PRC Magazine #113

2023/2024 Issue 113

Hong Kong / PRC $60

Pacific Rim Construction

INSIDE: World Architecture Festival 2023 reveals its ultimate winners Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Centre a hub of contemporary creativity MAGNA Glaskeramik unites sustainability and ultra-high design GBA 2023 honours creation of sustainable built environments Lead8’s K11 ATELIER 11 SKIES is GBA 2023 Grand Award Winner

ISSN 1684-1956 977168495009

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air-lux is providing outstanding performance also under extreme weather conditions.

Patented air-sealing technology against driving rain, air-infiltration and noise.

Now also as Curved Sliding system for single or bi-parting openings.

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Dec 2023 - Jan 2024 Issue 113

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Publisher: Mike Staley, publisher@rofmedia.com Editor: media@rofmedia.com Contributing Editor: Elizabeth Dooley Editorial Team: Bryan Chan • Billy Leung • Derek Leung • Jasper Lau • Julienne Raboca • Kay Chan • Lakshmi Chirumamilla Business Development: Bryan Chan, bryan@rofmedia.com Tel: (852) 3150 8912 Sales Director: Mike Staley, mike@rofmedia.com Tel: (852) 3150 8989 Account Manager: Alfred Ng, alfred@rofmedia.com Tel: (852) 3150 8911 Account Manager: Howard Tsang, howard@rofmedia.com Tel: (852) 3579 5572 Senior Graphic Designer: Ric Sin, studio@rofmedia.com Graphic Designers: Eddie Yue, Michelle Morkel Photographers: Raymond Tam, Walter Ding Data & Publishing Administrator: Joey Yeung Printing: Asia One Printing Limited PRC Magazine is published by Ring of Fire Limited 5/F Kong Ling Building, 100 Jervois Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Tel: (852) 3150 8988 media@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 2024 Ring of Fire Limited

Hong Kong

NAME Nokia Bell Labs CLIENT Coima Nokia ARCHITECTURE Garretti Associati Sri LOCATION Vimercate (MB) Italy

PURE METAL TECH

Image of bare trees was imprinted on stainless steel mesh using Pure Metal Tech

D

reamet’s patented technology modifies the metal from the inside to create decorations, graphics and effects, without the use of traditional harmful agents, acid etchings, inks or bluings. The metal remains pure and the finishes created are stable and permanent. Moreover, Pure Metal Tech improves the intrinsic qualities of the metal such as corrosion abrasion, UV resistance and fire proofing performance.

Possible applications: ARCHITECTURE / FACADES / FLOORING / COVERINGS / INTERIORDESIGN / RENOVATION / OBJECTS Dreamet‘s company philosophy is based on the principles of sustainability, ecology, recycling and quality.

ECOLOGY

The innovative treatment on metal surfaces does not require the use of acids, lasers, screen printing, prints, nor polluting techniques.

SUSTAINABILITY Dreamet’s finishes are tested by the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia for corrosion resistance, UV rays resistance and outdoor durability.

Resistance is guaranteed even when the material comes in contact with flames and burners, as well as in environments rich in chlorine.

100% of the energy required is produced by photovoltaic panels and the raw materials come from certified sources.

RECYCLE

We use and decorate pure metallic surfaces. By not applying anything to the metal, 100% recyclability of the material is guaranted.

QUALITY

Dreamet’s technology allows designers to create effects and decoration by modifying the metal from the inside, thereby improving its qualities.

Wholly owned by LCC Group

The innovative metal fabric by Dreamet combined with advanced weaving techniques and tailored graphics pushes the boundaries of design and functionality

Legend Contracting & Consultancy Limited 4th floor, Shum Tower, 268 Des Voeux Road Central, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong

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AIRSIDE Selects Classic Stucco Finishes AIRSIDE is the new 177,000 square metre mixed-use commercial development in the Kai Tak area. Situated in Kowloon’s Central Business District, the 47-storey development comprises a 32-storey Grade A office, and a 65,000 square metre multi-storey shopping mall interconnected with an underground shopping street.

AIRSIDE has embraced a new urban lifestyle concept of wholeness, integrating sustainable living with cultural and lifestyle experiences.

Stucco finishes by Creativo were applied to approx. 12,000 square meters of AIRSIDE’s surfaces. The natural elegance of mineral plasters marries ease of application and resistance and has been used for centuries by Venetian palaces, the smooth and polished surfaces offering timeless elegance.

STUCCO PAINT / MINERAL PLASTERS

The plasters in this line are based on lime and marble aggregates. The use of synthetic additives, such as acrylic binders, is minimised (<2.5%), while the VOC values are close to zero. Durable, healthy and eco-friendly, the timeless qualities of lime make these materials an ideal choice for contemporary, modern surfaces.

VENETIAN PLASTER

It’s a timeless finish that has been widely utilised in the interiors of Venetian palaces for centuries.

The finish boasts a smooth and polished surface that can be burnished to achieve varying degrees of gloss and trowel movement.

During the polishing phase, the trowel strokes create a chiaroscuro effect that can range from subtle to dramatic, adding a sense of depth and dimension to the surface.

Creativo Design & Contracting Co., Ltd. 7/F, Union Industrial Building, 116 Wai Yip Street, Kwun Tong T: 3157 1898 E: info@creativo-ltd.com W: www.creativo-ltd.com

12 PRESS

CHEVALIER, CHINA RAILWAY JV AWARDED CONTRACT FOR LIGHT PUBLIC HOUSING

BUILDING A NEIGHBOURHOOD THROUGH CREATIVE PLACEMAKING

The joint venture team of Chevalier and China Railway at the ceremony.

The joint venture of Chevalier (Construction) Company Limited (Chevalier), a member of the Chevalier Group, and China Railway Construction Group (China Railway) has been awarded the contract for the design and construction involving three sites in the first batch of Light Public Housing (“LPH”) project, by the HKSAR Government. Mr H S Kuok, Chairman and Managing Director of the Chevalier Group and Mr Sun Xiangdong, General Manager of China Railway Overseas Division attended the contract award ceremony earlier.

The ceremony was also graced by the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho; the Under Secretary for Housing, Mr Victor Tai; the Director of Architectural Services, Mr Edward Tse; the Acting Deputy Director of Architectural Services, Mr Alan Sin and Project Director of the Architectural Services Department, Mr Edward Wong. The three projects in the contract are located at Yau Pok Road, Yuen Long, Tuen Mun Area 3A and Choi Hing Road, Ngau Tau Kok respectively.

A total of over 6,300 units, along with the ancillary facilities, will be constructed using Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) method. The internal floor area of these units ranges from 13 to 31m². www.chevalier.com

SCHNEIDER ELECTRIC CALLS FOR URGENT, CONCERTED ACTION

Art in Place (AIP) is an Urban Land Institute (ULI) initiative that aspires to build stronger connections between artists and real estate enterprises through creative placemaking. Tatum Lau and Wendy Tsai of The Oval Partnership, with the coaching and support of ULI Americas, are part of the core team cofounders spearheading the planning and community outreach for Art in Place in Hong Kong. As the first AIP chapter in Asia – connecting communities for a more inclusive and participatory real estate development process – AIP has identified ample opportunities in Hong Kong, where vacant real estate opportunities such as street-side breakout spaces can be utilised for art and cultural purposes, and in return, revitalise a collective neighbourhood identity.

During the summer of 2023, AIP team premiered its inaugural project featuring Fairland Holdings’ Spark City in Mong Kok and Hong Kong artist Joanne Chan.

