1. The project proposes a residential building in Wan Chai, Hong Kong that integrates reading and living. 2. It aims to create a community nurtured by an environment surrounded by books, making reading accessible through various shared spaces like a library, book market, and publishing studio. 3. The building design includes housing units of different sizes, as well as book-related program spaces, to support readers, writers, publishers, and attract visitors to the area.

1. Tung Hoi Peter CHAN
PORTFOLIO
Application for MArch Programme 2024 at The Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL
2020-2023
Selected Works

2. 01 BOOK-O-LIVING
Community housing
Fall 2021
P03-05
04 SUNSET LINE; RONCHAMP ANALYSIS
Analysis and transformation
Fall 2020
P12-14
03 REJUVENATION
Village interpretation centre
Spring 2021
P09-11
02 CLIMBING OFFICE
Governmental department office
Spring 2022
P06-08
05 BOLO BAO PAVILION
Research on bamboo Kagome weaving
Summer 2021
P15
CONTENTS
Architects, painters, sculptors are all craftsmen in the original sense of the word.
-Walter Gropius
06 MOVING BAMBOO @ Venice Biennale 2023
Venice Biennale Hong Kong Pavilion
Spring - Summer 2023
P16-17
07 XRL MALL DESIGN
Practice @ AGC Design Ltd
Fall 2023 - now
P18
For the classification of content into the four requested categories, Projects 01 to 04 are categorized under ACADEMIC STUDY, with a focus on TECHNICAL STUDIES
especially on pages 4, 7, and 10. PERSONAL PROJECT is evident in Project 04 and 05, expressing my interest in exploring architecture through craft. PRACTICAL
EXPERIENCE is reflected in Project 06 and 07, with Project 06 being the output of my full-time role as a research assistant.
PRACTICE
ACADEMIC
PROJECTS
RESEARCH
WORK

3. Individual contribution
Site analysis
Massing and planar design development
Conceptual design development
Detail design development
Household design development
Final sectional drawing
1:200 final model
Interior views rendering
Structural drawing
BOOK-O-LIVING (Book and co-living)
Community housing / Building integration / Group project of two / Fall 2021
01Having a rich culture and a long history, Wan Chai is populated by middle-class and well-
educated urban-dwellers. Renowned and locally established bookshops and publishers
have opened, but more, closed over the past few decades. This residential project aims to
integrate reading and literature into living, creating a neighbourhood that will be nurtured in an
environment surrounded by books. Reading becomes easily accessible and obtainable, and
more opportunities are provided for the residents and the people in the community to immerse
in books. The constant exploration throughout the myriads of reading spaces in form of
balconies, corridors or larger public spaces including library and small theatre, or commercial
writing andd publishing worksapce, create different reading environment and experience and
eventually leads to conversation and harmony.
BOOK-O-LIVING
Site context and massing
This district, Wan Chai, was known for reading
from 1960s to 1990s with large publishers,
libraries, individual bookstores and bookstores
above ground level. However, traditional small
bookstores have been declining under urban
development and digitalization of books since
2000s.1,2,3
Yet, a trend of reading culture revival
have been observed in recent years. Even
under the increasing economic and political
pressure, there is a rise of new individual
bookstores with better reading environment.
This drove the complementary programme of
the residential project. The building massing
was developed to bring a rich and complex
reading experience to the residents and
neighbourhood while responding to the urban
relationship between the old residential blocks
built in 1970s and 1980s and the newer
commercial blocks after 1990s and 2000s. The
zigzag form seemingly divides the massing to
reduce the enormousness among neighbouring
buildings.
ACO Bookstore (2004-now),
an individual bookstore on 14/F
supporting the art village in Foo
Tak Building that accommodates
local art and culture.
https://hivelife.com/indie-bookstores-hong-kong/
Evergreen bookshop (1981-2008),
a small, independent, and one of
the earliest upstairs bookstores
and publisher in Hong Kong.
https://makafai.blogspot.com/2006/09/blog-post.html
1 Chen Dejin. "Recalling Wan Chai's Bookstore" 2009.
HKTKWW. https://bit.ly/3QtZutn.
2 "Several Bookstores near Fife Street in the 1970s" 2012, Park
Literary Magazine. http://bit.ly/40se4pL.
