PRC Magazine #102 (Architecture | Building | Construction)

2020 Issue 102

Pacific Rim Construction

THE OPUS DUBAI TWIN TOWERS ENCOMPASS EXTRAORDINARY FREE-FORM VOID

Hong Kong / PRC $60

Inside: The opening of TOWNPLACE SOHO launches flex community living Wan Chai Connect offers international gateway city superb new vision CR Construction Co. takes construction management to new heights Rising stars of master planning and urban revitalisation, JATO turns 7 Adaptive Re-use offers community opportunities for new inhabitation

ISSN 1684-1956 977168495009

102

Flooring and wooden interiors hand-crafted 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 bywords for a company that always pursues perfection.

Made in Germany. Available in Hong Kong

Exclusive Sales Partner of Schotten & Hansen | Showroom: 220 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong Phone: +852 2833 6069 | Email: info@schotten-hansen.com.hk

www.schotten-hansen.com

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The Opus Dubai Photography by Laurian Ghinitoiu

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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) 3150 8988 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

NAN FUNG GROUP ANNOUNCES AIRSIDE TO ANCHOR OLD HONG KONG AIRPORT SITE

SOM, FENDER KATSALIDIS CLAIM $1.8B WIN TO CREATE NEW SYDNEY PUBLIC SPACE

The Nan Fung Group has announced it will commence work on Airside, a 47-storey multiple-use development that will anchor the Grade A office clusters in the Kai Tak district – the site of Hong Kong’s former airport. The 176,500-m2 mixeduse commercial development will reach 200m high, and the total investment in the project will top HK$32 billion (US$4.13 billion) by the time the ribbon is cut at the end of 2022. The flagship project, which set a record land bid of HK$24.6 billion in 2017, includes a Grade A office tower of more than 30 stories, a multi-storey retail complex and interconnected underground shopping street.

Airside will sit at the heart of Hong Kong’s second CBD, will be the tallest building in the area and will represent a significant anchor commercial development among the roughly 557,500m2 of net fixed asset Grade A office clusters in the district. The development will involve cascading greenery, an openair rooftop, terraces and surrounding ground s that will constitute one-third of the site. www.nanfung.com

Skidmore, Owings and Merrill and architects Fender Katsalidis have won an international design competition for a landmark project at Sydney’s Central Station with a design that delivers two towers and a civic square.

The development seeks to rejuvenate Sydney’s busiest transport interchange with a new public realm and to bring two tech-focused office towers with the world’s first AI-driven facade system, powered by 100% renewable energy. The A$2.5-billion (US$1.8-billion) project will be defined by its contribution to the city, new civic plaza, and sculptural office towers, says Fender Katsalidis design director Mark Curzon. “Central Place Sydney’s focal point is a major new civic space wrapped with activated retail edges, enriched by two commercial towers and a landmark central building. It will redefine the precinct, completing Sydney’s vision for a ‘third square’,” says Curzon. The design features two 37and-39 storey commercial towers, woven together by a low-rise building anchoring the development and enlivening the precinct at street level. https://fkaustralia.com / www.som.com

10 DESIGN DELIVERS SPACE FOR BUSINESS INCUBATOR AT JINWAN AVIATION CITY

ATELIER BRÜCKNER’S JOB FOR GERMAN CHURCH FORMS NEW ENTRY STATEMENT FOR TOWN

The 54,699m2 Industrial Service Centre is a campus community within a Zhuhai, mainland China. It is the first building delivered by 10 Design for the development. The centre is an attractive campus that is unique, pragmatic, commercially viable and well-integrated on the site. Inspired by the concept of a flowing stream, a central green landscaped area provides convenient access to all occupiers and connects all buildings. Each of the three buildings has been designed as paired blocks with a central atrium. These central atriums provide shared entrances for the office buildings and contain shared meeting rooms and collaboration space to further increase visibility and interaction.

Flexibility is at the forefront of the design process. This is accomplished by the creation of adaptable planning modules that allow for multiple tenant configurations, sizes and sectors. “Creating opportunities for interaction, collaboration and visibility is an important objective of our masterplan,” said 10 Design’s Nick Cordingley. www.10design.co

The community centre attached to the Catholic Church in Troisdorf is a prominent urban-planning highlight at the entrance the German town. Known as the Hippolytushaus, it is adjacent to the historic St. Hippolytus church and the Hippolytusgarten kindergarten. The kindergarten and community centre are newly designed by Stuttgart architects Atelier Brückner.The parish community centre is designed as a city gate with three fronts.The gates constitute an inviting, space-enclosing gesture, which is concentrated in the centre of the two-storey flat-roofed building. On the ground, an isosceles triangle presents itself. The 1,200m2 parish community centre is a publicly accessible centre of attraction, suitable for a wide variety of uses. On the top floor, there are 10 workstations of the Troisdorf parish community as well as quiet offices for meetings and a light-filled assembly room. Engaging in a dialogue with the city, the community centre acts as a city gate and becomes an urban meeting point for the town. www.atelier-brueckner.com/en

AEDAS’ MODERN MIXED-USE TOWERS WITH BAMBOO HERITAGE CELEBRATE SHANGHAI SCE Sky Horizon is a mix-used development located in the Zhenru area of Shanghai’s Putuo District that draws on the city’s traditional and contemporary design. Aedas was responsible for masterplanning and façade design of the development that integrates space for offices, SOHO and We collaborate with European residential space. Realised as two d e s i g n e r s t o d e v e l o p t h e m o s t connected towers, the structure exclusive patter ns, woodgrains, takes the form of staggered and stones and colours, engineering stacked glass volumes of various designs that perfectly frame exclusive sizes, facilitating connection and communication within the towers. interiors worldwide.

Dark and light hues of greytinted glass allude to an outline of stacked stones, while white LED light belts emphasise the dynamic composition of the building. The ground floor connects the two towers with a designated communal dropoff area covered with a grand awning. Erected in a minimal straight form, the residential towers are colour blocked in black and white, reflecting an upright image of bamboo.

Offering refined modern design, the 2018 development cultivates the heart of the metropolitan city while capturing the timeless Shanghai appeal. www.aedas.com

ZHA TO MAKE ‘GREENEST’ BUILDING IN SHANGHAI FOR CONSERVATION GROUP

PoliLam HPL proudly introduces durable ACE Surfaces™ which adapt to everyday touch, use and wear without the worry of handprints or residue. ACE Surfaces™ are anti-bacterial, scratch and abrasion resistant.

FURNITURE-MAKER STEELCASE SETS GOAL TO BE CARBON NEGATIVE IN A DECADE Office-furnishings maker Steelcase has set a goal to become carbon negative by 2030 by markedly reducing emissions across its own operations with targets in line with climate science. Over the next decade, the company will focus on reducing emissions at a rate needed to prevent the worst impacts of climate change. By becoming carbon negative, also referred to as climate positive, Steelcase would remove more carbon than it emits, through a combination of absolute reductions and investing in renewable energy.

Additional actions are expected to include financing carbon offset initiatives and support for external emission reductions with social benefits. “Steelcase is proud to lead our industry in addressing this critical global issue,” said Steelcase president and Chief Executive Jim Keane. “We are pleased to be taking immediate steps in the right direction.” Steelcase is a publicly traded company with a 2020 revenue of US$3.7 billion. Earlier this year, the company reported a greater than 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to a decade earlier. www.steelcase.com

Zaha Hadid Architects has been selected to build the new Shanghai headquarters of the China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group or CECEP. CECEP is mainland China’s leading company initiating and funding projects with a focus on renewable energy technologies, environmental conservation initiatives, energy conservation and emissions reductions in the construction industry. The new CECEP headquarters in Shanghai has been designed to be the “greenest” building in the city with sustainability embedded into every aspect of its design and construction to achieve more than 90 credits in China’s Three Star Green Building Rating system – the highest score for any building in Shanghai.

The design includes a mixed-use urban campus of three office towers, shopping, dining and leisure facilities linked together by a park that connects directly with the city. The 218,000m2 headquarters features rainwater harvesting to irrigate expansive green spaces, use of prefabricated components will reduce the project’s embodied carbon, and photovoltaics will reduce energy consumption from the grid by 25%. www.zaha-hadid.com

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC, LINK, NAN FUNG GET CLEVER AT THE QUAYSIDE IN KOWLOON

LISTEN UP:THE KEF EGG DUO CAN PUMP OUT JAMS FOR TODAY’S LIFESTYLE The new Egg Duo digital music system from Kef creates immersive audio experiences for television, listening to music or gaming. The new edition of the lightweight digital sound system is said to have dramatically improved upon the original, while retaining the same ethos and spirit that made the system so versatile. The design is bold and makes a sound statement. The British audio company has removed the grille to allow the Uni-Q driver to perform to its maximum capability and provide listeners with the opportunity to view class-leading industrial design. The new, cleaner baffle design is a key part of the new visual aesthetic, matched by five bold colours. The Egg Duo is versatile, with connectivity options allowing it to operate as a listener requires.