Inspired by her daily encounters and intuitive observations of her surroundings, Joanne’s abstract painting style injects a vibrant energy into the physical facades and the social fabric of the neighbourhood. Bringing together the community and creating places where people want to be, AIP continues the core values of The Oval Partnership in many ways. www.ovalpartnership.com

ATKINSRÉALIS AWARDED 3 ENGINEERING CONSULTANCY SERVICES CONTRACTS

Schneider Electric concluded the 2023 edition of Innovation Summit Hong Kong on 17 October, which drew nearly 800 attendees, with a passionate call for increased digitisation, electrification, and innovative partnerships for a smarter and more sustainable future. The summit featured a distinguished line-up of more than 30 industry changemakers, as well as strategic partnerships with the Business Environment Council, the Hong Kong Green Building Council, and the International Facility Management Association Hong Kong Chapter, contributing to a thought-provoking agenda uncovering the power of digital technologies and collaboration in the city’s sustainability transition. Amongst the event’s green initiatives is Schneider Electric’s commitment to plant one tree on behalf of each in-person attendee in Hong Kong’s country parks in partnership with Friends of the Earth (HK), a charitable organization conducting policy advocacy, green finance, urban forestry, and community programs in Hong Kong. “Our climate challenge is one which goes beyond the capabilities of individual companies, industries, and geographies,” said Jonathan Chiu, President of Schneider Electric Hong Kong.“Collaborations are key to ensuring that our efforts create meaningful impact. The curation of this year’s event embodied the essence of this belief, by convening business leaders and sustainability practitioners spanning multiple industries and sectors to exchange on the disruptions needed for delivering a more sustainable future.” www.se.com/hk

AtkinsRéalis has been awarded three engineering consultancy services contracts by the Civil Engineering Development Department (CEDD), Hong Kong. The provided services aim to support the CEDD’s projects across Hong Kong that deliver steady and continued land supply to meet the region’s growing demand for housing, commercial, industrial, and other supporting facilities and infrastructure. As part of the three contracts, AtkinsRéalis will provide engineering consultancy services for feasibility studies on site formation and infrastructure work related to various proposed housing and other development sites within Zone 2 and Zone 3 of Hong Kong, as well as investigation, design and construction consultancy services for site formation and infrastructure works for public housing development at Wa Shan, Sheung Shui, North District of Hong Kong. This includes multi-disciplinary consultancy services, such as civil, highway, geotechnical, traffic, water, environmental and construction supervision, underpinned by digital technologies and net zero solutions. www.atkinsrealis.com

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21ST CENTURY RESTORATION FOR LEVER HOUSE, BUILT IN 1952

10 DESIGN CRAFTS OTHERWORLDLY ARCH DESIGN FOR EPICON

The preservation of the modernist icon captures the original aesthetic through a combination of material science and careful craftsmanship.

Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), joins Brookfield Properties and WatermanCLARK, LLC in celebrating the completion of the newly renovated and restored Lever House, an icon since it was completed in 1952. At the time of its completion, Reyner Banham said of the building “It gave architectural expression to an age just as the age was being born.”

Since then, the landmark has been under the care of SOM for over 70 years, a level of stewardship that is unprecedented in the architectural profession. The first major renovation happened in 2001 when SOM restored its facade and today, just over two decades later, the project revitalises and preserves the landmark structure Photo: Lucas Blair Simpson with a restored and reimagined lobby, ground-level public plaza, and entirely new modernised building systems.

The tower’s third floor and 465m² of terraces have been restored and transformed into The Lever Club, an indoor-outdoor hospitality suite with interiors designed by Marmol Radziner. www.som.com

CHENGDU SCIENCE FICTION MUSEUM OPENS

BY HOSTING WORLDCON

NEOM, the sustainable regional development taking shape in northwest Saudi Arabia, has recently announced Epicon, its latest luxury coastal tourism destination, including a residential offering.

Located on the Gulf of Aqaba, Epicon aims to set a new standard of hospitality and architecture. Rising from NEOM’s desert landscape like a glistening mirage, the property will feature two striking towers, one 225 meters tall and one reaching 275 meters. The towers will be home to an ultra-premium 41 key hotel and luxury residences that comprise 14 suites and apartments. A short distance from the hotel is the Epicon resort, which blends tranquility with indulgence and features 120 rooms and 45 stunning residential beach villas. Designed as a gateway to the future, Epicon provides an opportunity to escape the stresses of the everyday. Whether relaxing at the beach club, visiting the spa for bespoke wellness treatments, exploring the surrounding nature, participating in one of the many watersports on offer, or dining at destination restaurants for an unforgettable culinary experience, Epicon has been conceived to meet the full array of guest and resident needs. www.10design.co

MSL MALL - A TRANSFORMATION BY ALEXANDER WONG ARCHITECTS

Surrounded by mountain ranges and forests, the city of Chengdu has cultivated unique local traditions and culture rooted in its rich history that includes the celestial forms within the carvings and masks of the Bronze Age Sanxingdui civilization. The capital of Sichuan province in Southwest China, Chengdu has grown to over 20 million residents as an important centre of scientific innovation and research. The 59,000m² Chengdu Science Fiction Museum has opened by hosting the World Science Fiction Convention (Worldcon), the first time the event has been held in China. Bringing together programmatic and functional clarity while responding to its unique site conditions, the museum appears to float above from the surface of the lake.The fluid forms of its roof radiate from a central point within, emulating an expanding nebula cloud with a star at its centre – transforming the museum into a ‘star cloud’ that disperses energy fields into its many different zones; guiding visitors through a portal that connects our lived experience with our imagination. Meeting the highest 3-Star standards of China’s Green Building Program, the museum’s design has been developed through detailed digital modelling analysis to maximise efficiencies in composition, site conditions, solar irradiation and structure. The museum’s natural hybrid ventilation optimises Chengdu’s mild subtropical climate to provide comfort for visitors and staff throughout the year. www.zaha-hadid.com

Inspired by the traditional villages of Asia, the renovation of the latest MSL MALL in one of the earliest developed areas of Hong Kong, namely Shek Tong Tsui in the Western District of Old Hong Kong, is a huge challenge for the design team of Alexander Wong Architects. Many old and smaller shopping malls, the first generation of its kind in the urban fabric of a bygone era, is going through a series of huge transformations, some swankier than others, but the important question to ask is: Who is the mall built for? “These typical ‘Neighbourhood Arcade Malls’, many built in the roaring 50s, 60s and 70s in Hong Kong, were a first of their kind but certainly a relic of the past now. Many have become old and dilapidated with poor or next-to-zero maintenance and upkeep. Some have become dark with severe glare problems during the day and lack of proper lighting after nightfall. Even the communal conveniences were designed right next to an open yard without weather protection which seem slightly archaic to us now,” says Alexander Wong. “The challenge here is how to respect existing residents and the culture of its neighbourhood whilst injecting a new energy into the mall.” www.alexanderwong.com.hk

14 PRESS

MACAU LRT BARRA EXTENSION LINE BEGINS COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has completed the construction and delivery of the Macau Light Rapid Transit*1 (Macau LRT) Barra Extension line, which was awarded by the Public Works Bureau (DSOP) of the Macau Special Administrative Region of China. The line commenced commercial operation on 8 December. The Barra Extension (1 station expansion, 3.2km) project was constructed by laying a dedicated Macau LRT Lane within an existing bridge, connecting the Macau Peninsula on the opposite bank to the Taipa Line (11 stations, 9.3 km), which MHI delivered in 2019. Traffic congestion in Macau has been an issue due to the increasing number of tourists and population growth.

The Macau LRT is a key transportation infrastructure connecting the airport and ferry terminals, which are tourist access points, with resort hotels and residential areas. This extension line connects the Taipa Island, which is lined with resort hotels, to the Macau Peninsula, where the city centre is located, to improve convenience and alleviate traffic congestion. Construction work on two additional extensions is underway. MHI Group aims to respond to regional aspirations around the globe with solutions that will contribute to economic development and enhanced transportation convenience, while simultaneously helping to realise a low-carbon society. www.mhi.com *1: The original abbreviation of LRT as “light rail transit” is widely used, but Macau LRT instead uses it to mean “light rapid transit” after the system’s high-speed performance.