3 "Endangered 'Upstairs Bookstore Culture' in Hong Kong"
2019. Readmoo News. https://bit.ly/47tXfxe.
Chan Sheung Kee Book Store
( 1 9 5 0 s - n o w ) , f a m o u s f o r
publishing recipes, Cantonese
literature and a lot of Wuxiain in
1970s-80s.
https://microhk.wordpress.com/2013/01/07/%E8%
8E%8A%E5%A3%AB%E6%95%A6%E9%81%93-
johnston-road/
Cosmos Books (1976-now), One
of the biggest local booksellers
and publishers, of especially
popular read and traditional
literature in the market. It holds
exhibitions from time to time.
https://www.instagram.com/cosmosbooks_hk/
03

4. Vertical circulations including stairs
and ramps
Household units, bigger units for large
families on higher levels, smaller units
on lower levels.
Spaces with book-related programme
e.g. library, exhibition space, book-fair
market and publishing studio
Circulation core - lifts and fire
escape stairs
Writers, editors,
publishers, booksellers
Wan Chai local
Reading enthusiasts,
Students and teachers
Residents
Visitors
Visitors
Positions of the building
Programme organization
Target users
Connection between
new and old regions
Urban role
Proposing "book" as an
identity of Wan Chai, more
than simply "mixed identity"
Social
The first fusion between
library and large community
housing in one single building
Architectural typology
bookshops and publishers have opened, but more, closed
over the past few decades. Such urban fabric that some
may call the “Oasis of Literature in Hong Kong” leads us to
the question of why literature? And more importantly why
not? In such a technological advanced modern society, does
reading still have its place?
2. create a community that connects through reading;
3. welcome the visitors to read and spend their fragmented
time in the building.
interested in, rather than algorithmically recommended by
advanced digital systems.The constant exploration
throughout the myriads of reading spaces in form of
balconies, corridors or larger public spaces create different
reading environment and experience and eventually leads
to conversation and harmony.
including stairs
gger units for large
evels, smaller units
elated programme
n space, book-fair
ng studio
fts and fire
Writers, editors,
publishers, booksellers
Wan Chai local
Reading enthusiasts,
Students and teachers
Residents
Visitors
Visitors
g
on
Target users
Connection between
new and old regions
Urban role
Proposing "book" as an
identity of Wan Chai, more
than simply "mixed identity"
Social
en
nity
lding
ogy
bookshops and publishers have opened, but more, closed
over the past few decades. Such urban fabric that some
may call the “Oasis of Literature in Hong Kong” leads us to
the question of why literature? And more importantly why
not? In such a technological advanced modern society, does
reading still have its place?
connects through reading;
ead and spend their fragmented
interested in, rather than algorithmically recommended by
advanced digital systems.The constant exploration
throughout the myriads of reading spaces in form of
balconies, corridors or larger public spaces create different
reading environment and experience and eventually leads
to conversation and harmony.
Vertical circulations including stairs
and ramps
Household units, bigger units for large
families on higher levels, smaller units
on lower levels.
Spaces with book-related programme
e.g. library, exhibition space, book-fair
market and publishing studio
Circulation core - lifts and fire
escape stairs
Writers, editors,
publishers, booksellers
Wan Chai local
Reading enthusiasts,
Students and teachers
Residents
Visitors
Visitors
Positions of the building
Programme organization
Target users
Connection between
new and old regions
Urban role
Proposing "book" as an
identity of Wan Chai, more
than simply "mixed identity"
Social
The first fusion between
library and large community
housing in one single building
Architectural typology
bookshops and publishers have opened, but more, closed
over the past few decades. Such urban fabric that some
may call the “Oasis of Literature in Hong Kong” leads us to
the question of why literature? And more importantly why
not? In such a technological advanced modern society, does
reading still have its place?
2. create a community that connects through reading;
3. welcome the visitors to read and spend their fragmented
time in the building.
interested in, rather than algorithmically recommended by
advanced digital systems.The constant exploration
throughout the myriads of reading spaces in form of
balconies, corridors or larger public spaces create different
reading environment and experience and eventually leads
to conversation and harmony.
Vertical circulations including stairs
and ramps
Household units, bigger units for large
families on higher levels, smaller units
on lower levels.
Spaces with book-related programme
e.g. library, exhibition space, book-fair
market and publishing studio
Circulation core - lifts and fire
escape stairs
Writers, editors,
publishers, booksellers
Wan Chai local
Reading enthusiasts,
Students and teachers
Residents
Visitors
Visitors
Positions of the building
Programme organization
Target users
Connection between
new and old regions
Urban role
Proposing "book" as an
identity of Wan Chai, more
than simply "mixed identity"
Social
The first fusion between
library and large community
housing in one single building
Architectural typology
bookshops and publishers have opened, but more, closed
over the past few decades. Such urban fabric that some
may call the “Oasis of Literature in Hong Kong” leads us to
the question of why literature? And more importantly why
not? In such a technological advanced modern society, does
reading still have its place?