A comprehensive range of connection High-end interiors options are available including Bluetooth 4.0, 3.5mm Aux in, Mini USB Type B and a combo jack. the unique, Since 1961, Kefwith has driven innovation in sound with examples including its iconic appeal egg, Muon fashionable of and Blade speakers. https://hk.kef.com/ European living

Unit 101, 1/F, iHome Centre, 369 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, H.K. T: (852) 2338 8800

Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure for Building has set The Quayside on course to create new standards for energy efficiency. The Internet of Things-enabled architecture has been used in the Link Reit-Nan Fung Group twin office towers in East Kowloon, Hong Kong’s emerging second CBD. EcoStruxure Building Operation integrates multiple systems within the building, including the power distribution, lighting and HVAC. The system was used to visualise energy consumption for lifetime energy efficiency improvement and to optimise the indoor environment for the best-possible occupant experiences. “We expect The Quayside to set a new benchmark in energy performance. We are also confident in achieving notable enhancements in energy efficiency,” said Samuel Wong, the deputy general manager of the Nan Fung Group. Schneider Electric says buildings account for 90% of Hong Kong’s total electricity consumption, compared to a global average of 40%. With the high level of automation achieved with its systems, Schneider says building managers are easily able to deliver actionable insights to reduce energy consumption, maximise comfort and air quality. www.se.com/hk

www.polilam.com

10 PRESS

SWIRE PROPERTIES TAKES RICS AWARD FOR HKRI TAIKOO HUI SHANGHAI

LWK AND PARTNERS TRIALS MODULAR BUILD FOR COVID-19 QUARANTINE FACILITIES

LWK + PARTNERS Director, Paul Ng

Swire Properties has been recognised at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Awards China 2020 with accolades that include the Commercial Project of the Year award. From a field of 18 finalists HKRI Taikoo Hui, Shanghai won Commercial Project of the Year. Also, the Sichuan Community Centre received an Excellence Award for Sustainability Achievement of the Year.

Among the judge’s comments were notes on HKRI Taikoo Hui’s transformative power, describing it as a perfect balance between cultural preservation, community engagement, environmental conservation and asset value, while driving development. “Since its opening in 2017, HKRI Taikoo Hui has helped establish Jing’an District as one of the leading commercial districts in Chinese mainland, with innovative, one of a kind concept stores and specially curated, unique event spaces for the community,” said Swire Properties chief executive, Chinese mainland, Tim Blackburn. Meanwhile, Swire Properties has signed a five-year, HK$1-billion Green Loan Facility with OCBC Bank, which is part of the developer’s ongoing efforts to implement green initiatives at its properties around the world. www.swireproperties.com

SPARK’S BIOGAS PLANT IS A WINNING RETORT TO CHINA’S PIG POLLUTION PUZZLE

A whimsical piece of enviro-architecture celebrating the industrial everyday has won Singapore studio Spark the top position in China’s Design Power 100 list of the best work for 2019. Spark’s 3 Little Pigs biogas plant is a design to support the Mainland Chinese government’s efforts to tackle the problem of water pollution in fresh water supplies caused by the waste from farming.

The aboveground structures are transportable gas holders positioned above a fibreglass dome which houses decomposing manure that gives off gas for cooking and heating. As much as the design for 3 Little Pigs was a response to pollution connected to intensive farming, it is also a celebration of sorts for the pig, which is highly regarded and an important agricultural product.China’s Design Power 100 assembles the best designs produced in China last year under the theme Hello Future. The list reflects bright ideas across the topics of sustainability, health, lifestyle and technology. www.sparkarchitects.com

One of Hong Kong’s responses to the Covid-19 pandemic has been the temporary quarantine facilities in Sai Kung Outdoor Recreation Centre. The build was a test case for Modular Integrated Construction, setting a Hong Kong record of 77 days to design and build three blocks of threestorey facilities. LWK and Partners, Paul Y. Construction and Paul Y. – iMax trialled a modular technique that is relatively new to Hong Kong, but that has been used in mainland China, Singapore, Britain and the US. “Modular Integrated Construction is based on the concept ‘factory assembly followed by on-site installation’. Freestanding integrated modules are fabricated, finished and inspected in the factory before being transported to the site for installation,” said LWK and Partners director Paul Ng. Each of the 3 buildings consists of 33 temporary units, with their own toilets and connected through steel staircases and open-air corridors.

Ng said the build resulted in less construction waste, improves cost-effectiveness and its modular units may be reused. www.lwkp.com

TWINKLE,TWINKLE MEGASTAR – RONALD LU LIGHTS UP TENCENT EAST CHINA BUILDING Hong Kong-based practice Ronald Lu & Partners has released its design for Tencent’s 77,000m2 East China Headquarters in Shanghai.

The innovative design is inspired by the idea of “a myriad of twinkling household lights” which is a reflection of Tencent’s vision, identity and culture.The façade has irregular window grids, resembling pixels, with the thousands of distinctive windows reflecting sunlight. The 29-storey, 150-m-high office building and a four-storey podium is likely to become a landmark in the Xuhui District when it is scheduled for completion by the second half of next year. A recent topping-out ceremony was held to celebrate the completion of the main structure. “We are very happy to see the building is getting closer to completion after our collective effort of over five years. In addition to the innovative architectural appearance, this project closely reflects our principle in designing better life at every opportunity,” says Bryant Lu,Vice-chairman of Ronald Lu & Partners.The building integrates LEED Gold principles, elements from level 2 of the Chinese Assessment Standard for Green Building, and WELL Building Standards. www.rlphk.com

Italian lava stone from Mount Etna in Sicily is an exceptionally resistant material requiring minimal maintenance. Our lava stone is fired at such high temperature that the glazing will never fade. Our unique glazing process creates an unparalleled expression of colour that is impossible to imitate.

The distinct colours and patterns from Made A Mano are also available on highly durable Terracotta tiles that have a solid surface that’s effortless to maintain.

High-end interiors with the unique, fashionable appeal of European living Unit 101, 1/F, iHome Centre, 369 Lockhart Road, Wan Chai, H.K. T: (852) 2338 8800

www.madeamano.com

12 PRESS

UNSTUDIO DESIGNS WINNING PLAN FOR THE KOREAN NATIONAL FOOTBALL CENTRE Image: ©️Brick Visual

Dutch architectural firm UNStudio has teamed up with Amsterdam’s Johan Cruijff Arena in a winning design for the Korean National Football Centre in Seoul. The masterplan was selected as the winning design from a closed competition that took place in March. The National Football Centre will not only become home to the Korean national team and their trainers, but also a laboratory for future generations. The plan includes a high-end hotel with inside and outside lounge areas, spa, sauna and wellness centre will ensure that the NFC also offers exclusive facilities for players. The focal point of the masterplan will be the central public plaza, located at the heart of the complex. Three primary pieces of architecture - the museum, the indoor stadium and the outdoor stadium will frame a public pedestrian area that houses restaurants, shops and a variety of (semi) public sports facilities. www.unstudio.com

LG DEBUTS ITS NEW AI-DRIVEN VIVACE ‘CLOTHING BUTLER’ WASHING MACHINE

ATKINS CLAIMS AWARD FOR 500M, 15-CELL COFFERDAM INNOVATION IN HONG KONG

LG Electronics is launching the latest artificial intelligence, slim washing machine. The Vivace Series, which uses revolutionary AI clothing identification technology to match the best washing mode for clothing care, has an upgraded function to sterilise bacteria and dust mites.The Vivace Series washing machines are specially equipped with new AI technology with more than 20,000 sets of intelligent data, which can automatically identify the clothing fabric and suggest the best washing mode, eliminating the need for setting the function. Clothing identification technology can also reduce clothing damage by 18% compared to conventional washing machines. The Vivace series monitors the subtle differences of clothing materials, and adjusts the washing mode for each laundry, realizing special care for each piece of laundry item like the proverbial butler. LG Electronics Inc is a global innovator in technology and manufacturing with operations in more than 100 locations and a global workforce of more than 70,000 people. www.lg.com

The 2020 Hong Kong Institution of Engineers Innovation Award for application of an engineering theory has been won by Atkins for its work constructing a 500-m long, 43-m deep, 15-cell cofferdam. The design was deployed on the Tuen Mun-Check Lap Kok Link (TMCLKL) project in Hong Kong, and is considered the world’s longest and largest caterpillar-shaped cofferdam.

The 5-km-long, TM-CLKL subsea tunnel has been built using the cutand-cover method, and connects the Northwest New Territories with the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port, located northeast of the Hong Kong international Airport. Atkins estimates their cofferdam design could save from HK$500 million to HK$1 billion, and between 6 and 10 months in construction time. The design eliminates about 21,000t of steel and 80,000m3 of ground treatment from construction. “This innovative solution from our technically brilliant tunnels team showcases the overall strength of Atkins’ multi-disciplinary design capabilities in Hong Kong. We have been at the forefront of innovation for many years, focussing strongly on achieving the best outcomes for our clients and their projects,” says George Ramsbottom, Atkins’ managing director for Hong Kong and Macao.

Meanwhile, Atkins has won a design consultancy services contract to work on upgrading infrastructure on three MTR lines in Hong Kong over the next 7 years. Atkins was appointed by the China Railway Electrification Engineering Group (CREG), a subsidiary of China Railway Engineering Company (CREC). www.atkinsglobal.com

A SECOND CONTRACT IN CENTRAL KOWLOON PROJECT SECURED BY GAMMON CONSTRUCTION Gammon Construction has been awarded a HK$5.67Kai Tak ventilation building billion contract by the Hong Kong Highways Department to construct buildings, electrical and mechanical works for the Central Kowloon Route (Contract Ho Man Tin ventilation building No. HY/2019/13).The works Yau Ma Tei ventilation building form an essential element of the overall Central Kowloon Route (CKR), a 4.7km-long, dual, three-lane, underground trunk road that will enhance connectivity between the east and west Kowloon districts.This is the second contract Gammon has won on this project. Gammon is also constructing the Kai Tak West Section of the project, including underwater and cut-and-cover tunnels. “Our delivery methodology incorporates an integrated digital project delivery approach making use of smart and digital construction techniques including the adoption of extensive Design for Manufacture and Assembly and off-site pre-fabrication to improve efficiency, overall safety and quality on the project,” said Gammon Chief Executive Thomas Ho. The scope of work for the newer contract includes construction of tunnel ventilation and administration buildings, electrical and mechanical works including building services, tunnel ventilation and air purification. www.gammonconstruction.com

GO TOUCHLESS: HYGIENIC, SAFE ACCESS WITH AUB DOOR ACCESS SOLUTIONS “Barrier Free” Automatic Sliding and Swing door solutions used for public toilets, commercial buildings, shopping malls, ensure a hygienic and trouble-free access to any public areas and facilities. AUB has developed a complete solution including automatic door operators, user-friendly indicator panels including braille, audio and visual human interface as well as the logic control to ensure a safe passage for public use. Customisation is essential to blend in with the existing facilities and the design intent. Premium products and preventive maintenance & service ensure a seamless and trouble-free operation. enquiry@aub.com.hk

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AEDAS’ MODERN MIXED-USE TOWERS WITH BAMBOO HERITAGE CELEBRATE SHANGHAI SCE Sky Horizon is a mix-used development located in the Zhenru area of Shanghai’s Putuo District that draws on the city’s traditional and contemporary design. Aedas was responsible for masterplanning and façade design of the development that integrates space for offices, SOHO and residential space. Realised as two connected towers, the structure takes the form of staggered and stacked glass volumes of various sizes, facilitating connection and communication within the towers.