INTEGRATED INFRASTRUCTURE FOR POWER SUPPLY & WASTE COLLECTION Faced with the challenge in upgrading the electrical supply and waste collection in the old town, in 2016, CEM, the Macau Electrical Company (CEM – Companhia de Electricidade de Macau) and IAM, the Municipal Affairs Bureau of Macau (IAM – Instituto para os Assuntos Municipais) decided collectively to commission these two types of infrastructure by assigning a single plot of land to both and have them stacked up in multiple levels. It represented an innovation to which there was no administrative framing in the city`s zoning. The project for Photo: Nelson M S Silva Beco dos Faitiões was the first project conceived with this new procurement policy. The Plot size: 15.63m², Gross building area 30.38m² and the project cost was USD$370,000. Architects Rui Leão & Carlotta Bruni, for (LBA Arquitectura e Planeamento lda), understood from the start of the project that the concentration of infrastructure implied in the brief would have a huge impact in the old neighbourhoods with their very delicate configuration of scale and the historic fabric with its inherent organic character. The project is the first commission launched to optimise the design of these utilities in an integrated solution occupying a single urban plot.The site is located in a historical neighbourhood near the old harbour. The building was commissioned for a transformer room and waste collection room. https://lbamacau.net

2023 AIA HONG KONG HONORS AND AWARDS

The American Institute of Architects Hong Kong Chapter 2023 AIA Hong Kong Honors & Awards were held at The Rotunda, Exchange Square on 4 December.

The AIA Hong Kong Chapter’s annual Honors & Awards Program celebrates outstanding work in architecture, interiors, urban design, and unbuilt projects undertaken by our Chapter’s members and other licensed architects practicing in Hong Kong, China and the Asia Pacific Region. Through these awards, AIAHK aspires to motivate the community to pursue excellence, embrace sustainability, and ultimately, leave a lasting positive impact on the world around us. For the 2023 Honors & Awards program, five projects were selected for recognition: Honor Award for Architecture: • Kingway Brewery Renovation, URBANUS Merit Award for Architecture: • University Activity Center, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates Merit Award for Urban Design: • Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates Honor Awards for Open International: • Shaw Auditorium, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Henning Larsen Architects Hong Kong • 1 Hotel Haitang Bay, Sanya, The Oval Partnership Sustainability Award: • 1 Hotel Haitang Bay, Sanya, The Oval Partnership This year’s Award recipients were selected by a five-person jury: Emily Grandstaff-Rice, FAIA - 2023 President, The American Institute of Architects; Vivian Lee, FAIA - Design Director, Gensler New York; Toh Tsun Lim, AIA - Principal, PEI Architects; Doreen Heng Liu - Founder & Principal, NODE Architecture & Urbanism; and Barry Wilson, FHKIUD, FHKILA - President, Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design. When selecting this year’s winners, the five-member jury evaluated overall design achievement, considering formal, functional, and technical requirements; implementation of novel approaches; commitment to social progress and environmental sensitivity; and skill and sensitivity in preservation of existing buildings to underscore the ways that “buildings and spaces can enrich lives.” www.aiahk.org

16 PRESS

AEDAS COMPLETES CAINIAO HEADQUARTER - HIGH CONNECTIVITY & ADAPTABILITY

Photos: Terrence Zhang

Providing worldwide logistics services, the new HQ sits to the west of the Future Technology City Yuhang, Hangzhou. It is well-connected to the city through highways and metro lines, as well as natural attractions and green belt, providing high accessibility and rich landscape views. The planning emphasises ‘circulation’ and ‘connectivity’ to reflect Cainiao’s corporate identity. A visitor centre at the entrance offers easy access for workers and visitors. Adjacent to the centre is the main building where the diagonal connections planned inside enhance the accessibility and minimises walking distances. It is seamlessly linked and creates 4 distinctive internal courtyards connected by an atrium. A canopy corridor links all courtyards, offering all-weather access to all places, starting from the entrance. The design creates a porous development, which

enhances circulation and allows natural ventilation. The overall façade design draws inspiration from the company logo, a ‘Nest’ embracing the entire HQ is formed by articulating the company logos. It is also a metaphor of the seamless relationship between Cainiao, its partners and its powerful global network.

Aedas Executive Director, Henry Chau says, “The spaces are linked through the diagonal connection, offering a flexible and open working environment. The headquarters project becomes a well-connected, powerful and elegant building, providing a comprehensive working environment for workers. It sets the horizon of the company to enter a new era.” www.aedas.com

CCCC RIVERSIDE PLAZA AT THE HEART OF YANGPU WATERFRONT

PICTURING THE COSMOS, ATELIER BRÜCKNER DESIGNS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

Located in Shanghai, the CCCC Riverside Plaza is a work-learn-play-culture destination of tomorrow and a new city landmark that embraces the area’s culture, nature, and heritage - a bridge between the past and future. Developed

by China Communications Construction Company, CCCC Riverside Plaza is located at the gateway of the riverside in Yangpu District in Shanghai.

With a total construction area of 189,200m², the project is composed of 7 building units. Among them, Tower A is a 160 meters high-rise tower (3 floors underground and 32 floors above ground); Tower B is 98 meters (3 floors underground, 19 floors above ground); Block C is a historic listed building; and Blocks D, E, F and G offer retail amenities and public facilities. Gensler won an international design competition and was entrusted to create a vibrant and flexible environment linking people and built environment with respect to the history of Yangpu Waterfront. Gensler’s design team worked closely with the heritage preservation consultant on the project to research about the materiality of the historical buildings, the relationship between new and old materials as well as to the historical fabric. The project prioritizes the goal of “People, Profit, Planet” integrating the office, retail and cultural venues with green open spaces and corridors to create a unique community of diverse spaces, programs, and experiences, enhancing the interactions between people and nature. www.gensler.com

The Louvre Abu Dhabi is presenting the exhibition, Picturing the Cosmos, until June 2025. It was designed by ATELIER BRÜCKNER for the children’s museum, a separate building within the iconic architecture of French architect Jean Nouvel. Through original objects, works of art and artefacts, children and young people are given access to the cosmos: playfully, scientifically, immersively – a curated experience over three floors. The ground floor is dark and magical like a starry sky, the upper floor is technical and bright like a spaceship and the basement, where Mars can be explored, is completely bathed in orange. The young museum visitors immerse themselves in worlds of experience and conquer their own knowledge. They scan their barcode wristband, answer questions and receive information according to their age group and chosen language (English, French or Arabic). There are measuring instruments, including an astrolabe (North Africa, 1726/27) and a sextant (Europe, 19th century), as well as works of art: a 2200-year-old Egyptian stele depicting a starry sky and a Hellenistic terracotta bowl showing a solar chariot, both on loan from the Louvre in Paris. The information on the display quenches their thirst for knowledge. Finally, in the centre of the room, a black box offers an immersive experience: projected stars, planets and the Milky Way, mirrored several times, convey a feeling of infinity. www.Atelier-Brueckner.com

18 EVENTS

Think. And then, Showcase Your Sustainability Leadership & Innovation Call to action: Secure Your Spot at ReThink HK 2024

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eThink HK is a unique annual event that helps organisations align sustainable business practices at every stage of their value chain, showcases innovation and the solutions that accelerate sustainable transformation.

ReThink HK unites the ecosystem so all stakeholders and communities can contribute to and look forward to a climate-smart and equitable city, for everyone.

The annual ecosystem event operates under license from the business and sustainability communities that it is privileged to support – uniting stakeholders, demonstrating the business case and strategies for change against a backdrop of innovation and the sustainable solutions needed to achieve a circular economy and strive for a carbon-neutral Hong Kong before 2050.

Why Attend ReThink HK? ReThink HK is designed for business leaders, sustainability practitioners and those responsible for researching and resourcing net-zero and ESG strategies across all business functions; corporate affairs, finance, ICT, marketing & comms, operations, people and procurement.

This market-leading event unites businesses, investors, innovators, government departments and NGOs around a common purpose: to share ideas and accelerate action along the path to a sustainable future for Hong Kong.

• • • • • •

Environmental Impact in Hong Kong ReThink HK is proud to be collaborating with Kadoorie Farm & Botanical Garden to support and advance their “Wood Recycling Programme” as part of our ambition to run carbon-neutral events. The project strives to recycle wood debris generated from routine tree works through investing in a biochar machine, which converts bulky, rotten or diseased wood into valuable biochar, a soil amendment that benefits the soil and plant growth.