2. create a community that connects through reading;
3. welcome the visitors to read and spend their fragmented
time in the building.
interested in, rather than algorithmically recommended by
advanced digital systems.The constant exploration
throughout the myriads of reading spaces in form of
balconies, corridors or larger public spaces create different
reading environment and experience and eventually leads
to conversation and harmony.
BOOK-O-LIVING
Integration of Concept,
Structure, Envelope, Detail
Vertical circulations including stairs
and ramps
Household units, bigger units for large
families on higher levels, smaller units
on lower levels.
Spaces with book-related programme
e.g. library, exhibition space, book-fair
market and publishing studio
Circulation core - lifts and fire
escape stairs
Writers, editors,
publishers, booksellers
Wan Chai local
Reading enthusiasts,
Students and teachers
Residents
Visitors
Visitors
Positions of the building
Programme organization
Target users
Connection between
new and old regions
Urban role
Proposing "book" as an
identity of Wan Chai, more
than simply "mixed identity"
Social
The first fusion between
library and large community
housing in one single building
Architectural typology
As a location with a rich culture and a long history,Wan
Chai is very popular amongst middle-class and well-educat-
ed urban-dwellers. Renowned and locally established
bookshops and publishers have opened, but more, closed
over the past few decades. Such urban fabric that some
may call the “Oasis of Literature in Hong Kong” leads us to
the question of why literature? And more importantly why
not? In such a technological advanced modern society, does
reading still have its place?
A space redefining/ re-iterating reading lifestyle
1. incorporate reading into daily life;
2. create a community that connects through reading;
3. welcome the visitors to read and spend their fragmented
time in the building.
environment surrounded by books. Reading becomes easily
accessible and obtainable, and more opportunities are
provided for the residents to find out what they are
interested in, rather than algorithmically recommended by
advanced digital systems.The constant exploration
throughout the myriads of reading spaces in form of
balconies, corridors or larger public spaces create different
reading environment and experience and eventually leads
to conversation and harmony.
Vertical circulations including stairs
and ramps
Household units, bigger units for large
families on higher levels, smaller units
on lower levels.
Spaces with book-related programme
e.g. library, exhibition space, book-fair
market and publishing studio
Circulation core - lifts and fire
escape stairs
Writers, editors,
publishers, booksellers
Wan Chai local
Reading enthusiasts,
Students and teachers
Residents
Visitors
Visitors
Design Intentions
Section 2. Concept and Project Intentions
Concept: BOOKS + LIVING
Positions of the building
Programme organization
Target users
Connection between
new and old regions
Urban role
Proposing "book" as an
identity of Wan Chai, more
than simply "mixed identity"
Social
The first fusion between
library and large community
housing in one single building
Architectural typology
As a location with a rich culture and a long history,Wan
Chai is very popular amongst middle-class and well-educat-
ed urban-dwellers. Renowned and locally established
bookshops and publishers have opened, but more, closed
over the past few decades. Such urban fabric that some
may call the “Oasis of Literature in Hong Kong” leads us to
the question of why literature? And more importantly why
not? In such a technological advanced modern society, does
reading still have its place?
A space redefining/ re-iterating reading lifestyle
1. incorporate reading into daily life;
2. create a community that connects through reading;
3. welcome the visitors to read and spend their fragmented
time in the building.
Our project aims to integrate reading and literature into
living, creating a community that will be nurtured in an
environment surrounded by books. Reading becomes easily
accessible and obtainable, and more opportunities are
provided for the residents to find out what they are
interested in, rather than algorithmically recommended by
advanced digital systems.The constant exploration
throughout the myriads of reading spaces in form of
balconies, corridors or larger public spaces create different
reading environment and experience and eventually leads
to conversation and harmony.
Vertical circulations including stairs
and ramps
Household units, bigger units for large
families on higher levels, smaller units
on lower levels.
Spaces with book-related programme
e.g. library, exhibition space, book-fair
market and publishing studio
Circulation core - lifts and fire
escape stairs
Writers, editors,
publishers, booksellers
Wan Chai local
Reading enthusiasts,
Students and teachers
Residents
Visitors
Visitors
Design Intentions
Section 2. Concept and Project Intentions
Concept: BOOKS + LIVING
Positions of the building
Programme organization
Target users
Connection between
new and old regions
Urban role
Proposing "book" as an
identity of Wan Chai, more
than simply "mixed identity"
Social
The first fusion between
library and large community
housing in one single building
Architectural typology
As a location with a rich culture and a long history,Wan
Chai is very popular amongst middle-class and well-educat-
ed urban-dwellers. Renowned and locally established
bookshops and publishers have opened, but more, closed
over the past few decades. Such urban fabric that some
may call the “Oasis of Literature in Hong Kong” leads us to
the question of why literature? And more importantly why
not? In such a technological advanced modern society, does
reading still have its place?