Dark and light hues of greytinted glass allude to an outline of stacked stones, while white LED light belts emphasise the dynamic composition of the building. The ground floor connects the two towers with a designated communal dropoff area covered with a grand awning. Erected in a minimal straight form, the residential towers are colour blocked in black and white, reflecting an upright image of bamboo.

Offering refined modern design, the 2018 development cultivates the heart of the metropolitan city while capturing the timeless Shanghai appeal. www.aedas.com

FURNITURE-MAKER STEELCASE SETS GOAL TO BE CARBON NEGATIVE IN A DECADE Office-furnishings maker Steelcase has set a goal to become carbon negative by 2030 by markedly reducing emissions across its own operations with targets in line with climate science. Over the next decade, the company will focus on reducing emissions at a rate needed to prevent the worst impacts of climate change. By becoming carbon negative, also referred to as climate positive, Steelcase would remove more carbon than it emits, through a combination of absolute reductions and investing in renewable energy.

Additional actions are expected to include financing carbon offset initiatives and support for external emission reductions with social benefits. “Steelcase is proud to lead our industry in addressing this critical global issue,” said Steelcase president and Chief Executive Jim Keane. “We are pleased to be taking immediate steps in the right direction.” Steelcase is a publicly traded company with a 2020 revenue of US$3.7 billion. Earlier this year, the company reported a greater than 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to a decade earlier. www.steelcase.com

ZHA TO MAKE ‘GREENEST’ BUILDING IN SHANGHAI FOR CONSERVATION GROUP

Zaha Hadid Architects has been selected to build the new Shanghai headquarters of the China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group or CECEP. CECEP is mainland China’s leading company initiating and funding projects with a focus on renewable energy technologies, environmental conservation initiatives, energy conservation and emissions reductions in the construction industry. The new CECEP headquarters in Shanghai has been designed to be the “greenest” building in the city with sustainability embedded into every aspect of its design and construction to achieve more than 90 credits in China’s Three Star Green Building Rating system – the highest score for any building in Shanghai.

The design includes a mixed-use urban campus of three office towers, shopping, dining and leisure facilities linked together by a park that connects directly with the city. The 218,000m2 headquarters features rainwater harvesting to irrigate expansive green spaces, use of prefabricated components will reduce the project’s embodied carbon, and photovoltaics will reduce energy consumption from the grid by 25%. www.zaha-hadid.com

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC, LINK, NAN FUNG GET CLEVER AT THE QUAYSIDE IN KOWLOON

LISTEN UP:THE KEF EGG DUO CAN PUMP OUT JAMS FOR TODAY’S LIFESTYLE The new Egg Duo digital music system from Kef creates immersive audio experiences for television, listening to music or gaming. The new edition of the lightweight digital sound system is said to have dramatically improved upon the original, while retaining the same ethos and spirit that made the system so versatile. The design is bold and makes a sound statement. The British audio company has removed the grille to allow the Uni-Q driver to perform to its maximum capability and provide listeners with the opportunity to view class-leading industrial design. The new, cleaner baffle design is a key part of the new visual aesthetic, matched by five bold colours. The Egg Duo is versatile, with connectivity options allowing it to operate as a listener requires.

A comprehensive range of connection options are available including Bluetooth 4.0, 3.5mm Aux in, Mini USB Type B and a combo jack.

Since 1961, Kef has driven innovation in sound with examples including its iconic egg, Muon and Blade speakers. https://hk.kef.com/

Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure for Building has set The Quayside on course to create new standards for energy efficiency. The Internet of Things-enabled architecture has been used in the Link Reit-Nan Fung Group twin office towers in East Kowloon, Hong Kong’s emerging second CBD. EcoStruxure Building Operation integrates multiple systems within the building, including the power distribution, lighting and HVAC. The system was used to visualise energy consumption for lifetime energy efficiency improvement and to optimise the indoor environment for the best-possible occupant experiences. “We expect The Quayside to set a new benchmark in energy performance. We are also confident in achieving notable enhancements in energy efficiency,” said Samuel Wong, the deputy general manager of the Nan Fung Group. Schneider Electric says buildings account for 90% of Hong Kong’s total electricity consumption, compared to a global average of 40%. With the high level of automation achieved with its systems, Schneider says building managers are easily able to deliver actionable insights to reduce energy consumption, maximise comfort and air quality. www.se.com/hk

14 FEATURE

Flex Community Living

by TOWNPLACE Those seeking a prestigious address with the lifestyle to match need look no further than TOWNPLACE, a new residential leasing brand launched by Sun Hung Kai Properties (SHKP). 421 apartments are offered at two prime locations – SOHO and KENNEDY TOWN, on Hong Kong Island, that promises lease flexibility and different furnishing choices. Besides the leasing options of one month up to two years, residents can also choose from serviced apartment, furnished apartment and unfurnished apartment.

They can even customise their living space from a menu of interior styles.

T

OWNPLACE SOHO, the flagship developer’s latest leasing property, is situated at 18 Caine Road in Central, with accommodations ranging from studios to four-bedroom units spanning 26.5 to 101.5 square metres (saleable area 286 to 1,092 square feet), This prime location in CBD suits perfectly for TOWNPLACE residents - the young professionals who enjoy the vibrant metropolitan lifestyle. The residence is just three minutes away from the hip restaurants, art spaces, trendy shops and the exciting nightlife of the world-famous Lan Kwai Fong district. Emphasising spaciousness, the wide-ranging amenities include the Living Room, a dynamic and flexible work and social space, swimming pool, a terrace sundeck and more.

TOWNPLACE KENNEDY TOWN stands on a vibrant enclave at 97 Belcher’s Street, the heart of Hong Kong Island’s Western District. Blending western lifestyle with local characteristics, with the MTR station a mere threeminute stroll away. Appointed with modern furnishings, the apartments range from one to three-bedroom layouts designed for comfort and style. This property boasts diverse amenities, tastefully imagined for leisure and work and consisted of five floors, including the Duo Social Space with rooftop gym featuring a panoramic sea view, a garden boulevard and semi-open space for tailored gatherings.

Text: Norman Yam

Photos: TOWNPLACE

Derek Leung

OWN the Flexi Few residences in Hong Kong offer the flexi-leasing options available at TOWNPLACE. At TOWNPLACE SOHO and TOWNPLACE KENNEDY TOWN, the minimum leasing term is just one month, making it an attractive short-stay option for expatriates and business travellers. Longer-term options come in the form of yearly leases.

Three types of apartment options are available. While Serviced Apartments provide comprehensive hospitality services and furnishings, Furnished Apartments and Unfurnished Apartments are also on offer. For the Unfurnished Apartments, tenants can move in with their own furniture to add a personal touch to their living space.

TOWNPLACE SOHO has 293 residential apartments available, ranging from studios to 4-bedroom units with furniture options, such as award-winning Stellar Works and Japanese minimalistic Francfranc providing stylish and quality options for tenants. Flexibility extends to TOWNPLACE KENNEDY TOWN with apartment layout options from 1-bedroom to 3-bedroom units and two furnishing options. Including a Japanese minimalist by Francfranc and sustainable brand TREE, to provide stylish and quality options to residents.

Prominent living in style Every TOWNPLACE apartment features a balcony and full-height windows that bathe the living area with natural light and brings the local scenery into the interiors. These apartments are specifically designed with millennials in mind. There are units at both properties that have kitchens fully equipped with high quality appliances, such as a full height refrigerator, washer and dryer, induction cooker and more to suit TOWNERs’ (as residents are known) modern and healthy lifestyle. Bathrooms welcome guests with a rain shower system with personalised settings to create a pampered shower experience.

The Serviced Apartments at TOWNPLACE SOHO are also fully equipped with kitchenette, wine cooler, hotel-class mattresses with pillow-top, LED TV and Marshall Bluetooth speakers to bring convenience and hassle-free living to the TOWNERs. They can enjoy flexibility and a stylish lifestyle with spacesaving furniture, from retractable kitchen table, round corner wardrobes, retractable storage in the bathroom, to a transformable desk bed by the famous Italian furniture brand – Clei in some apartments.

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16 FEATURE

Discover the new variant concept Duo Social Space A TOWNPLACE apartment is much more than a place to stay, it promises a whole new lifestyle. Curated for millennial professionals, the residences reflect their preference for flexibility with personalised options.

The diversity of work and leisure spaces across TOWNPLACE SOHO and TOWNPLACE KENNEDY TOWN best fit the young professionals’ dynamic lifestyle. Nearly 30,000 square feet of Duo Social Space provides TOWNERs the double enjoyment and living experience, because they can use the facilities and services across both locations. The flexible and partitioning setting at TOWNPLACE SOHO Living Room suit different occasions and networking purposes. Working desks, semi-private booth seats and phone booths allow more privacy for your meetings. Relaxation extends to the outdoor swimming pool, wellness and BBQ area.