To help mitigate the impact of the event the team from ReThink HK have planted 4,600+ trees through our partner OneSeed. The trees are located in Tanzania and are indigenous to the region – this project will counteract the carbon generated from delegate registration and attendee travel to the event.

Vision for RETHINK HK 2024

Texts & Images: HKGBC and BSL

Learn from recognised changemakers and business leaders Build relationships with key stakeholders Research new service providers Source sustainable products and innovative solutions Be part of the growing ambition for change in Hong Kong Support an event that gives back to the community while investing any profits back into the event

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12–13 Sep 2024 Hall 1CDE, HKCEC WanChai, Hong Kong

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20 INTERVIEW

Project: Bulgari Shanghai Designed by MVRDV Photographs : Bulgari, Xia Zhi

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Discerning Designers Favour the Unlimited Potential of Glass

In a world committed to decarbonisation, PRC Magazine speaks with MAGNA Glaskeramik Plant Manager, Mr. Martin Kettmann, about why glass has become such a highly prized building material of choice.

“O

ver the course of two decades in the public relations sector, I have cultivated a specialised expertise in environmental sustainability communications, particularly within the materials industry,” says Kettmann. “This focus naturally aligned with the innovative glass sector, where advancements in recycling and sustainable production have been paramount. My journey through various roles, including strategic communication planning and market research, has equipped me with the insights necessary to represent and advocate for pioneering companies like MAGNA Glaskeramik, which stands at the intersection of design, sustainability, and technology.”

“One of the most iconic projects featuring MAGNA is with Bulgari,” he says with pride. “The high-profile nature of this partnership, along with other prestigious collaborations, underscores the brand's commitment to quality and design excellence.” Kettmann continues, “The time from design to production to installation for key projects such as the Bulgari Shanghai Plaza 66 store varies according to different stages and processes.”

Kettmann says that MAGNA Glaskeramik is distinguished by its strong commitment to sustainability, primarily through its use of recycled materials.

The products are crafted from nearly 100% scrap material from industrial and bottle glass production, which can be fully recycled back into the cycle of materials after use. The production process is designed to align with the Cradle-to-Cradle (C2C) concept, ensuring continuous technical cycles and up to 80% lower CO2 emissions compared to traditional processes. Additionally, the company has been awarded the Cradle to Cradle Gold certification for its sustainable practices.

• Test samples for colour variants took 1-2 months. In order to achieve the desired colour variant, intensive test trials were carried out.

Kettmann continues, “Glaskeramik, as an interior building material, offers several benefits. It is inherently durable and creates a sense of openness and fluidity within spaces. Its reflective properties can enhance natural lighting, contributing to energy savings, and its versatility allows for a wide range of aesthetic and functional applications, from countertops to walls and lighting fixtures.”

The durability of MAGNA glass panels is implied through their sustainability and recyclability credentials, suggesting that they are designed for longevity and can be repurposed at the end of their life cycle. In terms of maintenance, the nature of glass-ceramic materials generally indicates that they are relatively easy to clean and maintain, resistant to stains, and do not require special treatments or solvents.

• Initial sampling was at the end of 2020. At the beginning of the project, primary samples were created to visualise the design and the desired colour variant.

• Determining the thickness of the Glaskeramik panels took around 2 weeks to determine the best variant.

• Collaboration with MVRDV: The entire process was carried out in close collaboration with MVRDV to ensure that the vision of the project was realised.

• The actual manufacturing of the MAGNA Glaskeramik slabs took approximately 4 weeks to produce the specific details and features as per the project requirements.

• Cutting the panels: Once manufactured, a further two weeks were required to cut the panels to the exact dimensions and requirements of the design.

“The Bulgari Shanghai Plaza 66 Store project is an outstanding example of a complex and complex façade cladding that combines not only design, but also sustainability and cultural references. The collaboration between MVRDV and MAGNA Glaskeramik and other partners resulted in an innovative, sustainable façade that reflects the aesthetic and environmental goals of the project.”

Expressing Brand Identity

“Translucence is indeed a significant aspect for lighting and interior designers,” Kettmann continues. “MAGNA Glaskeramik's translucent property allows for innovative lighting effects, which can be particularly effective in brand expression.

The material's ability to be backlit creates a distinctive aesthetic that can amplify a brand's identity through visual storytelling and atmospheric design.”

Indeed, the bespoke nature of MAGNA products means that the designs are limited only by the imagination of the designers and clients. The customisable potential of the material, given its availability in various sizes and colours, opens up a wide array of design possibilities.

Myriad Applications Kettmann says that MAGNA products are utilised for both exterior and interior applications.The company provides a variety of interior solutions such as countertops, walls, and bathrooms, as well as exterior façade panels, indicating a broad scope of applications without a stated preference for either.

Technical challenges in working with glass generally include managing its fragility during the manufacturing process and ensuring its strength and durability in application. Overcoming these challenges typically involves technological innovation in production processes and material treatments, although specific methods for MAGNA are not detailed in the available sources Beyond its sustainable attributes and design versatility, MAGNA Glaskeramik's unique approach to material innovation is worth noting. Each product is not only environmentally conscious but also a piece of art, making it a statement choice for those looking to blend sustainability with high-end design.

Texts: Mike Staley

Images: MAGNA Glaskeramik

22 INTERVIEW

Project: Bulgari Shanghai Designed by MVRDV Photographs : Bulgari, Xia Zhi

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Legend Contracting & Consultancy Limited

Wholly owned by LCC Group

4/f, 268 Des Voeux Road Central, Sheung Wan. Tel: 23388800 email: design@lcc.com.hk Instagram: patioverdehk

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BEAM PLUS CERTIFICATE PRESENTATION CEREMONY 2023

BEAM Plus Certification Attained by 188 Projects Reaching New Milestones by Progressing Towards Carbon Neutrality

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o-organised by the Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC) and BEAM Society Limited (BSL), the BEAM Plus Certificate Presentation Ceremony 2023 was held successfully on 7 December 2023. This year, 188 projects have been certified with BEAM Plus.

Since 2010, BEAM Plus has been Hong Kong’s leading initiative to offer independent rating on buildings’ sustainability performance. The number of certified projects increases year by year, reaching its new milestone. Besides, with support from building owners and property management companies, the number of certified properties under BEAM Plus Existing Buildings has grown substantially. These certified properties have demonstrated that their sustainability performance has met or even exceeded the assessment requirements. Some of them have adopted innovative designs, significantly reduced carbon emissions and enhanced their internal environment for the wellbeing of occupants.

In light of increasing public awareness about green building, HKGBC and BSL are committed to listening to stakeholders’ views and implementing enhancements to the rating schemes. There are more than 42,000 existing buildings in Hong Kong. HKGBC and BSL have put in great effort to facilitate existing buildings to participate in BEAM Plus. Since the implementation of the BEAM Plus Existing Buildings Volume Certification in 2019, 328 real estate properties and 15 property management companies have participated in the scheme.

The interior fit-out assessment tool, known as BEAM Plus Interiors (BI), has recently undergone a revision and was officially launched in late November 2023. This year, for the first time, there were new projects certified under BEAM Plus Interiors V2.0. One of the main focuses of the new version is health and wellbeing. Moreover, BEAM Plus Interiors V2.0 is the first-ever green assessment tool designed for domestic spaces. These premises are assessed with a simple and user-friendly checklist, making it accessible for everyone in the community to evaluate their own spaces. This approach aims to encourage public participation in promoting a sustainable built environment.

BEAM Plus has always been committed to encouraging the industry to raise standards. The Buildings Department announced through the revised Practice Note “PNAP APP-151” that starting from 30 June 2024, building projects will generally need to obtain a BEAM Plus Gold rating or above in order to be

eligible for Gross Floor Area (GFA) concessions for green and amenity features.

This effectively encourages the industry to strive for BEAM Plus Gold or above certification.