A space redefining/ re-iterating reading lifestyle
1. incorporate reading into daily life;
2. create a community that connects through reading;
3. welcome the visitors to read and spend their fragmented
time in the building.
Our project aims to integrate reading and literature into
living, creating a community that will be nurtured in an
environment surrounded by books. Reading becomes easily
accessible and obtainable, and more opportunities are
provided for the residents to find out what they are
interested in, rather than algorithmically recommended by
advanced digital systems.The constant exploration
throughout the myriads of reading spaces in form of
balconies, corridors or larger public spaces create different
reading environment and experience and eventually leads
to conversation and harmony.
Vertical circulations including stairs
and ramps
Household units, bigger units for large
families on higher levels, smaller units
on lower levels.
Spaces with book-related programme
e.g. library, exhibition space, book-fair
market and publishing studio
Circulation core - lifts and fire
escape stairs
Writers, editors,
publishers, booksellers
Wan Chai local
Reading enthusiasts,
Students and teachers
Residents
Visitors
Visitors
Design Intentions
Section 2. Concept and Project Intentions
Concept: BOOKS + LIVING
Positions of the building
Programme organization
Target users
Connection between
new and old regions
Urban role
Proposing "book" as an
identity of Wan Chai, more
than simply "mixed identity"
Social
The first fusion between
library and large community
housing in one single building
Architectural typology
As a location with a rich culture and a long history,Wan
Chai is very popular amongst middle-class and well-educat-
ed urban-dwellers. Renowned and locally established
bookshops and publishers have opened, but more, closed
over the past few decades. Such urban fabric that some
may call the “Oasis of Literature in Hong Kong” leads us to
the question of why literature? And more importantly why
not? In such a technological advanced modern society, does
reading still have its place?
A space redefining/ re-iterating reading lifestyle
1. incorporate reading into daily life;
2. create a community that connects through reading;
3. welcome the visitors to read and spend their fragmented
time in the building.
Our project aims to integrate reading and literature into
living, creating a community that will be nurtured in an
environment surrounded by books. Reading becomes easily
accessible and obtainable, and more opportunities are
provided for the residents to find out what they are
interested in, rather than algorithmically recommended by
advanced digital systems.The constant exploration
throughout the myriads of reading spaces in form of
balconies, corridors or larger public spaces create different
reading environment and experience and eventually leads
to conversation and harmony.
Vertical circulations including stairs
and ramps
Household units, bigger units for large
families on higher levels, smaller units
on lower levels.
Spaces with book-related programme
e.g. library, exhibition space, book-fair
market and publishing studio
Circulation core - lifts and fire
escape stairs
Writers, editors,
publishers, booksellers
Wan Chai local
Reading enthusiasts,
Students and teachers
Residents
Visitors
Visitors
Design Intentions
Section 2. Concept and Project Intentions
Concept: BOOKS + LIVING
Positions of the building
Programme organization
Target users
Connection between
new and old regions
Urban role
Proposing "book" as an
identity of Wan Chai, more
than simply "mixed identity"
Social
The first fusion between
library and large community
housing in one single building
Architectural typology
As a location with a rich culture and a long history,Wan
Chai is very popular amongst middle-class and well-educat-
ed urban-dwellers. Renowned and locally established
bookshops and publishers have opened, but more, closed
over the past few decades. Such urban fabric that some
may call the “Oasis of Literature in Hong Kong” leads us to
the question of why literature? And more importantly why
not? In such a technological advanced modern society, does
reading still have its place?
A space redefining/ re-iterating reading lifestyle
1. incorporate reading into daily life;
2. create a community that connects through reading;
3. welcome the visitors to read and spend their fragmented
time in the building.
Our project aims to integrate reading and literature into
living, creating a community that will be nurtured in an
environment surrounded by books. Reading becomes easily
accessible and obtainable, and more opportunities are
provided for the residents to find out what they are
interested in, rather than algorithmically recommended by
advanced digital systems.The constant exploration
throughout the myriads of reading spaces in form of
balconies, corridors or larger public spaces create different
reading environment and experience and eventually leads
to conversation and harmony.
Visitors can participate in book-related
activities in the market, theatre, gallery,
library and workspaces when they
gradually walk up the building by stairs and
ramps. while residents can also enjoy the
reading and communal spaces on the daily
commuting route.