TOWNERs can relax at the sundeck on rooftop garden, to enjoy the panoramic city view and even enjoy your yoga exercise on the designated green lawn. With five incredible floors of tailored zones at TOWNPLACE KENNEDY TOWN catering to your needs, play and work has never been this awesome! Unwind and enjoy breath taking surroundings of natural greenspaces and a panoramic sky gym are the greatest highlights.

Duo Social Space is a new concept in the residential market, allowing TOWNERs to use a wealth of communal amenities at either property, along with hospitality services. The synergies of Duo Social Space, across two properties, unify as a single community but double the enjoyment. The space in TOWNPLACE SOHO is filled with art pieces, including the 3 murals designed by famous artist Kristopher Ho, that depict iconic animals from the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens in Central. As well

as different paintings by ParentsParents, a Hong Kong street art collective, to bring out the charm of the Soho neighbourhood such as Duddell Street Steps and gas lamps.

The architectural and interior design emphasises connectivity between people, the built environment and nature. Nature lovers will cherish the urban oasis created at TOWNHOUSE SOHO. From the ground floor front-yard garden, the vertical green wall at the concierge, greenery on the first floor, to the rooftop garden and wellness terrace, the space incorporates abundant natural features along with movable and stylish furniture to create a perfect space for TOWNERs to enjoy peaceful feelings in the city centre.

Building the cosmopolitan connection Echoing the brand’s spirit of ‘The Ownly Place’, the ultimate aim of TOWNPLACE is to blend personal and social spaces, crafting a lifestyle that gives residents both autonomy and a sense of community in any personalised mix that they prefer. “MY TOWN” interface on the app allows TOWNERs to communicate across properties, building an extensive network. They can sign up to tailored and exclusive workshops and networking events facilitated by the dedicated community team, such as rooftop yoga and floral arrangement classes, to create a close-knit community contributing to the comfort and sense of ownership.

TOWNPLACE has even connected TOWNERs from offline to online, by launching an online interactive yoga workshop to encourage them to maintain strong minds, bodies and souls. Also, TOWNERs can enjoy the exclusive privileges of local restaurants and shops in the neighbourhood which are specially facilitated by the Community Team in building a powerful TOWNPLACE community. Nonetheless, TOWNERs can connect with each other on “MY TOWN” in bringing like-minded residents together for fun and cooperation.

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Flexible and hassel-free smart living experience Technology in the home appeals greatly to the millennial generation and this is where TOWNPL ACE holds a winning edge. Thanks to a TOWNER-exclusive app, residents can book Duo Social Space facilities and enjoy hospitality services around the clock.

The ap ar t me nt s fe ature t he l ate st te chnolog y wit h ame nit ie s including built-in wireless charging and home automation. At the two residential locations, some of the apartment facilities are remotely controlled by an exclusive app, including lighting, air conditioning and television. TOWNPLACE SOHO residents can even control the Bluetooth speakers in the bathroom to further enhancing their living experience.

They can also sign up for social activities organised by the Community Team and manage household appliances with just the mobile app. Instead of resident cards, TOWENRs use a QR code through TOWNPL ACE App to access lobby, communal spaces, lifts and different facilities. They can also assign a QR code to visitors as an electronic pass for greater convenience. For TOWNPLACE SOHO resident s , they utilise smar t phone authentication technolog y to open their apar tment’s hotel-st yle electronic door locks, which adds to the tech-savvy experience. The app also notifies TOWNERs when they have received posts in their mailbox which is equipped with a smart sensor.

For today’s mobile generation, relocation turns into a hassle-free task with these highly flexible leasing and furnishing options on of fer at t he all new TOWNPLACE residences.

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18 Caine Road, Central, Hong Kong Call/Whatsapp/Wechat: +852 7073 3300

www.townplace.com.hk info@townplace.com.hk TOWNPLACE 本舍

townplacehk

TOWNPLACE KENNEDY TOWN 97 Belcher’s Street, Kennedy Town, Hong Kong Call/Whatsapp/Wechat: +852 9383 9979

Direct book with TOWNPLACE with No Agency Fee!

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First-class living environment I

n treating its wood products with respect and individual attention, Schotten and Hansen creates flooring and interior finishes that wear well and stand the test of time. Attention is focused on bringing out the timber’s natural properties, enhancing a timeless beauty found only in the natural world.

“A tree often has to mature for 300 years before we can process it,” says Schotten & Hansen founder, Torben Hansen. “Wood is not a lifestyle product like plastic laminate that will only last 10 years. We have to prepare wood in such a way that it can last a long time as it also carries our footprints along with it.”

“Working successfully with wood depends on a lot of experience and an intuitive understanding of this wonderful natural material. We combine the two,” he says. “To me, wood floor or wall panels, should be as unique as the person Text: Mike Staley

Photos: ROF Media

Bryan Chan

who treads on it, or walks past it. Its beauty stems from the natural material itself. Nature’s finest materials, craftsmanship, quality and variety represent the central values that form the basis of all Schotten & Hansen’s work. We bring spaces to life with our floorboards, parquet, stair systems, doors, ceilings, wall panelling and furniture fronts.”

The southern German firm has a more than 30-year tradition of tailor-made timber work, always by hand, with meticulous attention to each order – from the layout for each room covered down to the selection, sizing and treatment of every plank. Individual care and craftsmanship by hand are bywords for a company that always pursues perfection.

Schotten & Hansen creates flooring, wooden interiors and furniture from the finest-quality timber, lovingly handled to transform spaces and age beautifully.

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Exclusive Sales Partner of Schotten & Hansen Phone: +852 2833 6069 Email: info@schotten-hansen.com.hk www.schotten-hansen.com

ON-TREND, NATURAL LOOKING FINISHES Osmo Natural Oil Woodstain in Rosewood was selected at this elite villa, located at Mount Nicholson, Hong Kong, to provide the most durable protection for the refined timber pool decking that lines the opulent pool featuring elegant green Swiss tiles, imported exclusively for this private residence.

Osmo Natural Oil Woodstain is a decorative, natural oil-based wood finish which provides all wood in outdoor areas with durable protection.

Easy and seamless application. Finish stays workable while coating. Finish contains active ingredients for the protection of the coating against mould, algae and fungal attack and has proven itself for decades and under extreme climatic conditions.

The microporous finish allows the wood to breath and reduces the risk of swelling and shrinkage. Water-repellent, extremely weatherproof and UV-stable, surfaces will not crack, peel, flake or blister. Osmo Natural Oil Woodstain is ideal for all wood in outdoor areas. Developed from natural oils and waxes, emphasis is placed on the wood's grain and natural characteristics ensuring all exteriors exude timeless luxury and elegance.

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Managing Construction to the Highest Degree

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he hotel covers about 2,700 square meters, with a GFA of 36.6 thousand square meters. The hotel development is a 25-storey tower with 3 levels of basement and demolition and alternation of 7/F-9/F of the existing China Resources Tower into a Hotel Banquet Hall, with a total contract sum of about HKD1.427 billion.

The St. Regis Hong Kong Hotel is a 5-star curated mansion in the heart of the vibrant Wan Chai district, blending architectural creativity, cultural diversity and timeless elegance.

Text: Guan Manyu

Photos: CR Construction Co LTD

Krista Chan

The work consisted of the construction of structural steel framed hotel tower, curtain wall system, staircase pressurisation system, smoke extraction system, all associated M&E services, Building Management System and interior fitting out works.

CR Construction Company Limited, the main contractor of the hotel development project, started work on the project in April 2016, acquired the occupation permit in October 2018 and handed over to the client, China Resources Property Limited, in February 2019. The hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in Hong Kong and began operation in June 2019. It offers 137 hotel rooms including 115 standard guest rooms, 4 accessible rooms, 15 suites, 2 deluxe suites and a presidential suite.

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Project Limitation The St. Regis Hong Kong Hotel was re-developed from the previous Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) of which the high block was demolished in 2013. The foundation, low block and basement of HKCEC were retained and re-built to become part of the hotel. Due to the limitation of the capacity of the existing foundation, the self-weight of building structure was required to be reduced to accommodate the loading capacity. As such, a composition structural steel frame reinforced concrete structure was adopted.

Due to the location and busy traffic conditions of the site, it was unfeasible to apply for TTAs from the Transport Department, which would have significantly affected the delivery efficiency of aforesaid construction material. Thus, the construction sequence was adjusted so that the main building and auxiliary building were built successively in order to free space for material loading and unloading works.

To provide the best time and logistics management, with the limited working space, the project team set up different working zones and this included the site facilitates layout, short term working schedule, usage of construction plant and working sequences required to be reviewed from time to time amongst the management team, suppliers and subcontractor, at each construction stage, to smoothen the construction works.

Complex Curtain Wall and External Feature Cladding The integration of curtain wall and external feature cladding become a unique design of the building envelope. The hotel tower is covered with unitised curtain wall glass panels and 22 pieces of oversized quadrangular pyramid claddings at each floor. The cladding is fabricated with four individual panels in a quadrangular pyramid shape which shows a bright and shadow-like effect under spotlighting. The size of each panel is larger than the normal cladding panel commonly used in Hong Kong. Also, the tight tolerance of cladding the panels made the fabrication more difficult and may subsequently affect the overall lighting effect. To cope with this, back panels have been added to constrain the shape and dimensions of each quadrangular pyramid shaped panel. A special supervision team has been set to carry out a periodic inspection at the fabricators in China to ensure quality as well as monitor progress.

Construction Safety and Environmental Protection Requirement

Demolition and Rebuilding Work The banquet hall was rebuilt from several levels of the adjacent grade-A office building, China Resources Building, which is connected with the hotel with a link bridge. Plenty of companies and Government offices, such as the Independent Police Complaints Council and the China Visa Office are located in the China Resources Building. The potential noise issue was a big concern for the construction work in an operational office building. To minimise any noise nuisance, low sound-level tools were selected and real-time noise monitoring was deployed to ensure construction noise was within the required levels.