In support of the Government’s target to achieve carbon neutrality before 2050, special awards have been presented in the Ceremony since 2021 to recognise projects that have outstanding performance in reducing carbon emissions and using renewable energy. This year, one of the BEAM Plus certified projects, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Shaw Auditorium, has greatly reduced the estimated annual energy consumption; optimised the local wind environment; and maximised exposure to natural daylight, thus achieving and exceptionally high level of sustainable performance.

In June and September respectively, HKGBC launched the “HKGBC Climate Change Framework For Built Environment” and the “Zero-Carbon-Ready Building Certification Scheme”. These tools help the industry to progressively reduce energy consumption with a view to mitigating climate change. In the near future, the latter certification scheme will be incorporated as one of the credits in the BEAM Plus.

As of November 2023, there are more than 2,500 registered BEAM Plus projects, covering a Gross Floor Area exceeding 81 million square meters, equivalent to the total pitch area of 8,300 Hong Kong Stadiums. The expected environmental benefit is a saving of 1.6 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity annually.

Texts & Images: HKGBC and BSL

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For the list and details of BEAM Plus certified projects, please visit:

34 AWARDS

GBA 2023 Embracing Wellbeing

Excellence in Sustainable Built Environment

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inners of the biennial Green Building Award 2023 (GBA 2023) were unveiled on 3 November. Co-organised by the Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC) and the Professional Green Building Council (PGBC), GBA honours the industry's unwavering dedication and tireless efforts towards creating sustainable built environments. Themed “Embracing Wellbeing - Excellence in Sustainable Built Environment”, GBA 2023, the 9th edition, received 147 nominations, a 47% increase over the previous edition, a new record.

The Award Presentation Dinner was an evening of grandeur, with over 500 distinguished guests, government officials and esteemed Jurors to celebrate with the Award Winners. Ms Bernadette Linn, JP, Secretary for Development, Government HKSAR was the Guest of Honour, and was joined by Sr Kenneth Yun, Chairman of the GBA 2023 Organising Committee and the PGBC, Dr Cheung Tin-cheung, SBS, Chairman of the HKGBC and Ar Joel Chan, Chairman of the GBA 2023 Scientific Committee.

117 outstanding projects and organisations were selected as finalists across five categories, including New Buildings, Existing Buildings, Research & Planning, Building Products & Technologies, and Green Building Leadership. 9 Green Building Leadership Pioneer Awards, 16 Grand Awards, and 35 Merit Awards were presented to private and public sectors which were selected by a Jury Panel comprising 33 international and local jurors from various government departments, professional organisations and academic institutions.

Eight projects were honoured with a Special Citation for their remarkable contributions towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and their positive impact on the development of a sustainable built environment.

To honour and recognise excellence in sustainable environment policies and building practices, Sino Group from Developers, Leigh & Orange Ltd. and Tony Ip Green Architects Ltd. from Consultants, Hongkong Land (Property Management) Ltd. and New World Property Management Company Ltd. from Facilities Management, CLP Power Hong Kong Ltd. from Government, Institutions & NGOs, China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Ltd. from Contractors, Alliance Construction Materials Ltd. and Schneider Electric (Hong Kong) Ltd. from Green Products & Technologies Business were awarded the Pioneer Award of Green Building Leadership for their roles in driving the sustainable development of Hong Kong's built environment.

Secretary for Development, Government HKSAR, Ms Bernadette Linn, JP, said, “The Green Building Award recognises excellence in green building design, construction, and operation, showcasing the commitment of stakeholders.

This year, the award has garnered significant recognition, breaking records with a high number of nominations across five categories. These nominations represent projects and initiatives that have set new standards for green design, driving the transformation of our built environment towards sustainability. Hong Kong shares a global vision of sustainable development, actively combating climate change and reducing carbon emissions through smart, green, and resilient design strategies. By working collectively, we have the power to foster a city that is greener, more resilient, and harmonious, ultimately improving the quality of life for everyone.”

To learn more about Green Building Award 2023, please visit www.gba.org.hk.

Information & Images: HKGBC

Caption for the top left photo on the opposite page: The Green Building Award 2023 was honoured to have Ms Bernadette Linn, JP, Secretary for Development, The Government of the HKSAR (2nd left), Sr Kenneth Yun, Chairman of the GBA 2023 Organising Committee and the Professional Green Building Council (1st left), Dr Cheung Tin-cheung, SBS, Chairman of the HKGBC (2nd right), and Ar. Joel Chan, Chairman of the GBA 2023 Scientific Committee (1st right) joined the award presentation ceremony as officiating guests and sharing with the audience their visions on green building development in Hong Kong.

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36 AWARDS

Winners of Green Building Award 2023 環保建築大獎2023 得獎項目/機構 Category 主要類別

Sub-Category 分類

Project/Organisation 項目/機構

Pioneer Award 先鋒大獎 Developers 發展商 Consultants 顧問公司

Green Building Leadership 綠建領導

Facilities Management 設施管理公司

● Sino Group 信和集團 ● Leigh & Orange Limited 利安顧問有限公司 ● Tony Ip Green Architects Limited 葉頌文環保建築師事務所 ● Hongkong Land (Property Management) Limited 香港置地(物業管理)有限公司 ● New World Property Management Company Limited 新世界物業管理有限公司

Government, Institutions & NGOs 政府、公共機構及非政府組織

● CLP Power Hong Kong Limited 中華電力有限公司

Contractors 承建商

● China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Limited 中國建築工程(香港)有限公司

Green Products & Technologies Business 綠色產品及科技行業

● Alliance Construction Materials Limited 友盟建築材料有限公司 ● Schneider Electric (Hong Kong) Limited 施耐德電氣(香港)有限公司

Grand Award 大獎 ● AIRSIDE Completed Projects (Commercial) 已落成項目(商業)

● Integral *with Special Citation 十如 *獲聯合國可持續發展目標特別嘉獎 ● K11 ATELIER 11 SKIES

New Buildings 新建建築

Completed Projects (Residential) 已落成項目(住宅)

Completed Projects (Institutional) 已落成項目(公用) Projects Under Construction and/or Design (Commercial) 興建及/或設計中項目(商業) Completed Projects (Commercial) 已落成項目(商業)

Existing Buildings 既有建築

● ONE SOHO ● Public Housing Development at Queen’s Hill, Fanling *with Special Citation 粉嶺皇后山公營房屋發展項目 *獲聯合國可持續發展目標特別嘉獎 ● Chung Chi Student Development Complex 崇基學生發展綜合大樓 ● Enhancement Works for Kwun Tong Sewage Pumping Station *with Special Citation 觀塘污水泵房優化工程 *獲聯合國可持續發展目標特別嘉獎 ● Six Pacific Place 太古廣場6座 ● Hang Seng Bank Headquarters Workplace Transformation ● The Revitalization of Central Market 中環街市活化工程 ● Citygate 東薈城

Facilities Management 設施管理

● Olympian City 奧海城 ● Wetland Seasons Park

Interiors 室內設計

Building Products & Technologies 建築產品及科技

N/A 不適用

● Apollo - One Exchange Square 36/F New Office Fit-out Apollo - 交易廣場一期36樓新辦公室裝修 ● Integrating Green Building Product - iPaint (Electricity Free Cooling Paint) with Technologies iPaintAI, BIM, GIS, and QR Codes for Cooling Tower Optimization 結合綠色建築產品iPaint (無電自然冷卻塗料) 與 iPaintAI 人工智能、建築信息模型、 地理資訊系統 和 二維碼等技術實現冷卻塔優化 ● Low Energy Sterilizing Nano Air Filter 節能殺菌納米過濾網

Merit Award 優異獎 Completed Projects (Commercial) 已落成項目(商業)

● Taikoo Li Qiantan 前灘太古里 ● Blissful Place *with Special Citation 豐頤居 *獲聯合國可持續發展目標特別嘉獎 ● Caine Hill

New Buildings 新建建築

Completed Projects (Residential) 已落成項目(住宅)

● One Innovale *with Special Citation ● Residential Development at Site I of TKOTL70RP, LOHAS PARK Package 10 ● Tenacity Residence, Ying Wa Street Modular Transitional Housing *with Special Citation 喜信, 英華街組合式過渡性房屋 *獲聯合國可持續發展目標特別嘉獎 ● The Harmonie 映築

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AIRSIDE

Wetland Seasons Park

K11 ATELIER 11 SKIES

GBA 2023

One Innovale

eBooklet The HENLEY

Integral

The Revitalization of Central Market

Public Housing Development at Queen’s Hill, Fanling

Jockey Club – The Conservancy Association Urban Forestry Green Hub

38 AWARDS

Sustainability Leaders in Hong Kong Inside the Green Building Awards ‘Grand Award’ Winner –

K11 ATELIER 11 SKIES

Kong. Congratulations to New World Development, and the entire team of collaborators and partners involved in delivering this green destination for Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA),” said Claude Touikan, Co Founder & Executive Director at Lead8.

