie."
Contours of the South Lantau Coast From the outset, the URBANPROJECT's vision was to give the Cheung Sha project a unique aesthetic identity, moving away from the predominant styles, ‘French’, ‘Spanish’, ‘Mediterranean’ etc., in vogue with other developments in the region. "To live in harmony with nature yet be seamlessly close to the metropolis of Hong Kong is truly a distintive combination. Therefore, our approach to the architecture is a pragmatic ‘soft contemporary’ style, not imposing itself on the landscape but enhancing and complementing its surroundings," says Ullah. The architecture is composed using advanced principles of structure and a chromatic palette embedded in the natural materials particular to the location. Each house appears to "rise" from the earth on its stone base walls; organic and dense, the design follows the natural contours of the site to create layers at various levels for the villas. These stone facade extend into the landscape walls, a common thread that unifies the development. Above the organic base, dressed yellow granite, natural render and highlights of composite timber cladding intertwine in their own defined compositions to feature individual villas. High performance, double-glazed, curtainwall and windows have been used to complete the palette, enhance the energy-efficiency, and ensure spectacular views from the residences. Through Mt. La Vie, URBANPROJECTS has delivered a new benchmark for ultra luxury residential in Hong Kong; one that seeks, not only to come to terms with its environment, but place it at the very heart of the design's aesthetic. "Through this project we were afforded our own ‘luxury’ as designers; an opportunity to stand out from the Hong Kong residential market. With our client’s trust, we have demonstrated what is possible when you allow the landscape to facilitate the evolution of the brief. For Mt. La Vie, the beauty of the South Lantau Coast is not just to be viewed but also experienced." concludes Ullah.
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NWD Extends Portfolio of Curated Homes N ew Wo r l d D eve l o p m e n t (NWD) recently released two new properties to the market from the Group’s signature Ar tisanal Movement, each initiated and curated by Chief Executive Officer Adrian Cheng. Atrium House in Yuen Long comes from the Greatness Collection and Timber House in Ho Man Tin from the Bohemian Collection.
Information : New World Development Photos: Kevin Mak
Atrium House
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he 23-storey Atrium House infuses traditional Chinese architecture with contemporary design aesthetics to present a modern Chinese style. Taking inspiration from the traditional blue brick houses and the signature walled villages within the local community, the design team has incorporated traditional Chinese Siheyuan architecture with authentic blue brick elements. This unique combination offers a blend of exquisite craftsmanship and modern innovative technology to create a comfortable living space that gently invites the residents to explore the relationship between people, nature, and architecture.
The Blue Bricks have a long histor y of maintaining a gentle humidity and internal residential climate and were the main building materials of ancient Chinese architecture. However, since bricks need to go through a complicated production process, modern buildings rarely incorporate such traditional building materials nowadays. In keeping with New World’s dedication to preserving local cultures, the design of the development perfectly demonstrates the Group's unique Artisanal Living concept that integrates art, culture, design, and modern intelligence to create harmonious lifestyles that adapt and respect the local neighbourhood. The Atrium House is endowed with a deep sense of heritage with traditional Chinese design elements applied throughout.
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Space, natural wind, and light are the key considerations in traditional Chinese architecture. 7-meter-high wood-printed double metal gates greet residents, the entrance evoking the front gate of a Chinese Courtyard (Siheyuan). Ceramic tiles and hand-woven traditional oriental screen frames in the lift lobby suggest life in historical Chinese times. With a “Change of scenery at every step, so every step makes a difference” concept, the design team of The Courtyard, the residences’ 558 square metre clubhouse, a collaboration between NWD and renowned designers, AGC and VIA Architecture, created a contemporary reinterpretation of a vernacular courtyard house featuring a sequence of living and leisure areas arranged around an 18-metre swimming pool.