Besides, the project team also appointed Neighbour Relationship Officers to provide efficient communications with the neighbours.

Sea-water Pipe Change-over A pair of existing sea-water chilled pipes (700mm dia) which provided chilled water for China Resource Building’s air conditioning system was located at the hotel area. The pipe was obstructing the hotel building to construct so the work needed to have a change over for these pipes. Since diversion of seawater pipes to new pipes needed three whole days, it was difficult to totally suspend the air-conditioning system for the captioned work.

CR Construction coordinated with the client and contractors to create a smooth working procedure priority. In order to meet the limitations of the change-over period, the project team provided more manpower and resources to monitor and control before and during the sea-water pipe change-over activity. This included adequate time to drain off and fill water, shut down the valve location, lifting heavy pipework method and diversion method.

As the hotel is steel framed, there are a large number of bolt and welding works involved, as well as work at height. Specific construction methods with thorough risk assessment were prepared before carrying out of construction work. Safe working platforms were provided. A Hot Work Permit was applied to all welding works. Pre-work briefs with identification of welding locations and potential risks were arranged every day before welding works commenced. Daily site inspections by safety officers were conducted before works commencement, evaluating the quality of the working platform, adequacy of fire blanket, welding spatter pad and fan blowers. Every day after works, a designated person was deployed to sprinkle water at high risk spots to prevent re-ignition, followed with an inspection by the safety officers. A designated team was also deployed to sprinkle water over small debris and particles to prevent dust rising.

Project Team Management, Organisation and Integration Having a team with the right type of people and effective coordination of their skillsets is the key to success. CR Construction did this from the beginning of the project through the implementation of a comprehensive Project Execution Plan which detailed the project objectives, requirements, organisation, roles, responsibilities and communication procedures.

The project team adopted an ‘open communication policy’ to encourage all stakeholders to communicate and listen openly and supportively, interpret non-verbal messages, give and receive feedback through meetings and team building events.

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Coordination between E

& M and Structure Work

Due to the luxurious interior design, high headroom requirement, hotel licensing statutory requirement, detailed and timely coordination works between the consultants and construction team was required. Since the building is constructed with a structural steel frame, a lot of E&M openings needed to go through structural elements, like beams and columns, during fabrication by the team in the China factory.

To minimise onsite cut out of these E&M openings, sufficient Building Service Engineers and specialist E&M subcontractors were deployed to accelerate the coordination process. Also, a BIM model was created to simulate and visualise the relationship between structural elements and building services, so that the location of opening could be more accurate. To ensure the quality of structural steel frame fabrication and correctness of E&M openings, factory visits and inspections together with the consultant’s representative were also conducted regularly.

Time Management In weekly or bi-weekly progress meetings, the project team presented the completed percentage under the master program to the client and architect. Besides the master program, the team also made two weeks’ short-term program to control the time. So if the program might be delayed, immediate actions could be carried out to accelerate the progress, such as increasing manpower.

Even though the BIM is not required by the contract, recognising the complexity of the project at an early stage, CSD and BIM were used to help illustrate the relationship between the structure and different services, as well as enhance drawing coordination works. The project team used BIM for construction management, combining in a convenient mode of sharing with all stakeholders to maintain the data information.

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YEAR NICHE OF How to define urban revitalisation Old buildings are probably what immediately come to mind – restoring and reusing heritage buildings, as opposed to tearing them down and rebuilding.

“The way we define urban revitalisation is more encompassing; we see the demand for new-build to taper off and we see redevelop existing stock as a more sustainable approach that is more in line with prevalent planning policy.

Hence we work with developers and municipal councils to rethink, readapt and reinvigorate existing property or clusters of adjacent properties, giving them a new lease on life while increasing their overall value from a commercial and social perspective.”

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hile our projects vary in size and scope, one commonality is that we liaise with our clients very early on – sometimes as early as the land acquisition stage. This allows us time to communicate with the client, to comprehensively explore the historical, artistic and economic potential of each redevelopment and weigh the options with the client team.”

JATO also engages consultants and engineers in LEED and WELL early in the design stage so that sustainability is built in, not added in as an afterthought.

Clients are made aware of the increased valuation from day one, says the team, as well as the long-term cost savings.

Talking team and design ideology “Over the years, we have evolved into an interdisciplinary firm with talented architects, interior designers and graphic designers collaborating seamlessly.

This gives us a distinct advantage in roles like master planning, which requires a unified, holistic vision.”

JATO’s team is young and diverse. Many members gained experience at renowned practices around the world prior to joining the firm. An open-plan studio helps to cultivate an open, non-hierarchical culture where problems can be reframed and resolved and ideas can be cross-fertilised. It allows the team to leverage its collective ingenuity, to do things better – and differently.

“Design is a very broad term and, like ‘design thinking’, ‘design language’, etc, is a bit overused when defining what is ‘good’ or ‘bad’. For us, the value of a design is measured by answering two questions: Does it solve problems? We think deeply to discover the challenges and opportunities of each project, to ensure that our design solutions resolve current issues and realise its future potential. For instance, greener buildings that support human wellbeing, enhanced circulation that connects people and businesses, inspiring workspaces that attract and retain talent… Does it connect people, adding social as well as economic value? By capturing and amplifying each site’s unique history and characteristics, we turn structures into landmarks, cocreating social hubs that are loved – not just liked – by people.”

Text: Simon Ho

Images: JATO Design

Krista Chan

JATO

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In business, making it to the seventh year is quite an achievement; thriving for seven years is extraordinary.

Over this time the architects and designers at JATO have emerged as rising stars in the field of master planning and carved out a growing niche in urban revitalisation.

The greatest rewards “The design process is challenging and rewarding at the same time!

There are always many challenges to resolve and we always ask ourselves a lot of questions in order to arrive at the best solution. We treat each project as one-of-a-kind; there’s no set formula or shortcut for devising design solutions. As a project commences, there’s already a vast amount of information, parameters and constraints on the table.

We will dig even deeper through site visits and further research, as we believe that ‘the better the question, the better the answer’. This initial project stage is a case of serious information overload.”

Next comes digesting and contemplating. JATO seeks out cues and inspirations inwardly as well as outwardly, as the source of new ideas.

The team then carries out rigorous preliminary feasibility studies, until they have developed solid propositions. “Then things really start to fall into place!”

Looking forward JATO’s team has gained substantial experience in mixed-use, workspace and transit hub projects within greater China and as mentioned earlier, they have noticed a shift from new-build to redevelopment. As populations mature in many areas, the team is looking to incorporate elderly care/nursing home facilities into some of their projects as a thoughtful complement to the community. JATO has received project enquiries from Vietnam and Myanmar and as cities like Ho Chi Minh City have rapidly developed with full infrastructure, the firm sees lots of opportunity for projects at different scales – from master planning to architecture and interior design.

Chengdu Jinniu District Mixed-Use Development Located at the heart of Chengdu, the 298,000m2 Jinniu District MixedUse Development is dispersed across five separate land plots where there once was a bustling timber processing factory. JATO introduced a series of bridges, decked with wood-textured stone planks, to integrate the metro hub, retail spaces, luxury serviced apartments and other elements as a nexus which relates closely with the surrounding urban fabric and river course.

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Shanghai Lujiazu Gala Mall Gala Mall is located in Lujiazui, Shanghai’s original gateway and home to a number of shipyards since the 1850s.

JATO brought a sense of maritime nostalgia into their refurbishment of the mall, in the form of ocean liner-like decking, cabins and gangways. The redevelopment draws a diverse demographic of patrons, who can enjoy the modern facilities while reminiscing about its rich history.

Nanchang Zhengshen Commercial Development The Nanchang Zhengshen Commercial Development, a mega mixed-use complex, is located in the vicinity of Xihu District between Nanchang’s old town and new CBD. JATO emplaced a series of landscaped terraces interspersed with retail spaces to link up a five-star leisure hotel, corporate and co-working office blocks; and connect people within the vast 280,000m2 site, and with its historic past. The first phase of construction was completed in mid-2019.

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Shenyang Jiuwu Culture City ’Tree of knowledge’ is the theme of Shenyang Jiuwu Culture City, with each leaf symbolising a page. JATO transformed a wide circular stairway into a cosy tree under which readers can nestle and flip the pages. The space also serves as a venue for talks, seminars, book launches and other events. With its inviting atmosphere, optimal lighting and an integral cafe, the cultural plaza has become one of the city’s leisure hotspots.

JATO Design Team

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Hadid-designed Magnum Opus Reaps International Acclaim Information: ZHA

Photography: Laurian Ghinitoiu

Edited by: ROF Media

Derek Leung

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The Opus, Dubai’s stunning commercial development by Omniyat, one of the most visionary real-estate development groups in the Gulf Region, is located in the heart of the Burj Khalifa district in Dubai, UAE, close to the world’s tallest tower, the 828m high Burj Khalifa.

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Gleaming Mixed-use Development Designed by by Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA), the 20-storey mirrored glass development houses offices, serviced apartments, 12 restaurants, a rooftop bar and the newly opened ME Dubai Hotel.

Spanning 84,300 square metres, the Opus was designed as two separate 100-metre-high towers that coalesce into a singular whole—taking the form of a cube. Covering eight storeys, the cube has been ‘eroded’ in its centre, creating a free-form void that is an important volume of the design in its own right. The two halves of the building on either side of the void are linked by a four-storey atrium at ground level and also connected by an asymmetric 38-metre-wide, three-storey bridge, 71 metres above the ground.