Innovating Green Design At the core of 11 SKIES is a commitment to a more sustainable and smarter future. K11 ATELIER 11 SKIES has attained BEAM Plus (New Buildings) v1.2 Provisional Platinum, US LEED Platinum Precertification and WELL Building Standard Platinum Certification, taking the lead in its care for the environment with best practices to promote a greener tomorrow.

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11 ATELIER 11 SKIES was presented a ‘Grand Award’ at the Green Building Awards by the Hong Kong Green Building Council (HKGBC) and the Professional Green Building Council (PGBC) this year.

The commercial office tower project was recognised in the New Buildings category for Completed Commercial Projects. K11 ATLELIER 11 SKIES is the first phase of the wider 11 SKIES destination next to Hong Kong International Airport.

The Green Building Awards recognise building-related projects and organisations that go beyond conventional practices, stretch the boundaries of sustainability, and accelerate Hong Kong’s development into a city that provides wellbeing for all.

The three Grade A office buildings at K11 ATELIER 11 SKIES, complete with state-of-the-art technologies and architecture, each serve a strategic purpose: as a hub for businesses eyeing GBA’s potential, a one-stop healthcare and wellness services centre, and a professional wealth management hub for GBA residents and regional travellers. Together they form a highly synergetic ecosystem for cross-border businesses and a talent magnet for international corporations.

“K11 ATELIER 11 SKIES is a showcase of how commercial developments can also become environmentally conscious communities, and we are incredibly proud to be part of this scheme that has set new benchmarks for Hong Information & Images: Lead8

The development features one of Asia’s largest PVT (Photovoltaic-Thermal) installations which has the ability to save up to 177,000 kWh of electricity each year. 11 SKIES is also equipped with bespoke IoT sensors for the realtime monitoring and adjustments of indoor air quality, while built-in UVCirradiation devices and fresh air provision can effectively mitigate the risk of airborne contamination and expel internal pathogens.

The biophilic design of 11 SKIES has also created one of Hong Kong’s largest networks of green walls, with external planters helping to total more than 30% of the site area, enhancing the wellness of the building occupants and the entire SKYCITY neighbourhood. The design provides opportunities to connect with nature through public sky gardens, green courtyards and groundlevel living environments.

Flexible Architecture Positioned in the northeast corner of the site, the design of the three office towers seeks to optimise the connectivity to two neighbouring hotels and the AsiaWorld Expo. The new workplace community also benefits from its integration into the wider 11 SKIES destination and transport hub featuring Airport Express and bus connectivity.

Connecting the towers is a central garden courtyard that establishes a community gathering point offering landscaped breakout space for the building’s tenants and views across the South China Sea.

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The K11 ATELIER office buildings are unified with the wider mixed-use destination but also retain their own identity as a workplace community within 11 SKIES. Their façade design not only achieves this goal but has also been designed for future flexibility.

Project Team:

The exterior (Type A) façades of the office towers have a vertical orientation accented by a number of recessed vertical louvres that animate and break up the façade as an architectural feature with integrated lighting. The design is highly adaptable, with feature louvres increasing the future flexibility of the towers to allow tenants the opportunity to plug in additional fresh air intakes depending on their MEP needs, for example, for medical or IT services.

Project Manager: New World Development Company Limited

“There is always a balance between a design that has the most impact and one which we can optimise from a technical performance standpoint. We’re proud to see K11 ATELIER 11 SKIES fulfil our expectation for Hong Kong’s built environment and also the natural environment through a smart and innovative approach,” says Touikan.

Developer: New World Development Company Limited

Operation Management: K11 Concepts Limited Facility Management: K11 Concepts Limited Design Architect & Interior Design: Lead8 Project Architects & Authorised Person: Ronald Lu & Partners Interior Design: Spiral Architectural Design Sustainable Design Consultant: ARUP Civil & Structural Engineer: AECOM Asia Company Limited Building Services Engineer: AECOM Asia Company Limited Landscape Architect: Adrian Norman Limited Main Contractor: Hip Seng Builders Limited

40 AWARDS

41

參展商及品牌

產品及方案

會議小時

聯絡我們

Retail Asia Conference & Expo

8-10 May 2024

Hall 1, HKCEC | 香港會議展覽中心會議廳1

Featuring:

Build4Asia 2024 is the No.1 Trade show for the Building, Electrical Engineering and Security Industries in Hong Kong which covers every facet of the construction industry, from building materials and automation, smart city technologies, property management to total surveillance systems.

Build4Asia 2024是香港領先的建築、電氣工程和防火保安展覽會，帶來一系列建造業嶄新 產品、科技及服務，包括建築材料、樓宇自動化系統、智能家居、安全檢測系統、物業管理等。

OVERVIEW OF 2023 2023 展會一覽

Build4Asia provided us with an unparalleled opportunity to showcase our latest innovations in building, electrical engineering, and security technology. The event was well-organised and provided us with access to key decision-makers in the industry. We're already looking forward to next year's event.

GBA Low Carbon Buildings TOP 100 Award Photobook Launch & Awardees Sharing 大灣區低碳建築TOP ���大獎圖鑑發布暨得獎者分享會

Asian Securitex Conference 亞洲安防會議

RESERVE YOUR BOOTH 立即預訂展位 IFMA Integrate 2023

Eligible Hong Kong exhibitors may apply for the "SME Export Marketing Fund" to save up to 50% exhibiting costs! 合資格的參展商可申請 「中小企業市場推廣基金」 ， 節省高達��%的參展費用！

Build4Asia

ESG Asia Forum ESG亞洲論壇

17/F, China Resources Building, 26 Harbour Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong 中國香港灣仔港灣道26號華潤大廈17樓

+852 3709 4981 exhibit@build4asia.com www.Build4Asia.com

44 AWARDS

WORLD ARCHITECTURE FESTIVAL MAKES A TRIUMPHANT RETURN TO ASIA

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fter a 6-year run in Europe, in the iconic capitals of culture, namely, Berlin, Amsterdam and Lisbon, and having survived the ravages of the global pandemic, this year the world’s largest annual, international, live architectural event, made a successful and welcome return to Asia, held from 29 Nov to 1 Dec at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

WAF is where the world architecture community meets to celebrate, learn, exchange and be inspired. It includes the biggest international architectural awards programme in the world, dedicated to celebrating excellence via live presentations to an audience of high-profile delegates and international juries.

Inside World Festival of Interiors (INSIDE) runs alongside WAF, with its own awards and conference programme.

Over three days, hundreds of shortlisted projects were presented by practices from around the world. At the conclusion of each day the winners of the individual categories were announced, 44 categories in total.

The judges of the Completed Buildings categories reflected on the considered and beautiful articulation of this year’s projects. Overall, they were impressed with the timeless quality, spatial composition and technical resolutions of many of the shortlisted projects. Overall, the judges expressed that many of the winning projects were city-changing with thoughtful responses to historical elements including preservation of found architecture, retrofitting and change of use – all making a significant contribution to their locales.

The ultimate accolades of World Building of the Year, World Interior of the Year, Future Project of the Year and Landscape of the Year were announced on the final day at a grand finale Gala Dinner at Marina Bay Sands, where hundreds of delegates from across the world convened. The four winning projects receiving the judges’ greatest acclaim are featured on the following pages.