The SHS steel columns and beams
structure with various sizes structurally
r e v e a l t h e s p a t i a l h i e r a r c h y a n d
horizontality among residential and reading
spaces.
The building has a mainly concrete-plaster
exterior that matches the conventional
housing buildings in Wan Chai while
decorated with timber bookshelves.
Sectional
Isometric
900mm SHS steel transfer beam
1.7m span tapered steel beam for balconies
2.5m span tapered steel beam for balconies
Rhythm created by the 600mm SHS,
although it is not structurally necessary
900mm SHS steel column
600mm Cast-in-situ concrete pile
500mm thick concrete pile cap
Column grid plan
5m
5m
Sectional
Isometric
900mm SHS steel transfer beam
1.7m span tapered steel beam for balconies
2.5m span tapered steel beam for balconies
Rhythm created by the 600mm SHS,
although it is not structurally necessary
900mm SHS steel column
600mm Cast-in-situ concrete pile
500mm thick concrete pile cap
Column grid plan
5m
5m
1:25 Sectional
isometric
Apartment without balcony
Event terrace
Envelope Interface with roof (below)
1
10
11
12
13
14 15
2 6 8 9
3 5 7
4
16
1. 40 mm mortar coating,
polished finish.
2. 20 mm polyethylene insulation
3. 30 mm expanded polystyrene
insulation
4. reinforced concrete half slab
5. steel decking
6. 300 mm SHS beam
7. 40 mm waterproofed rock
wool thermal insulation
8. suspended plaster board with
white matte finish
9. false ceiling suspender
10. 300 mm*150 mm I beam
11. concrete panel
12. gypsum board
13. double-glazed window
14. glass foam thermal insulation
with aluminum foil finish
15. steel decking
16. waterproof membrane
concrete slab
3 mm anodized aluminum sheet anchored
vapor barrier and air barrier
header
galvanized metal trim
15 mm gypsum board with white matte finish
shim
fill perimeter frame with low-rise polyurethane foam
2 mm window panel
air barrier
joint sealant & backrod
sill pan flashing
wall panel c-channel
header
sealant & backrod
exterior sheath
rigid insulation with high temp. underlayment
120 mm stud wall with insulation
1:25 Section
1: 5 Detail section
Window to wall
1 2 6 8 9
3 5 7
4
11
12
13
17
18 19 20 21
1. 40 mm mortar coating,
polished finish.
2. 20 mm polyethylene insulation
3. 30 mm expanded polystyrene
insulation
4. reinforced concrete half slab
5. steel decking
6. 300 mm SHS beam
7. 40 mm waterproofed rock
wool thermal insulation
8. suspended plaster board with
white matte finish
9. false ceiling suspender
11. concrete panel
12. gypsum board
13. double-glazed window
17. glass panel ballustrade
19. pedestral
20. 550 mm raised concrete slab
21. drainage channel
methyls filled with rock wool thermal insulation waterproofed
UPE steel profile
metallic support
laminated wood plate for screed
1:25 Section
1: 5 Detail section
Wall to floor
Apartment without balcony
1:25 Sectional
isometric
Envelope Interface with roof (above)
Apartment with balcony
Apartment with balcony
1:25 Sectional
isometric
Apartment with balcony
Typical housing envelope details
1 2 6 8 9
3 5 7
4
11
12
13
17
14 15 16
18 19 20 21
1. 40 mm mortar coating,
polished finish.
2. 20 mm polyethylene insulation
3. 30 mm expanded polystyrene
insulation
4. reinforced concrete half slab
5. steel decking
6. 300 mm SHS beam
7. 40 mm waterproofed rock
wool thermal insulation
8. suspended plaster board with
white matte finish
9. false ceiling suspender
11. concrete panel
12. gypsum board
13. double-glazed window
14. glass foam thermal insulation
with aluminum foil finish
15. steel decking
16. waterproof membrane
17. glass panel ballustrade
19. pedestral
20. 550 mm raised concrete slab
21. drainage channel
U-shaped profile to anchor the trim plate.
3mm anodized aluminum folded trim plate
2-ply water membrane
40 mm thick extruded polystyrene thermal insulation
rectangular profile with thermal insulation
vapor barrier
L-shaped profile
40 mm rock wool thermal insulating panel waterproofed
3 mm anodized aluminum folded trim plate
3 mm anodized aluminum sheet anchored
1:25 Section
1: 5 Detail section
Cantilevered overhang
04

5. BOOK-O-LIVING
Occupied spaces
In the residential areas, there are communal
balconies every floor shared by neighbours,
trying to recreate the more intimate and
communicative residential atmosphere in the
district in the past. For example, the neighbour
could directly see and talk with each other
in 1960s, and it is common for neighbours
to chat at Pai Dong (a type of shops in Wan
Chai with decades's history). Book-O-Living
provides standard flats in 3 sizes accomodating
singletons, small and large families.