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Zaha Hadid Architects project director, Christos Passas, explained,

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“The cube’s double-glazed insulating façades incorporate a UV coating and a mirrored frit pattern to reduce solar gain. Applied around the entire building, this dotted frit patterning emphasises the clarity of the building’s orthogonal form, while at the same time, dissolving its volume through the continuous play of light varying between ever-changing reflections and transparency.”

The void’s 6,000 square metre façade is created from 4,300 individual units of flat, single-curved or double-curved glass. The high-efficiency glazing units are comprised of 8mm Low-E glass (coated on the inside), a 16mm cavity between the panes and 2 layers of 6mm clear glass with a 1.52mm PVB resin laminate.

This curved façade was designed using digital 3D modelling that also identified specific zones which required tempered glass.

During the day, the cube’s façade reflects the sky, the sun and the surrounding city; whilst at night, the void is illuminated by a dynamic light installation of individually controllable LEDs within each glass panel.

ME Dubai Hotel Exploring the balance between solid and void, opaque and transparent, interior and exterior, the design was presented by the late Dame Zaha Hadid in 2007 and is the only hotel in which she created both its architecture and interiors.

The ME Dubai hotel which opened in March this year, incorporates 74 rooms and 19 suites, while the Opus building also houses offices floors, serviced residences and restaurants, cafes and bars including ROKA, the contemporary Japanese robatayaki restaurant and the MAINE Land Brasserie.

Its lobby sits directly under the Opus' signature void, which forms its glass ceiling. Three stories of galleries with projecting balconies ring the perimeter of the space. Gleaming white marble floors are highlighted by the golden edges of plush curved seating areas, upholstered in a rich burgundy. A golden wall curves behind the white hotel reception desks, which are angled and lit by strips of lighting that match the balconies above.

Furniture by Zaha Hadid Design is installed throughout the hotel, including the ‘Petalinas’ sofas and 'Ottomans' pods in the lobby that are fabricated from materials ensuring a long lifecycle and its components can be recycled. The ‘Opus’ beds in each bedroom while the ‘Work & Play’ combination sofa with desk are installed in the suites. The hotel’s bedrooms also incorporate the ‘Vitae’ bathroom collection, designed by Hadid in 2015 for Noken Porcelanosa, continuing her fluid architectural language throughout the hotel’s interiors.

Sensors throughout the Opus automatically adjust the ventilation and lighting according to occupancy to conserve energy while ME Dubai follows Meliá Hotels International initiatives for sustainable practices. Hotel guests will receive stainless-steel water bottles to use during their stay with drinking water dispensers installed throughout the hotel. With no plastic bottles in guest rooms and a program to become entirely plastic free in all areas, the hotel is also reducing food waste by not serving buffets and has composters to recycle discarded organics.

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The precise orthogonal geometries of the Opus’ elemental glass cube contrast dramatically with the fluidity of the eight-storey void at its centre.

Omniyat Executive Chairman and CEO, Mahdi Amjad, said: “The Opus will be aligned with Omniyat’s vision of treating each project as if it were a unique work of art.

The design conveys the remarkably inventive quality of ZHA’s work; expressing a sculptural sensibility that reinvents the balance between solid and void, opaque and transparent, interior and exterior. You always expect to be surprised by ZHA’s designs, but the Opus for ‘ME

by Melia’ Dubai goes beyond what we could ever have anticipated. We are proud to have this amazing project in our portfolio.

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The exterior and interior of ME Dubai blend together seamlessly, showcasing light-flooded atriums, curved spaces and minimalist interiors. ME Dubai offers guests extremely personalised service.

ZHA recently completed another hotel with a curving void, the Morpheus in Macau. Three holes punctuate the middle of the Morpheus, which employs the world’s first free-form structural exoskeleton, designed by BuroHappold, to support the load of the building whilst keeping an open architectural interior.

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Project Team and Consultants Architect: Zaha Hadid Architects Design: Zaha Hadid, Patrik Schumacher, Christos Passas Project Management: Gleeds (London), Omniyat (Dubai) Local Architects: Arex Consultants (Dubai), BSBG (Dubai) Structural Engineers: Whitbybird (London), BG&E (Dubai) MEP Engineers: Clarke Samadin (Dubai) QS Consultants: HQS (Dubai) Faรงade Engineers: Whitbybird (London), Agnes Koltay Facades (Dubai) Acoustic Consultants: PMK (Dubai) Interior Consultants: HBA (Dubai) Hotel Operator: Melia Hotels

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CDF Mall Phase II (CDF Mall II) Creating a leisure-inspired retail destination in Sanya’s Haitang Bay The Sanya CDF Mall Phase II (CDF Mall II) is a pioneering mixed-use commercial development located on Hexin Island in Haitang Bay. Haitang Bay is a stunning tourist destination in China, offering world-class yachting, luxury five-star hotels, retail and entertainment all amidst lush natural surroundings.

Benoy led the masterplanning and architecture design for Phase II of the development, closely collaborating with the China International Travel Service (CITS).

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enoy’s Trevor Vivian, Global Director and Teri Tsang, Director, attended the new development’s official launch early this year, which opened to much fanfare and celebration by senior management at CITS, business associates and media.

Teri Tsang, Director at Benoy, who led the project, explains, “Benoy’s vision was to create a world-class destination in Haitang Bay which combines retail, entertainment and leisure into a comprehensive and transformative development – the first and only development of this type in Hainan province.

In Sanya CDF Mall II, as with all our projects, we employed creative design solutions which are culturally relevant, human-centric and environmentally sustainable, to ensure commercial success for our client.”

Text & Images: Benoy

Phase I, a highly successful shopping centre, was thoughtfully integrated with Phase II via a pedestrian bridge that overlooks the beautiful surrounding landscape. Seamlessly conjoined via multi-level connections and crossovers, the overall development is poised to become an icon and elevate Haitang Bay as an unparalleled international destination.

Soaring canopies inspired by nature Phase II took inspiration from Hainan’s natural habitat and the pearl oysters native to the island. The resort’s defining roof canopies mimic the gentle and sinuous curves of the Hainan pearl, also known as the South Sea pearl.

The smooth, rounded appearance and alluring radiance of the large South Sea pearls are reflected in the soaring canopies, creating a distinctive and captivating appearance.

Benoy carefully considered the location's environment and humid continental climate. The specially-designed roof canopies enhance outdoor comfort: maximizing air circulation and creating solar shading to temper the humid local conditions. They furthermore provide shelter against strong wind and rain during the typhoon seasons.

Phase II’s commercial complex visually echoes sea shells embedded in the sand, whilst the existing Phase I structure is inspired by the native Haitang flower. Both Phases interpret with synchronicity the natural surroundings of Hainan province and culminate in a visually stunning spatial experience.

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Locally-inspired design and world-class lifestyle attractions Phase II integrates four different themed areas—lifestyle, sports, culture, and seafood—all masterfully curated to offer an exhilarating customer experience. The lifestyle area houses a premier shopping arcade whilst the adjacent sports area includes various well-known sports brand stores. The cultural area will play host to events and performances, and the seafood area incorporates a seafood market and a diverse range of locally inspired dining amenities.

Sunset reveals a plethora of dynamic nighttime activities, featuring a spectacular water fountain light show and a radiant LED tower that illuminates the evening sky. Enhanced by attractions that amplify local nocturnal charm, Phase II is a must-visit destination for visitors both day and night.

Every step reveals a new theme and a unique discovery, making each visit a rich, varied and singular experience.

The project features a large variety of surrounding greenscapes nestled at the heart of Hexin Island. Incorporating the lush greenery and blue waterways, the development celebrates the surrounding landscape and multi-layered environments through neutral palettes that accentuate the natural light.

Visually inspiring and proudly distinctive in design, CDF Mall II is a diverse space blurring the indoors and outdoors with world-class lifestyle, leisure and entertainment offerings, setting a defining benchmark for mixed-use design in the region.

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(From left to right) Teri Tsang, Director, Trevor Vivian, Global Director and Jin Zhong, Associate Director, attend the opening celebrations of Sanya CDF Mall II.

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Influencer Q & A with

Simon Fallon What is the key advantage of repurposing Hong Kong’s old building stock?

Since the 1950’s Hong Kong has generally renewed its buildings almost every 50-60 years.

With ever increasing demand for space and scale of modern commercial and residential developments, new developments can have adverse impacts both on the local built context, the heritage character and how it engages with the community of an area. The advantages of repurposing are both in retaining familiarity, being sustainable and also adding value back to a district or neighbourhood.

If buildings have served their purpose why don’t we just pull them down and start again?

“if it isn’t broken then don’t fix it’ is a well-established saying from T. Bert (Thomas Bertram) Lance, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget in Jimmy Carter's 1977 administration. Although we cannot always as preserve all buildings due to being less suitable for their proposed needs, we need to reconsider the need for total demolition as technically they may not really be ‘broke’. With latest structural innovations, old structures can be renewed and strengthened to take considerably more floors. Greenland Development has done this in the former Water Board building in Sydney adding a further 30 storeys to an existing 32 level steel tower structure.

If the land was of higher value would there still be a case to retain old industrial buildings?

This depends on the developer’s overall goals. Yes, they could be retained depending on their character, age and what they might bring to the locality.

Renovations of older industrial buildings can be achieved in less time and therefore the return on investment can be sooner rather than later with smaller impacts to the community and environment. However, if the zoning of an area/ district changes over time from say, residential to commercial, and the structure of the building is not suitable for this purpose then this is a perfect opportunity to restart and add a new landmark to the area.

If the Government is so keen to repurpose the ci ty’s old factories, why is there so much red tape involved?

Hong Kong is very tricky when it comes to planning. Many observers call it the ‘ugly beautiful’ city where pragmatism and practicality can far outweigh aesthetics and what many see as common sense. Also, many older warehouse buildings may not fit within the Urban Renewal Authority master pans that require maximum usage of the site’s potential. This can then causes issued and delays in adapting these buildings. It also depends on their usage. Converting deep floor plates for some typical warehouses may not meet current planning guidelines for residential of commercial areas and therefor full-scale redevelopment is necessary.