Judges also praised the Future Projects for their experimental and holistic approach to tomorrow’s environment. This year’s category winners resonated with the jury for their rethinking of architectural approaches, including design and material, to give new meaning to architecture in the modern world. Projects addressed either urgent sustainability challenges, becoming new ‘pedagogical instruments’ and sensitively embedding into the fabric of existing communities.

A host of Special Prizes, including the International Building Beauty Prize, Best Use of Colour Prize and Small Project of the Year were also announced at the closing event, to celebrate the sixteenth edition of the festival.

WAF and INSIDE will return to Marina Bay Sands, Singapore on6 – 8 November 2024 Information and images: WAF and INSIDE 2023

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Huizhen High School Completed Buildings – School Designers: Approach Design Studio / Zhejiang University of Technology Engineering Design Group Co., Ltd. Ningbo, China

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his project is a bold exploration of campus design. The aim was to create a campus where time can be "wasted" seriously, even in the "efficiencyfirst" education model. The project is located in Jiangbei District, Ningbo City, and is a 30-class residential high school. The increasingly scarce urban space, rapidly growing student population, and high pressure for further education have determined the "efficiency-first" principle of urban campus construction.

While efficiency is certainly important, the designers believe that under heavy pressure, children need more blank spaces where time can be "wasted" and where they can adjust their minds and bodies and discover beauty.

Di Ma, Director at Approach Design Studio / Zhejiang University of Technology Engineering Design Group China commented: “We always try to explore the boundaries of architecture while making something that’s fun. Our focus was not just about designing a school, or working with new forms, spaces, materials and facades, but about designing new school life and bringing the power of nature into the building. The building gives students a space to relax and relieve their stresses between their lessons.”

“As landscape professionals, we segmented the passageways and curved the greenery in a zigzag pattern, enveloping people in a verdant forest no matter where they stand. We created a three-dimensional greening effect, with the space fully enveloped by greenery. Throughout the space, several tree houses of different heights are scattered in various corners of the forest. Students can quickly arrive to this “forest” after class, to a piece of primitive nature where they can temporarily escape from the burden of school. We also try to make some classrooms not to follow the strict norms, by “hanging” them in each corner of the forest in free form, so that the classrooms are no longer considered as neatly arranged “machines” and classes within them can be full of adventures.”

The winner was selected by a super jury of luminaries of the global architecture industry – comprising Sir Peter Cook, Cook Belacevic Haffner; Vicente Guallart, Guallart Architects; Richard Hassell, WOHA and Albert Williamson-Taylor, AKT II.

46 AWARDS

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The Probiotic Tower Future Projects - Experimenta Designer : Design and More International Cairo, Egypt

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rbanism is often seen as a blight upon the earth - a bacterial growth consuming the natural potential of the world. But what if we could change that relationship? What if we could think of a new class of buildings that acts as a positive force? A new type of urbanism more like a probiotic bacteria that promotes the healing of the urban landscape?

“We as architects and urbanists need to see our buildings as Probiotic organisms, aiding the health of the urban landscape. How then should we realise this opportunity in large, existing cities? How might we consider ‘healing’ the urban landscape in those scenarios. As we are aware, the lowest-carbon way to build is simply not to build. The greenest building we can every inhabit is the one that already exists. And there are millions of them.”

“As our starting point we have selected a building type that has become largely obsolete in our cities. One that is substantial in its potential and too important to be removed.”

Water Towers reflect an early generation of infrastructure that took water and elevated it in order to pressurize water for delivery to the surrounding neighborhood. The central proposition is that such infrastructures can be repurposed to positively address climate change as an adaptive system for cities, particularly in the developing world. The water tower is perfectly suited to repurposing as a probiotic urban machine. At the core of the probiotic tower is a large algae bioreactor tank that absorbs CO2 from local sources in the host neighborhood. Literally repurposing the infrastructure of the past, to undo the mistakes of the past and create a carbon-negative building.

The Algae Bioreactor not only absorbs carbon from the neighborhood but also forms a feedstock for a carbon-neutral biofuel for inhabitants. Facade Algae panels mounted to the south facing sides of the building are also used to promote the absorption of CO2 from local atmospheres.The building is expanded by establishing a bamboo plantation on-site and creating a Bamboo Cross Laminated Timber Production facility that grows modular components to build a supportive scaffold around the tower. In doing so we create the space for a range of uses to serve the neighborhood. This includes Reed beds for treating wastewater from the neighbourhood and sequester further carbon in its biomass.

48 AWARDS

19 Waterloo Street Residential (Single dwelling) Designer: SJB Surrey Hills, Australia Image credit : Anson Smart

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edged onto a narrow strip adjacent to the road, judges described this small multi-storey house as “like a wardrobe for the architect himself to live in”. With a footprint of 30 square metres and a Jacques Tati-esque façade of recycled and broken brick, this house playfully engages with the street through arrangement and geometry of openings. Ultimately, it's about sustainability, doing more with less, reusing a site, reusing materials, and better using an existing connected place.

The project is an exercise in limiting footprint but expanding connections. The interior volumes are arranged to borrow outlook from the city. You are at once in the city and part of its fabric, but removed from it - still afforded a quiet oasis.

Using a split section, the stair is the pinwheel around which the house moves.

The dwelling is divided into spaces that are served or in service. Service spaces are short with 2.1m ceilings – storage, kitchen, robe and ensuite, served spaces are grand with 3.6m ceilings – study, living and bedroom.

The interior design aids the moments of expansion and contraction, creating pockets of high-drama and reprieve as you ascend through the home. Access to light is presents moments of joy throughout. In the bathroom, large monstera plants wall the shower enjoying the daily steam and ceiling void and light above.

In the study, a gold leaf coated void refracts morning light down towards the workstation, a heavenly response to an otherwise cavernous room.

Embedded into the project is a discrete ambition to incorporate art and support artists – to reengage artists in the making of buildings, with the intent of embedding specific cultural identity into the built fabric. The front gate is cast bronze by Mika Utzon-Popov, and an all-enveloping landscape by Nicholas Harding titled Eora is able to be viewed from the street.

Landscaping by Dangar Barrin Smith is sprawled across the house as a different type of artistry, helping to lower the urban heat island effect while adding to the network of wild urban gardens. The dwelling is 90% self-sufficient from an electric position, using rooftop PV's and battery storage. From the street the facade is punched with a random set of openings, but once inside, these reveal a highly tuned stack of rooms. Judges felt that “these generated a satisfying alignment and play of light”.

The winner was selected by a super jury of global design experts – comprising Nigel Coates, Nigel Coates Studio; Mark Dytham, Klein Dytham Architects; Ingrid van der Heijden, Civic architects; Friedrich Ludewig, ACME and Anna Xu, Dyson.

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50 AWARDS

Benjakitti Forest Park: Transforming a Brownfield into an Urban Ecological Sanctuary Designers: TURENSCAPE, Arsomsilp Community and Environmental Architect, China Bangkok,Thailand

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he winning landscape project transformed a former tobacco factory into a resilient living ecosystem, which is now the largest public recreational space in downtown Bangkok. The project reduces the destructive force of stormwater, filters contaminated water, and provides much-needed wildlife habitat in a region experiencing monsoon climates with an average yearly precipitation of about 1500mm.

In addition, Benjakitti Forest Park now provides the largest public recreational space for residents of downtown Bangkok and has become a new cultural symbol for the capital. The project, completed at a low cost in a compressed timeframe of just 18 months, offers a replicable modular approach to urban engineering that can transform the lifeless, concrete-paved ground into a resilient living ecosystem that provides a full range of ecosystem services.

The effects of global warming have resulted in increased flood risk due to Bangkok’s low elevation. In addressing the multiple challenges of the site, the project was envisioned as a central park capable of providing holistic ecosystem services to the city, including a demonstration of a nature-based solution for urban flood control, as well as providing badly needed public space for daily recreational activities and other cultural services. Three strategies guided our work to meet these objectives: All existing trees on site were preserved and integrated into the park design.