Timber House The 24-storey Timber House combines modern technology with traditional craftsmanship to create unique homes that are filled with personalized elements. Curated by New World Development (NWD) Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Cheng, together with award-winning Hong Kong design houses AGC Design Ltd, Adrian L. Norman Ltd and NC Design & Architecture Ltd., the single-block Timber House lies in the prestigious area of Ho Man Tin and epitomizes the originality of NWD’s exclusive Artisanal Living style. Inspired by the area’s unique geography, the design team made full use of the surroundings to incorporate an innovative Tree House concept as a design blueprint throughout the property. With creative craftsmanship ranging from the entrance and clubhouse to the apartments, the tranquil residence is filled with lush greenery to lure residents into an adventurous ‘Curiosity with Nature’ journey that repositions modern city living.
Forest and treehouse elements are incorporated throughout the residence with the aim of building a tranquil residence in the midst of a bustling downtown area. Highlighting the main design concept, the retaining wall is covered with climbing plants as a background to an iconic Nordic-style glass treehouse at the main entrance, next to an 8-meter-high evergreen Autumn Maple. Timber House features an innovative vertical garden design along with a glass façade, while gardens on each floor are planted with native greenery and small shrubs are also planted on every fourth floor. The overall curved design adds a rich three-dimensional visual effect to the building facade. In addition, the building also features a stilted floor design to enhance natural lighting and ventilation efficiency throughout the property. The rooftop garden overlooks the West Kowloon skyline and is planted with a variety of unique species. The Treehouse Club is the 405 square metre residential clubhouse that is designed with a flexible configuration including movable bi-folding doors and partitions to accommodate residents’ requirements for different occasions. The elevator is operated by a touchless feature, minimising any potential transmission of germs and bacteria. One of the patented applications includes MIRROR®, a mixed-use mirror complex equipped with a USB hub that is ideal for city dwellers with busy schedules. The New World Group has developed a series of people-oriented home designs that keep pace with the times and integrate appreciation and functionality with the Group’s accumulated architectural wisdom and understanding of Hong Kong people’s lifestyles, allowing residents to start enjoying a better smart home life from the moment they arrive.
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美加綠化
Canica Building Materials Limited
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"We started this project from a place of profound respect for the building's heritage, and detailed research into its history, including all of the changes made to it over the years. We are not only returning the building to its former glory, but also adapting it and making it relevant for future generations," said Frank Mahan, Associate Director of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill.
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beacon of timeless glamour and luxury for nearly a century – the Waldorf Astoria opened on Park Avenue in 1931 as the largest and tallest hotel in the world. Today it stands as New York City's most prominent privately-owned landmark and holds a special place in the hearts of New Yorkers and visitors from across the globe. Now, for the first time in its storied history, buyers can own their own home at the Towers of Waldorf Astoria, with an unprecedented and sensitive restoration at the hands of renowned architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and developer Dajia Insurance Group. The design and development team have paid great attention to the original Art Deco design, investing years of work to understand the building's history and maintain its heritage for future generations. As part of this scope, expert preservationists have focused on restoring the hotel's unique artefacts. The famed Spirit of Achievement statue that graced the Park Avenue entrance, the World's Fair Clock, and acclaimed American composer Cole Porter's own 1907 Steinway grand piano, will all be returned to their places of prominence.
Information: Waldorf Astoria New York
Complementing the Building's History Inside the development, the sophisticated residential interiors and amenities are being overseen by internationally renowned Jean-Louis Deniot, creating a modern experience within the building's historical framework. The designer has carefully considered each detail, designing his own custom creations for The Towers that include: solid custom-panelled interior doors with bespoke antique bronze hardware, custom cabinets manufactured by Molterni&C in Italy, vanities with polished marble countertops, custom forged polished nickel fixtures, and tile mosaics featuring a Waldorf Astoria-inspired pattern. The design is done with a nod to French Art Deco, complementing the building's history. "The interiors will reflect the magnificence of the past mixed with today's great sense of energy. They will be grand and playful, all highly inviting, with many elements of surprise and excitement," said Jean-Louis Deniot. The full block property, which will include 375 condominium residences and the 375-key Waldorf Astoria New York hotel, is set to welcome residents and guests in early 2023.