Apart from replacing the building services what are the major challenges in repurposing old industrial buildings?

Making sure it meets the criteria for the latest planning and change of use requirements. Larger spaces may require additional fire egress, vertical transport (lifts) and fire proofing. Also access to natural light and ventilation. However, with broader thinking and good planning, old or new larger scale industrial spaces can become the greatest and most agile spaces for continuous adaptive reuse.

What are some significant factors in adaptive reuse projects and what skill sets are required for these sorts of projects?

Some of the biggest differences both to investors, architects and their tenants

Text: Mike Staley

Photos: ROF Medias and PMDL

is the knowledge that the building has had a new lease on life, its purpose is renewed and adapted and hopefully with careful planning, can be adaptable to meet another 50 years of use.

The skillsets required are a real understanding in the site’s context, its heritage and development restrictions and of course urban planning issues. Most importantly it’s to ‘Think before you draw’ by engaging with a creative team to explore the building’s real potential through creative idea sharing and collaboration.

Through adaptive reuse can old buildings rival new towers in providing high quality commercial spaces?

New towers have their place, both in new and brown field development sites and supporting urban regeneration. They don’t need to rival each other in quality space but what they can to is complement each other as integrated mixed developments that take both the old and the new together. This can support both the human needs for familiarity of area along with the growing needs for sustainability and urban renewal.

"Today’s society is looking for more than the new building, they are looking for sustainability, mindfulness, provenance and within an identifiable community."

What are the business sectors that might benefit the most from repurposing old building stock?

There are various types of sectors that can benefit depending on their overall business goals and spatial requirements. Examples are real-estate investments trusts that perhaps focus on more boutique commercial or hospitality offers, commercial developers and retail investment funds as well as residential developers who are looking for value added management as opposed to clean slate developments that are sold off.

Can Hong Kong’s creative industries find a way to thrive in the city’s old industrial buildings and what is preventing this from happening?

The creation of large-scale multi-use space is fundamental for the creative industries. Urban warehouse space has been a long standing back drop for these events. This does not necessarily mean we need to reuse all old buildings. These can also be created as new with multiple uses in mind. The 1111 Lincoln Road Car park in Miami Florida by Herzog & De Meuron demonstrates that a simply

Derek Leung

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designed multi-use building can be both practical, iconic and be seriously cool by providing a stage set presence at night whilst alleviating the city’s traffic and parking issues during the day time. This gives the space a real 24-hour usage and increased life time. Developers need to engage architects and designers to think beyond the current purpose of the site and see where real long-term value can be added to ensure full usage and efficiency.

Are there any examples of successful adaptive reuse projects in Hong Kong?

There are many. The Tung Fat building in Kennedy town is a good example of seeing the potential of a residential structure whist maintaining and updating the character. Of course, the Tai Kwun development in Central has been a pioneering success through strong narrative, respect and consideration to the heritage architecture and new contemporary insertions into the site to adapt the space to the modern needs. We also completed the conversion of 1960’s Tong Lau in 379 Queens Road, Central by using the building’s framework to be readapted to meet modern lifestyle needs.

Are there examples from overseas that Hong Kong could learn from?

Hong Kong is quite unique in its tight urban form and land usage. It would be difficult to compare to other cities as space is really the issue. There is a growing trend for retention and transformation of existing structures to create new and innovative spaces that can be tailored to the discerning tenants who might want provenance and character. An example would be the relocated Central St Martins college in London, UK. They took series of large derelict heritage warehouses and created new contemporary architectural insertions to adapt the spaces to their needs. This approach was both respectful to the areas past and was an inspirational trigger for the rejuvenation a once very derelict area of London.

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d L n a MD 的國 香 P 有廣泛 L 是 一 家 國 際 範疇擁 Fallon 是 D Simon ，在多個建築 和生活。PM 香 設 澳洲和 作 監 在 工 總 ， 洲 務 所 亞 業 務 和 事 洲 計 澳 設 、 在歐洲 域建築和室內 領 級的多 。 室 有工作

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Text: Joe Wyatt

Photos: WAF

Krista Chan

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LocHal Library 蒂爾堡 LocHal 圖書館

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46 FEATURE

Urban Home of Nature 遠洋椿萱茂璞灣

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49 HUB Warehouse 116 With extended working hours plaguing the lives of designers, it is important to create a space that is not only aesthetically sound and functional to the nature of work, but one that also promotes a creative atmosphere and fosters an inviting workspace. Warehouse 116 is a refurbished storehouse turned open office space composed of a 50-year-old structure. The building’s time-honoured wooden columns and beams capture every detail of its history as a Fiat assembling factory.

White bricks line the walls, cement with acid-finish covers the floor, and custommade galvanised steel pipes add to the eclectic furniture. As mesh windows divide the open space, the combined use of natural and artificial light creates a balance of an effective working environment and a relaxed atmosphere. A side-skylight ensures natural light throughout the day without drawing heat, and direct-skylight in the materials room allows for proper material review. The creative energy of the materials room is evidenced by the vibrant fabrics, refined marbles, and colourful laminate samples which line its walls. This warm creative space exudes the working culture of its designers - a culture where, according to IA49, working together is the “driving force” behind successful work.

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50 FEATURE

Jiangnan Mintage Museum and the Kingjee Group headquarters

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52 CITIES

WAN CHAI CONNECTS

B

illed as Hong Kong’s equivalent of the New York High Line,Wan Chai Connect is a vision for the future, weaving old Wan Chai and the harbour, back together.

Making something out of nothing,Wan Chai Connect is a progressive idea conceptualised to deliver true world-class placemaking, a significant new public space, maximising societal value, connecting the fragmented, and making it safe, enjoyable and smart to walk easily around Wan Chai. Wan Chai Connect would act as a catalyst for Wan Chai’s future growth and prosperity and Hong Kong’s status as a true international gateway city, well into the future.

The Government of the Hong Kong S.A.R is selling its Wan Chai government complex site in 2021, that currently houses three office towers and a fire station.This will be then be redeveloped to extend the conference centre and provide new commercial space.

The site is the largest and most strategically located in Wan Chai, located front and centre to the most significant challenge to Wan Chai – the eight lanes of Gloucester road that scars and cuts Wan Chai connectivity in half.The redevelopment therefore merits special consideration, now.

POSITIVEVISION, UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY The Wan Chai Connect Design Group (Design Group) is a multi-disciplinary team of urban professionals who care passionately about the city. They view this as a unique opportunity to revitalise Wan Chai socially, economically and environmentally as a significant positive vision for Hong Kong’s iconic status as Asia’s World City.

The independent Design Group proposes to significantly enhance the redevelopment of the site by creating an innovative “Golden Triangle”. This triangle will reconnect north-south Wan Chai from the mountains to the harbour and build an east-west promenade over Gloucester Road from the Arsenal Street Flyover to the China Resources Building via an elevated park.

This will provide 55,000 square metres of state-of-the-art outdoor public space for Wan Chai, creating a new Central Business District that will transform the future trajectory of the district and Hong Kong. The visionary plan will bring Hong Kong waterfront back to old Wan Chai by connecting the new convention hall to existing office buildings and linking adjacent areas, including Admiralty, Wan Chai, Exhibition MTR Stations, Wan Chai Ferry and Tramlines, via a landscaped, elevated promenade – a precious people-centric sanctuary for rest, relaxation and enjoying the city. After all, cities are about people not vehicular transport, i.e., cars!

Serving as a catalyst for regeneration, Wan Chai Connect provides not only people-centric connectivity, but also delivers a significant new public space in the very heart of the business district.

Text: Peter Dampier and Peter Brannan Photos: DCMSTUDIOS Architecture Jasper Lau All images copyright DCMSTUDIOS Architects

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Wan Chai Connect Design Group Lead Consultant / Ideation / Buro Happold Multi Disciplinary Engineering / Sustainability Strategy Conceptual Architects Urban Design

DCMSTUDIOS Architects

Conceptual Master Planning

Studio B

Cost Management

Currie and Brown

Public Relations Stakeholder Engagement

Executive Counsel

Real Estate Advisory

Knight Frank

Socal Economic Impact

Waters Economics

BuroHappold marketing and relationships director, Peter Dampier, said: “Serving as a catalyst for regeneration, we hope this sparks serious debate around the provision and ownership of quality public space. Private developers haven’t always historically worked with local communities to create functional but iconic public spaces or looked beyond the site to maximise value.”

The Design Group believes that the provision of public space should be considered now in conjunction with the needs and desires of the Wan Chai community.The estimated cost of Wan Chai Connect’s social infrastructure (excluding the extension to the convention centre and new commercial tower) is HK$1.65 Billion.

Wan Chai Connect presents a rare, visionary and unmissable opportunity to restore Hong Kong’s position as a leading World City.

Studio B managing director, Peter Brannan, said:“Taking inspiration from innovative projects such as New York High Line (an abandoned railway redeveloped into a green walkway and now the No.1 tourist attraction in New York), Seoul’s Seoullo (a former highway transformed to a sky garden) and Hong Kong Mid-Levels escalators (that has catalysed commercial opportunities whilst sustainably assisting mid-levels commuting to central), Wan Chai Connect presents a rare, visionary and unmissable opportunity to restore Hong Kong’s position as a leading World City.

“Our vision involves seamlessly and holistically re-connecting Wan Chai with its lost waterfront; cross-pollinates community, encourages a healthier, walkable, “15-MinuteCity” lifestyle; integrates with the city’s enviable public transport network; re-prioritises the needs of people before vehicles; and creates a landmark icon capable of re-establishing Hong Kong as a global leader in urban innovation,” says Brannan.