Existing factory buildings were repurposed to house the sports centre and museum. The demolished concrete materials were recycled for the earthwork foundation and paving.

Cut-and-fill techniques were used to transform the impermeable, concretepaved ground into a spongy and porous landscape of wetlands dotted with islets, which is expected to retain up to 200,000m³ of stormwater from the surrounding area during the monsoon season. This tilled landscape also transformed the otherwise hard clay surface soil into a wet and spongy habitat, allowing a rich native plant community to establish itself with minimal irrigation or maintenance needed during the dry season.

The modulated landform with diverse micro-environments was sown with seeds and planted with tree seedlings, creating a foundation for the subsequent evolution of a semi-natural plant community creating a new, highly dynamic and diverse aesthetic that sharply contrasts with the surrounding urban landscape.

The winner was selected by a super jury of global landscape specialists and academics – Lily Jencks, LilyJencksStudio; Henry Steed, ICN Design International; Professor Rafiq Azam, SHATOTTO architecture for green living and Zhengxu Zhou,Tsinghua University.

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52 CITIES

ALIENESQUE ART CENTRE LANDS AT AVIATION NEW CITY A hub of contemporary creativity within one of the world’s most dynamic regions.

Information and Images: Zaha Hadid Architects ROF Media Photography: Virgile Simon Bertrand, CAT-OPTOGRAM Studio and Seilao Kiong

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he Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Centre is at the heart of Aviation New City, an urbanisation with a built area of 4.78 million square metres, housing 100,000 residents and incorporating new civic, cultural, academic and commercial infrastructure within Zhuhai’s Jinwan district.

Integrating three distinct cultural institutions for the city (a Performing Arts Centre with a

1200-seat Grand Theatre and a 500-retractableseat multifunctional Black Box theatre; an interactive Science Centre; and an Art Museum) each venue within the Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Arts Centre incorporates unique characteristics that create differing visitor experiences, yet all are united by a coherent formal and structural logic that spans 170 meters wide from east to west and 270 meters long from north to south.

54 CITIES

Design Inspired by Nature Arranged symmetrically on a central axis, the two larger and two smaller venues are connected by a central plaza that serves as a shared external foyer to all of the cultural institutions. Glazed walls facing this courtyard enable visitors to determine the individuality and character of each venue. The Grand Theatre and Art Museum are finished in a light palate of materials, while the multifunctional Black Box Theatre and Science Centre are composed in darker materials.

Echoing the chevron patterns of migratory birds flying in formation over southern China, the latticed steel canopies sheltering each venue are configured through repetition, symmetry and scale variation; resulting in a composition of related elements that respond to the different functional requirements of each building. This repetition of the self-supporting and self-stabilising roof modules optimised pre-fabrication, pre-assembly and the use of modular construction.

The distinctive roof structure unites the different venues under a network of reticulated shells that envelop the four wings of the centre. Interconnecting bridges and voids create a multi-layered public plaza at the heart of the centre with views to the interiors as well as to the surrounding promenades with their cafés, restaurants and educational facilities. The design optimizes intuitive navigation with natural light in all public areas to enhance connectivity; creating engaging civic spaces for local residents to enjoy throughout the day and evening.

The Grand Theatre’s interior continues the composition of the centre’s external roof canopy with the location and angle of ceiling panels optimised as sound reflectors. The Grand Theatre’s sound absorbing surfaces are designed to meet the highest acoustic standards required for local, national and international performances.

The Art Museum adapts the chevron geometries of the roof to frame the main atrium which provides natural light to the museum while at the same time creating a continuous vertical surface to display artworks. An internal gallery, storage and administrative spaces are located behind this vertical division.

Merging architecture with exhibition experience, a continuous white ‘ribbon’ of museum’s vertical circulation and exhibition route is its’ defining feature.

The Science Centre’s interior also translates the geometry of the centre’s roof to showcase scientific innovation with interactive exhibits that inspire curiosity and learning. The Science Centre’s lecture hall is designed for the centre’s programme of public demonstrations of scientific experiments and discovery.

Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Centre’s podium defines an island within ZhongXin Lake. Pedestrian ramps and tunnels invite visitors to cross the lake’s surface

to the podium’s central public plaza where footbridges connect through voids to each venue. Glazed façades sheltered by the modular roof canopy provide transparency and welcome the local community onto lakeside boardwalks and plazas beneath the sweeping roof structure. An external amphitheatre on the west side of the centre allows for outdoor performances and activities.

Sustainability Constructed in concrete, the centre consists of five structurally separate buildings, each with its own self-supporting external steel canopy. Supported by only 22 columns and spanning a total of 270m x 170m, these free-formed steel roof canopies are composed of symmetrical geometries to enable their modular, repetitive structures to be fabricated off-site and assembled from only two different column types.

The centre’s landscaping and surrounding lake are designed as integral elements within Zhuhai’s ‘sponge city’ initiative that targets the natural permeation, storage and re-use of at least 70% of the city’s rainwater using aquatic flora and fauna to naturally filter contaminants. Humidity and soil-moisture sensors within the landscaping’s irrigation system control and reduce water consumption.

Located within the subtropical climate of coastal southern China, the doubleinsulated glazing of the building’s envelope is optimized for thermal performance and protected by the latticed roof canopy which incorporates perforated aluminium panels for external solar shading. The perforations within the panels vary in size to allow differing degrees of sunlight within the centre’s interior spaces in accordance to their programming requirements, orientation and solar gain. At night, this roof canopy bathes the centre in soft reflected light.

Energy consumption and indoor air quality monitoring systems with intelligent control will automatically adjust the centre’s interior environments for optimal comfort and energy reduction. Waste heat recovery will be used to meet the centre’s hot water demand with water-saving appliances connected to the centre’s water recycling system.

Designed to meet the highest tiers of China’s Green Building Evaluation Standards, the selection and procurement of the centre’s structural components has prioritized recycled steel, aggregates and other component materials.

The Zhuhai Airport Railway, an extension of the Guangzhou- Zhuhai Intercity Railway, provides direct connections with Zhuhai’s city centre and its airport, while the new Hong Kong-Zhuhai- Macau bridge enables those in Shenzhen and Hong Kong to reach Zhuhai in less than an hour.

GFA below ground: 51,646m2 GFA above ground: 48,432m2 Height: 35m

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Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Centre Location: Zhuhai, China Date: 2017 / 2023 Client: Zhuhai Huajin Development and Construction

56 CITIES

大剧院 Grand Theatre 多功能厅 Multi Functional Hall 科普馆

表演空間 每个单独的场地都有其独特的设计特 色，以提供独特的访客体验

表演艺术中心区域包括：

Science Center 艺术馆 Art Museum

The Performing Art Centre program included:

表演场地：可容纳1200人的大剧院、 可容纳500人的黑匣子剧场，及附属设 施

Performance Venues:

科技馆包含科技館、多功能厅等科普交 流设施

ZONE A: Grand Theatre with 1200 seats

艺术展厅及相关附属设施 有个车位的地下停车场

3

Each individual venue has its own design character for a unique visitor experience.

大剧院 Grand Theatre

ZONE B: Black Box Theatre with 500 seats and ancillary facilities ZONE C: Science center including Science and technology hall, multifunction hall and other science related facilities ZONE D: Art Museum with display area and related ancillary facilities Basement area with car parks

大剧院前厅 Grand Theatre lobby

4

黑匣子剧场前厅 Black Box Theatre Lobby

科学中心 Science Cen

nter

为了营造出丰富有活力的文化中心， 公共区域的视野以及光线以及不同功 能分区的连通性是设计的重点。

interstial spaces of bridge and voids for a vibrant public plazas inwards as well as outwards towards the promenades with commercial, cultural and educational activities.

Vista and daylight in all public areas as well as connectivity between program functions are paramount in the design to create a lively culture center.

壳状屋面 SHELL ROOF

功能体量 PROGRAM VOLUMES

裙楼 PODIUM

BASEMENTS

Performance Venues

黑匣子剧场 Black Box Theatre

艺术博物馆 Art Museum

科学中心 Science Center

艺术博物馆 Art Museum

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