Photos: Noë & Associates / The Boundary
Jasper Lau
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Singapore’s Holland Village Welcomes New Neighbourhood Development
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he One Holland Village Residences have launched to the public in Singapore’s equivalent of Notting Hill, a neighbourhood rich with shophouses, eclectic charm and laidback ambience. Like fellow famous districts around the world, Holland Village has built a reputation for its history, stylish architecture, diverse art and culinary scene – attracting visitors and residents with a character that is not easily replicated. The new residential development is part of a broader mixed-use scheme, a concept that brings together private residences, serviced residences, retail, office and community spaces. One Holland Village Residences’ unique proposition is more than its inclusion within a thriving mixed-use development, however. By embracing the broader Holland Village and Chip Bee Gardens, residents and visitors are able to enjoy the wider offerings this endearing neighbourhood has to offer.
Distinctive Selection of Designs As part of the design, One Holland Village Residences has created not one, but three distinctive offerings: Sereen, well-designed apartments that offer a tranquil space to unwind; Quincy Private Residences, an exclusive selection of luxury apartments with private lift access and concierge services at a high vantage point; and Leven, limited-edition contemporary, low-rise abodes inspired by the quaint walk-up apartments in Tiong Bahru and Chip Bee Gardens. The wide-scale, multi-use development has been cleverly designed around a Village Green and Village Square, a cosy pocket park and outdoor market and concert space. Both located within the commercial scheme, they form a landscaped and animated zone that is separated from the private residences, ensuring that residents can still enjoy quiet and tranquillity in the comfort of their homes. Developed by Far East Organization, together with its joint venture partners Sekisui House and Sino Group.The comprehensive One Holland Village scheme will be completed in two phases. The residential zone comprising serviced residences and One Holland Village Residences is estimated to finish by the end of 2024. The commercial zone, with its retail, office and community programming, is scheduled to be completed by the middle of 2022. Information & Images: Far East Organization
Krista Chan
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48 FEATURE
A Curated Community Centred on Co-Creation This July Hong Kong Science Park (HKSP) welcomes its first tenants to InnoCell, a smart living and co-creation space offering 392 fully furnished residential units and 509 bed spaces to local and overseas incubatees and start-ups.
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ith a gross floor area of 15,300 square metres, the 17-storey development, situated at HKSTP’s Pak Shek Kok campus in the New Territories, is designed to provide an environment where likeminded people can live, interact and collaborate. With a design inspired by the ethos of HKSTP’s “Work.Live.Play.Learn.” culture, InnoCell provides tenants with a choice of four types of living accommodation – The Solo, The Twin, The Powerhub and The Suite – centred around a broad range of communal and ancillary areas, including work/meeting spaces, bars and function rooms, communal cooking and dining rooms, games and music rooms, a gymnasium, laundry and roof gardens for social gatherings and urban farming. Green and open communal spaces form a significant part of the design, and are subtly incorporated to promote and facilitate a healthy lifestyle and to enhance social cohesion. It is a new take on an old theme, where tenants are invited to become part of a larger community, and encouraged to leave behind the constraints of traditional living and embark on a journey towards living a more collaborative, efficient and environmentally aware lifestyle.