Wan Connect proposes to: • Resolve pedestrian access across Gloucester Road and alleviate the numerous transport constraints in Wan Chai • Increase the land value of the WCGOC site • Enhance accessibility and connectivity for Wan Chai residents’ • Create a healthier city by reinventing public spaces • Future-proof Wan Chai as the place to live, work and play on the north shore of Hong Kong Island • Redefine Hong Kong Island’s skyline • Regenerating the urban fabric of one of Hong Kong’s oldest districts • Provide the largest new public space in Hong Kong for over 20 years.

Conceptual Architects and Urban Designers of the Wanchai Design Group, DCMSTUDIOS Architects’ Managing Director, James Gibson, said: “This is a golden chance. We are inspired to present a grander idea, to address perhaps one of the last opportunities to rectify this connectivity chasm that still remains. So, we present a step forward with a new and dynamic vision for the future of Wan Chai and the greater city, Asia’s World City and an integral part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.”

Currently, Wan Chai Connect is at the conceptual stage of design and seeks further contributions from the public and stakeholders including: The Wan Chai community, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, District councillors, Office workers, the Harbourfront Commission, Commercial building owners, Development professionals and Government and associated bodies.

Wan Chai Connect hopes to provoke a lively discussion with the above stakeholders and the community. Starting the debate on the strategic importance, optimisation and wider consideration of this unique site as the fulcrum to Wan Chai’s future and the creation of a world class placemaking solution, befitting the citizens of Hong Kong living in one of the world’s truly great cities.Albeit a city with the potential to develop even further.

54 CITIES

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58 OPINION

is the new normal Part 1. EDUCATION During this time of pandemic-driven lockdown, we have witnessed a remarkable evolution in education that had typically been delivered through traditional teaching methods and environment s. Academic institutions have, up until now, largely been unaltered. These environments would not be incomprehensible to a 19th century teacher or don who was teleported into the 21st century, to make such an inspection. Yet these environments are now gathering dust as students have retreated to virtual classrooms and lecture theatres from the (dis) comfort of their own home (delete as appropriate).

If there is a lesson to be learnt from this period of change, it is that there needs to be a balance between the transfer of knowledge in-person and in-virtual space, with a curriculum that is conceived as a ‘kit of parts’ that embraces both.

Cambridge University, one of the oldest and most venerated academic institutions in the world, is also one of the first institutions to acknowledge the new normal and the heightened importance of online learning as a supplement to traditional forms.

This provides an opportunity for academic institutions. Having a combination of online and in-person teaching can reduce the costs of running a full capacity education campus, and potentially allows the institutions to pass those savings down line to the students – making the education arena more competitive but also more attractive and accessible for all.

For prospective students, the benefits go beyond accessibility and affordability; blended learning in the future may become a necessity. Average life expectancy has increased from 65 between 1985-1990, to 72 years between 2015-2020. Arguably, the life-long job and token gold watch upon retirement is becoming an obsolete model, and there is the increasing prospect of people having more than one career in their lifetime, which would warrant further education. It would therefore seem imperative that blended education provides life-long learning to allow everyone to continually ‘upgrade’ their knowledge and understanding of life’s complexities to stay relevant.

In seeing this trend, Pomeroy Academy have created blended learning courses, modules, masterclasses and lectures that serve to provide life-long learning for those interested in enhancing and upgrading their knowledge of sustainable built environment issues. Pomeroy Academy has also forged partnerships with leading universities globally, such as University of Cambridge, UK, James Cook University, Singapore and King Saud University, Saudi Arabia to provide interdisciplinary programmes for built environment professionals looking to enhance their skills in an increasingly competitive job market.

In light of this, perhaps it’s worth considering when was the last time you gave yourself a knowledge upgrade, and embrace this pandemic’s home-based realities not as a hindrance, but as an opportunity.

Text and Images: Professor Jason Pomeroy

Krista Chan

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Shanghai ITC 上海徐家匯中心

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SCAN TO KNOW MORE About Professor Jason Pomeroy Prof. Jason Pomeroy is an award-winning architect, academic, and TV presenter. He is the Founder of Singapore-based sustainable urbanism, architecture, design and research firm Pomeroy Studio, and sustainable education provider, Pomeroy Academy. Jason is also a passionate advocate for creating sustainable built environments through his critically-acclaimed books and television series’. www.jasonpomeroy.sg

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62 OPINION

NEW-AGE NERDS,

CREATING EMPATHY What is Computational Consulting?

Computational Consulting (CC) uses analytics and big data to bring together various areas of expertise in the AEC industry and enable seamless collaboration. To make or operate a building, one will face challenges that require an overlap of skillsets to solve– financial analysis, development, architecture, engineering, construction, operations. Computational Consulting fills the gaps in the fragmented AEC paradigm - by translating information into a common format, we can gain unique insights and apply analytical algorithms – from simple arithmetic’s to spatial algorithms to machine learning.

Computational Consulting is a flexible, but powerful, approach to solve problems at all stages of the property life cycle.

You mention big data and analytics – so is CC an app or piece of software?

No. There is always some give and take with off-the-shelf software. On one hand, you get a tool that is easy to use and helps you do a task faster than you could do it before. On the other hand, software companies engineer their products to be optimal for a certain market, which usually means their software solves one type of problem well but lacks flexibility. This can present an issue for AEC, where every building is unique in its own way and solutions related to a building’s financing, development and operations will need to be somewhat tailored, so mass-produced software often comes up short. To solve this, a computational consultant codes modular tools which can be deployed in a flexible manner.

The relationship between off-the-shelf software and a regular screwdriver is similar to the relationship between the modular tools we create and the bits of the screwdriver set.These tools are not the product itself, but are instead a modular kit of parts which can be converted into custom software for bespoke, complex problems.

to quantitatively reduce risk, to asset managers keen to make better use of collected data to increase tenant satisfaction. In all these cases, we are working closely with clients to understand their unique problems, and using data to gain a competitive advantage in the market.

What are the some of the big challenges facing the AEC industry that you help solve?

So Computational Consulting is more a flexible approach to problem solving using data - can you give a specific example of how this works practically? There’s been a lot of talk recently of modular construction for instance - how do you add value in this space?

The biggest challenge we constantly find ourselves solving relates to AEC fragmentation, and working in the spaces where traditionally gaps or overlaps in scope or expertise between various parties result in costs or missed opportunities for our clients. Computational Consulting solves these problems by mixing concepts from design, engineering and analytics, and serves to fill the gaps in the fragmented AEC paradigm.

We consult clients at all stages of the real estate life cycle – from property developers and investment managers who want to use big data insights for their valuation models, to contractors who want to use empirical methods

Text: Mike Staley

Photos: Emidio Piermarini

Derek Leung

When you talk about modular construction, you are talking about a method of construction that should allow for improved site assembly processes and logistics. This leads to a multitude of benefits. But the problems of logistics are quite complex and sits at the overlap of design, space, time and material; modular construction only yields benefits if you can crack this problem by

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optimising the design and processes end to end. For example, something that is easier to make might take longer to assemble or might cost more to transport and vice versa.

It quickly becomes a multi-dimensional problem that only a computer can optimise; and only if a computational consultant describes the problem to the computer and connecting all the data sources. This is what we do: we invent flexible tools to solve those problems – and add them into our toolkit!

These tools help us navigate this complex space, allowing us to run bespoke simulations for a particular site’s construction logistics and to run cause/effect analyses. The insights allow us to advise our clients how to best optimise such logistics, which in turn reduces their risk and maximizes their profits.

What skillsets does a Computational Consultant have?

A Computational Consultant is a hybrid problem solver that must wear two hats – the first is that of a subject matter expert (for example, real estate valuation, design, engineering, construction, or operations) and the second is that of a coder. The first hat enables empathy with human collaborators and means the consultant can fully understand the depth and complexity of real problems at hand. The second allows for the computational consultant to utilise the full potential of computing and data to solve problems.

It seems a Computational Consultant doesn’t follow a traditional education or career path.

Please explain your journey into this field from college into the workforce. What is one of the most rewarding aspect of your work at this stage in your career?

I’ve always been a nerd and taught myself code when I was 15. From that point on, I was addicted to mixing what I was learning in school with coding. I studied structural engineering in college. Once I joined the industry, the ability to mix my engineering problem solving skills and code made me indispensable on some of the biggest challenges for multiple mega-projects. Now I solve complex problems using experience from those projects and computation hand in hand. The most rewarding part of my job is working with experts from many different backgrounds on problems that have no ‘solutions manual’.

What are the manifestations in AEC resulting from the ability to process such large amounts of data and using algorithms?

Currently, most would say buildings with complex geometrical forms. These projects tend to be the most frequently associated with this approach because the form of the building is the manifestation of a radical outcome resulting from this different approach. Having worked on many projects like this, I have to admit, I am one of the people who has been responsible for promoting this narrative. I tend not to do this this as much anymore, though, as it gives the wrong impression. This computational approach is about radically different outcomes; architecturally complex forms are just one example of

I like to use this analogy to describe the difference. Think of a regular screwdriver – it is very straightforward to use, but solves only one problem. Now think of a modular screwdriver set which has interchangeable bits – because of its modular bits, it can accomplish much more, but requires a bit more expertise to operate.

these outcomes. We can use this same computational approach to build a geometrically simple building in half the time, using half the natural resources, or with double the profit for our clients.

Where is this taking us as AEC professionals or as humans?

Our education and work institutions encourage a siloed mentality – you are either an architect, engineer, artist, designer or computer scientist. But the future will be more about people being “T-shaped” – having a depth of knowledge or expertise, but also a broad understanding of other domains. The lingua franca of these T-Shaped individuals will increasingly be computer code – that isn’t just my opinion, but that of people like Steve Jobs, Steven Hawking and Mark Zuckerberg.

64 OPINION