On the other hand, the multistorey height library,
gallery, exhibition spaces, etc. with changes in
plan and promenade running across them aim
to build a lively modern reading spaces.
Upper: More intimate connections neighbourhood in 1960s
https://www.facebook.com/CantoneseMuseum/photos/a.653176308025918/1983648678312001
/?locale=zh_HK
Lower: Pai Dong where shopowners chat with neighbours
https://www.andthen.hk/go/63299_%E7%81%A3%E4%BB%94%E6%8E%92%E6%AA%94%E
5%A4%AA%E5%8E%9F%E8%A1%97hea%E7%9A%84%E7%A9%BA%E9%96%93/
Personal contribution:
Household design development
Rendering interior views individually
Producing final model individually
05

6. 02CLIMBING OFFICE
Governmental department office / Building and site integration / Individual work / Spring 2022
Climbing Office is a 7-storey-high government office building for Leisure and Cultural Services
Department. This approximately 100m x 20m x 20m diagonal block rising from the Sai Ying
Pun Waterfront Promenade aimed to re-connect the Sai Ying Pun inland urban landscape
and waterfront area from various perspectives from the site landscape to the interior. The office
encourages walking and climbing stairs, which matches the sports theme development on the
waterfront promenade. The outdoor green space, indoor gym and climbing wall facade further
provide facilities for the public. The stepped office resembles the street in Sai Ying Pun. More
visual connections to the urban grid are gained when we gradually climb up the building.
CLIMBING OFFICE
Disconnection and reconnection of seafront area
Sai Ying Pun has a rigid urban grid on the steep slope. However this urban grid has been
disconnected from Victoria Harbour by the highways on the reclaimed land. The office design
therefore responds to this urban context. In the early design process, a trapezium site and piers
were drawn as an extension of the urban grid, while the building is set diagonal. When people
climb up the building they can see both the seaview and urban landscape.
Upper: Sai Ying Pun in 1950s. The strong urban grid can be
clearly seen extending towards the harbour.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/953085778212155/posts/1608781539309239/
Lower: Queen's Road, Sai Ying Pun in 1980s. The public
and residents had a intimate relationship with the Harbour
in daily life. Direct contact with the Harbour in terms of
walking around to buy groceries or taking public transport or
the smell of seawater. However, this relationship no longer
exists after reclamation since 1990s.
https://oceandeeop3000.blogspot.com/2014/04/blog-post_24.html
PAST PRESENT FUTURE
06

7. CLIMBING OFFICE
Site, Programme, Health
As part of the waterfront promenade with public sports facilities, and planned
by government to become an integrated exercise green space, the site is
developed in this project into a walkable green landscape with sports courts,
seating and vegetation area and water sports facilities. Eastern Street is
extended with proposed zebra crossings and a rising pier to connect to the site.
People can enter the building from the (covered) timber boardwalk outdoor or
underground carpark.
On the other hand, the green space in this dense urban area for not only
the residents but also the office workers is highly beneficial mental health,4,5
especially in Hong Kong, one of the most stressful cities. The theme of health
is further extended into the building design.
4 Barton JL., Rogerson M. "The importance of greenspace for mental health." BJPsych International
2017. doi: 10.1192/s2056474000002051
5 Kondo MC., Fluehr JM., McKeon T, Branas CC. "Urban Green Space and Its Impact on Human Health."
Int J Environ Res Public Health 2018: 445. doi: 10.3390/ijerph15030445
CLIMBING OFFICE
Elevations and Details
6
4
5
3
2
1
9
8
7
17
15
16
14
13
18
19
20
1 40mm Triple-glazed glass panel with low E coating
Mastic
2
10mm thick EPDM setting blocks
3
200 x 50 mm Aluminium transom with cross laminated timber
4
Aluminium flashing
5
13 600*600*20 plaster floor finished panel
Pedestal
14
15 Adhesive rubber skirting
Foam rubber perimeter buffer
16
50mm Polyethylene and expanded polystyrene insulation
17
Reinforced concrete half slab
18
Steel deck
19
20 300 SHS beam
10mm thick aluminium frame
21
12mm render carrier board
22
20mm reinforced fibre plaster with reinforced mesh inside
23
8mm plaster coat
24
Air membrane
7
Steel C Channel
6
50mm Waterproofed rock wool rigid insulation
8
Seamless STO plaster cladding system
9 Vapour barrier
10
Rubber stopper
11 Insulation block connecting to transom
12
10
23
22
21
24
12
11
On the East façade, thick plaster bands
strengthen the diagonal gesture and reveal
the stairs, demonstrating the idea of climbing.