Project For lead architectural consultant Leigh & Orange, (L&O), InnoCell is the epitome of innovation in construction. It is also the first high-rise steel Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) building in Hong Kong. Indeed, according to a spokesperson for L&O, use of this technology has not only improved the quality of the fit-out, optimised design coordination and construction safety, and reduced wastage and construction challenges. It has also proven to shorten construction time by five months. Text: Elizabeth Dooley
Photos: L&O
Derek Leung
Use of environmentally friendly materials and finishes enhance the life-cycle of the building and bode well for future maintenance, with 50% of timber and composite timber products being FSC certified, as well as 10% of building materials coming from recycled sources. Another key feature is the resulting optimal daylight throughout the interior, achieved through careful positioning on the site. Inspired by the shape of a windmill, the communal areas that form the core of the building are surrounded by residential units positioned in a triangular form, in order to encourage tenants to step out from the traditional habitation units to spark collaboration. A natural colour palette lies at the heart of the interior design concept, which through its open communal spaces is focused on creating a seamless and coherent structure designed to complement the architect’s vision of a selfsufficient community where residents can enjoy privacy within their modular living quarters whilst being closely connected within the diverse range of coworking and co-living spaces provided.
Building Information Modelling (BIM) & Sustainability Safety, quality and productivity lie at the heart of the development’s design, and L&O and other leading consultants to the project have collaborated closely on the BIM since the early design stage. Indeed, as the single source of information, all coordination footpaths and spatial geometries were well recorded in the BIM model prior to construction. L&O reports that the use of MiC reduced construction time by around 38%, while the carbon emission during transportation was reduced by 75%, as the adoption of cargo ships for mass delivery significantly diminished the transportation fuel consumption. Similarly, on-site air pollution (particulate matter) and non-inert waste was dramatically lowered compared to traditional cast-in-site constructed building by 50% and 60% respectively. In addition, operable windows on the communal areas of each floor provide valuable cross ventilation, while eco-balconies facing the prevailing wind direction facilitate the cooling of air prior to entering the communal areas. For L&O, the successful incorporation of passive and active building design has resulted in InnoCell being awarded the highest rating in the BEAM Plus rating system – the BEAM Plus-NB [v1.2] Provisional Platinum. Furthermore, the incorporation of skylights bring at least 300 lux from the sun to more than 80% of communal space on the 16th floor, a figure well above LEED and WELL standards.
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50 AWARDS
Information & photos: QBA
52 AWARDS
Hong Kong Children’s Hospital The establishment of HKCH was first conceived in 2007 by the Hong Kong Government. The objective is to enhance the quality of tertiary clinical paediatrics, concentration of leading medical professionals and paediatrics patients with serious and life-threatening illness in a purpose-built medical centre of excellence where experts across different subspecialties can work and collaborate closely. Abutting the future waterfront promenade fronting the Kai Tak Approach Channel with a site area of about 22,000m2 at the South Apron of Kai Tak Development, HKCH comprises two 11- storey towers with 468 beds for in-patient and day-patient services, a clinical trial centre, an oncology centre, an integrated rehabilitation centre, operating theatres, specialist out-patient clinic, ambulatory care centre, radiological diagnostic facilities, clinical laboratories and other ancillary supporting facilities. To promote continued advancement and clinical excellence, a comprehensive research and training centre are also integrated into the facility. The proposed net operational floor area (NOFA) and construction floor area (CFA) of HKCH is about 45,800m2 and 168,000m2 respectively.
Quality Excellence Award
Grand Award
Client/Developer: Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, Hospital Authority Project Manager: Architectural Services Department, HKSAR Government Project Architect: Simon Kwan & Associates Limited Building Services Engineer: J. Roger Preston Limited
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Client/Developer, Project Manager: New World Development Company Limited Design Architect & Façade Designer: KPF Executive Architect & Authorized Person: Ronald Lu and Partners Building Services Engineer: WSP (Asia) Limited
Grand Award
Hong Kong Children's Hospital
Tai Kwun West Kowloon Government Office
JRP is honoured to be part of the project teams of winning projects in Quality Building Award 2020. Morpheus Hotel, Macau
One Taikoo Place
J. Roger Preston is a prominent mechanical and electrical consulting engineering practice with offices across Asia in Hong Kong, Beijing, Shenzhen, Shanghai, Macau, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Ho Chi Minh City. JRP has been involved in the development of some of Hong Kong's most iconic landmarks and many notable engineering works in the region.