The plaster band created with seamless STO
coating hides the structrue and envelope
details inside. Timber mullions and transoms as
secondary elements reveal the overall grid.
Western core is more solid to block highway
pollution and heat. It is composed of plaster
climbing wall panels to provide an unusual
sports facility with minimal apertures
symbolizing caves in crag.
Future sports promenade proposed by HK government
https://www.legco.gov.hk/yr2022/chinese/panels/dev/papers/dev20220222cb1-74-6-c.pdf
Public doing exercise on the existing lawn on the promenade
07

8. CLIMBING OFFICE
Extension of urban axis to interior
The connection to Sai Ying Pun gradually builds up while
climbing up the stepped office, gym and roof. On the
stepped office space, we can see the seaview behind.
Stairs are placed on two sides of the steps floor deck, re-
sembling the SYP sloped streetscape with a pedestrian
walkway on two sides.
The connection to Sai Ying Pun increases on higher lev-
els.The upper office spaces are open to both the Har-
bour and the Sai Ying Pun through the roof terraces. The
middle lane of the roof deck is lowered, creating another
streetscape on the roof, which can act as an urban ob-
servatory.
08

9. 03REJUVENATION
Village interpretation centre / Construction, design and computation / Individual work / Spring 2021
The Pokfulam Village Interpretation Centre demonstrates the duality and integration
between organic and inorganic forms with consideration of the site landscape and existing
buildings. The Interpretation Centre consists of 2 main parts: an exhibition space with
an irregular shape, a triangular structure roof and inorganic blocks for other rooms. The
exhibition space with regular solar panels arranged inorganically represents the inorganic
arrangement of vernacular housing in Pokfulam Village, as well as the introduction of new
green technologies to a traditional village. The panels would orient themselves during the
day to follow the sunpath and maximize energy harvesting efficiency and shading. This slow
daily and seasonal variation in shadow patterns are captured to provide diffuse daylight with
similar shading while creating different spatial experiences for the visitors at different time.
9
REJUVENATION
Model construction
1:50 sectional model made of bass wood and
balsa wood demonstrates the tectonics and
enclosure of the triangulated exhibition space,
classroom with regular beam and post, and the
structure transition at the corridor.
1:200 site model consists of a plastic 3D-printed
dome with the solar panel, and a steel grid
structure of other rooms made with walnut
wood.
09

10. 10
REJUVENATION
Site inspiration and
Massing development
The Pokfulam Village is a rare remaining
village heritage with over 200 years of history,
witnessing the changes of Hong Kong in 2
centuries. It is listed in World Heritage 2014 by
UNESCO, but it is facing the decline of village
culture and lack of infrastructure under the high-
speed urban development.7
Therefore a village
interpretation centre is proposed to villages'
daily use and to record, exhibit, and promote
village's culture and history to Hong Kong.
In architectural and urban perspective,
the Pokfulam Village consists of inorganic
vernacular, traditional beams and columns
housing boxes arranged organically following
the organic topography. Therefore, the massing
of the viillage centre was developed to be
composed of an organic dome-shaped main
exhibition and activity space, surrounded by
secondary spaces like classrooms, library and
auditorium.
With computational skills learned from a canopy
design modelling exercise, regular solar panels
were designed to shade the main exhibition
space not only as a green building design but
also reflecting the organic arrangement of
inorganic housing of the village.
7 "Living Pokfulam Village." Inmediahk.net 2015. https://www.
inmediahk.net/%E6%96%87%E8%97%9D/%E6%B4%BB%E8
%91%97%E7%9A%84%E8%96%84%E6%89%B6%E6%9E%9
7%E6%9D%91
The squatter settlementt
exhibits "architecture
without architect."
Modernization process
in the village is slow
and it lacks some
infrastructure to meet
the village development
and population needs.
REJUVENATION
Plan and Structure
The building is aligned with the grid by the
existing building, with the entry aligned towards
an important dairy farm. Situated on the slope
towards the South, the solar panels can more
efficiently harvest energy and some solar
panels symbolising the trees were also placed
on the landscape. The building has a steel
regular post and beam structure in a 3.2m grid
for normal rooms, and a triangular structure for
the exhibition space.