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Grand Award
Client/Developer: Henderson Development Agency Limited and Peterson Group Project Manager: Henderson Development Agency Limited Project Architect: CYS Associates (HK) Limited Building Services Engineer: Arcadis Design & Engineering Limited
Grand Award
On Tai Estate Public Rental Housing Development A transformation from barren quarry to ‘Green Oasis’ turned part of the disused Anderson Road Quarry, once seen as an urban eyesore, to a green oasis housing more than 7,000 families. While celebrating the history of the quarry, HKHA instilled new characteristics for a new sustainable community. HKHA engaged the stakeholders in planning, design, construction and management of the estate to remember the site’s history while building a community that can grow for the future. It is HKHA’s mission to achieve sustainable development in public housing, which balances the environment with social and economic needs to attain healthy living, sustainable construction and enhancement of the total urban environment.
Client/Developer, Project Manager, Project Architect: Hong Kong Housing Authority
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Tai Kwun ﹣ The Centre for Heritage and Arts Tai Kwun is the Centre for Heritage and Arts, a place of inspiration, stimulation and enjoyment for all Hong Kong people. Tai Kwun aspires to offer the best heritage and arts experiences and to cultivate knowledge and appreciation of contemporary art, performing arts and history in the community. Situated in the restored former Central Police Station (CPS) compound, it is one of the most significant revitalisation projects in Hong Kong, comprising three declared monuments - the former CPS, Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison. The revitalisation project was led by The Hong Kong Jockey Club (The Client/Developer, Project Manager: The Hong Kong Jockey Club Executive Architect: Rocco Design Architects Associates Limited HKJC) in partnership with the HKSAR Government. Building Services Engineer: J. Roger Preston Limited Conservation Architect: Purcell
Grand Award
The Mills Situated in the industrial area in Tsuen Wan - once a manufacturing hub for Hong Kong’s textile industry, The Mills was the flagship revitalisation project of Nan Fung Group. It is a celebration of shared industrial legacy with Hong Kong and a step towards future applied creativity and innovation. The project involved revitalising the Mills 4, 5 and 6 to become a new ecosystem for the fashion and textile industry. It also aims to preserve local history and textile-rooted identity of Tsuen Wan, bridging the technology gap between the old and new generations.
Client/Developer: Nan Fung Textiles Second Mill Limited Project Manager: Nan Fung Development Limited Project Architect: Thomas Chow Architects Limited Building Services Engineer: Aurecon Hong Kong Limited
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Morpheus Hotel The new flagship hotel of City of Dreams Complex, developed and owned by Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited, is located at the heart of the Cotai Strip in Macau, establishing itself as a premier leisure and entertainment complex integrated with hotel accommodations, diverse entertainment features, international dining, and high-end retail facilities. Architecturally it is informed by the fluid forms within China’s rich traditions of jade carving, the Morpheus’ design combining dramatic public spaces and generous guest rooms with innovative engineering and formal cohesion. Conceived as a vertical extrusion of its rectangular footprint, a series of voids is carved through its centre to create an urban window connecting the hotel’s interior communal spaces with the city and generating the sculptural forms that define the hotel’s public spaces.
Client/Developer, Project Manager: Melco Resorts & Entertainment Executive Architect: Leigh & Orange Limited Design Architect: Zaha Hadid Architects Building Services Engineer: J. Roger Preston Limited
Changsha IFS Changsha IFS is set to become a world-class multi-use complex and the largest landmark in Changsha downtown. The development includes a mega shopping mall, twin premium super high-rise buildings with Grade-A office, serviced apartments and 2 five-star hotels. Tower T1 has a height of 452m, which is 14th tallest in the World, the 9th tallest in China and tallest building in Changsha, while Tower T2 with a height of 315m, is the 2nd tallest in Changsha. An international team of more than twenty consultants from Hong Kong, mainland China and overseas design firms, collaborated and contributed their talent and expertise to achieve the vision of this complex development.
Client/Developer, Project Manager: Wharf Changsha Development Limited
Project Architect: Wong & Tung International Limited
MLP & Podium Designer: BENOY
58 PRODUCT & TECH
DOW expands offering
with range of long-lasting and sustainable interior sealants As a recognised global leader in silicone sealant technology and innovation, DOW is this year celebrating the 50th anniversary of its structural glazing sealant being brought to curtainwall market. The product has stood the test of time and within the façade industry remains a leading performer in the proven structural glazing and weatherproofing solutions of even more than 70% of the world’s tallest buildings.
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his year, against the backdrop of Covid-19 when people are spending more time at home, DOW is pushing the building envelope further with the launch of a new range of interior products designed to improve indoor air quality, and in turn, the health and wellbeing of its target building occupants. The message is clear: the DOWSIL™ brand is not only high in aesthetics and performance, it is also sustainable and safe, reducing the harmful effects of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and improving indoor air quality. Further, the UV resistant properties of the DOWSIL™ product range means that the silicone sealants typically last three times longer than their organic equivalents. Available in variety of common standard colors for interior glazing needs with options for Custom Color to specific project application, the full range also boasts ultra low VOC and low odour. DOW is also the first in the industry to work alongside the HKGBC (Hong Kong Green Building Council) and the Construction Industry Council (CIC) to establish an industry standard for interior silicone sealants through sustainable and eco-friendly product labeling. Amongst the range is the DOWSIL™ Green Multiple Purpose Sealant, suitable for interior decoration, partitions and general assembly. Also included is the DOWSIL 798 Cold and Clean Room Sealant, available in white, which boasts bacteriostatic performance tested to ISO and NSF standards, making it suitable for use in food processing areas as well as hospital and clinical settings. Compliance with these standards also significantly reduces the risk of bacteria growth, including E Coli, MRSA
Text: Elizabeth Dooley
Photos: Stock Images
ROF Media
and salmonella enteritis. Tests have also shown excellent adhesion performance under chlorine water in excess of 52 days which distinguish its higher-performance standard. Also in the range is the DOWSIL™ F4 High Performance Kitchen and Bathroom Mould Resistant Sealant, a high performance mould resistant sealant designed for kitchens and bathrooms. Having been subject to stringent testing, including 14 days of water immersion, 12 types of fungi testing and evaluation of up to 140 days, it conforms to industry standards including ASTM G21 and GB/T 1741-2007 that have lead for more than 5 times in terms of challenging conditions than standard test method. Meanwhile, the DOWSIL™ 817 Mirror Adhesive High Strength Neutral Sealant, available in white, contains a non-corrosive and odourless high modulus neutral silicone, promises outstanding resistance to heat and humidity and suitability for internal fixation of mirrors, coated glass and metals. It is also suitable for exterior use on materials such as solar mirrors and plates. Completing the new range is the DOWSIL™ 650 Protective Peelable Coating, a liquid coating designed to provide a temporary protective skin for high performance façade glazing, window systems and panels during storage, transportation and throughout onsite installation and interior decoration. Once dry, it offers excellent protection against damage, dust, stains, grease and even weld slag. Designed to meet the increasing demand for glass protection for residential buildings with curtainwall facades as well as luxury interior walling and fittings materials, it can be easily peeled off when protection is no longer required, leaving behind zero damage or residue. For business development leader, Sammy Hui, who has been with the company since 1995, the launch of Dow’s interior product comes at an important time. “Hong Kong’s high humidity and high temperatures make it easy for mould to grow. Property price and Rents are continuing to rise and apartments are getting smaller and smaller, so the need for airflow and indoor air quality has never been so important. Also, many bathrooms are concealed which is why improving the air quality is crucial for both health and aesthetics. We are confident that our interior range with green building labeling will allow architects and interior designers alike to lift their project specifications to a higher level. At the same time, it will allow building owners to achieve higher safety standards for their tenants.”
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The seal you trust
60 PRODUCT & TECH
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