3.2m 3.2m 3.2m 3.2m 3.2m 3.2m 3.2m 3.2m
6.4m 6.4m 2.2m 1m
5.4m
3.2m
3.2m
6.4m
6.4m
6.4m
6.4m
6.4m
1m
1
A
2
B
3
C
4
D
5
E
6
F
7
G
8
H
9 10
J
11 12 13 14 15
K
L
M
N
O
P
Q
B
A
C
N
North East
North West
A B C
0 4 8 12 16 20m
Structural Framing Plan 1:200
Windbreak
Site plan 1:1000
0 20 40 60 80 100m
Natural ventilation
Unfolded section ABC 1:500
Sunlight and shadow variations
Section 1:500
POK FU LAM RESERVOIR ROAD
Footbridge
N
u
ll
a
h
PO
K
FU
LA
M
RO
A
D
P
o
k
fu
la
m
V
il
la
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e
1 Atrium
Auditorium
2
Mechanical room
3
Powder room
4
Corridor
5
Classroom A
6
Classroom B
7
8 Library
Cloakroom
9
Washrooms
Accessible washroom
Storage
Office
Meeting room
Exhibition space
Car park
Loading area
Terrace
Outdoor solar trackers
Outdoor activity space
10
11
12
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19
20
E
N
T
R
A
N
C
E
VILLAGE
POK FU LAM ROAD
VILLAGE
N
0 2 4 6 8 10m
General Arrangement Plan
1
2
4
3
9
5
15
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19
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10
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14
6
7
8
-0.167m
-0.167m
±0.000m
±0.000m
±0.000m 1.000m
-0.167m
145m
145m
146m
146m
144m
144m
143m
143m
142m
0.833m
1.000m
H
L
E1 E1
E2
E2
01 01
https://skypost.ulifestyle.com.hk/article/2690504
/%E5%82%B3%E6%89%BF%E4%BF%9D%E
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6%9C%89%E9%81%BA%E8%BF%B9
10

11. REJUVENATION
Computation, Structure, Envelope
The roof of the exhibition space is designed with the help
of computational design scripting using Grasshopper®
within the Rhinoceros® software. The parametric design
process tested for structural integrity and controlled the
component size within 3m. Components, such as the nodes,
steel beams and glass panel frames, are customized for
prefabrication and simple assembly.
11 12 15
-0.167m
±0.000m
6.400m
4.000m
3.200m
2.175m
9
10
11
13
14
30
23
24
31
18
19
16
37
38
47
49
44
45
17
6
4
5
3
2
1
7
1 Ø 600mm aluminium ring capping on junction
100mm aluminium capping on frame
2
Mastic
3
28mm hexagonal double glazed glass panel
4
100mm aluminium glass panel frame
5
150×150×10 SHS beam
6
SLS flashing receiver
7
SLS flashing
8
9 Aluminium window frame
10 300×300×10 SHS beam
11 Top hung double glazed window panel
12
Aluminium window stay
13
200×200×10 SHS slanted beam
14 Automated window vent opener
15 Steel covered insulated wall panel with foam core
100×60×2 SLS C beam
16
200×200×10 SHS slanted beam
17
Waterproof membrane
18
Aluminium panel
19
Tapered insulation board
20
21 Vapour control layer
22 Metal deck
Transom
23
28mm double glazed glass panel
24
Metal louver frame
25
100mm wide aluminium louver
Double glazed sliding window
26
Aluminium sliding window track
27
Aluminium door
28
Aluminium sliding door track
29
28mm double glazed sliding door
30
Aluminium Sliding door sill
31
32
Aluminium folding door track
33
Aluminium Louver door frame
34
35 Aluminium folding door roller rail
Roof of dome
Roof of corridor
Roof of classroom
Interior enclosure
36 600×600×20mm steel clad particle board
37 stringer
38 Pedestal
39 25mm plywood panel
Insulation board
40
Waterproof membrane
41
Concrete
42
43
Skirting
44
Foam rubber perimeter buffer
45
300×300×10 SHS column
46
600×600×50mm steel column base plate
Bolt
47
200×200×10 SHS column
48
400×400×50mm steel column base plate
49
50 SLS flashing
51 Steel drainage grill
Ø 50mm perforated PVC pipe
52
Gravel
53
Steel drainage
54
Floor and foundation
0 0.4 0.8 1.2 1.6 2m
0 100 200 300 400 500mm
Detail section 01 1:20
Component detail section 1:5
15
33
34
24
35
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39
8
22
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16
28
27
46
48
42
41
43
11

12. 04SUNSET LINE; RONCHAMP ANALYSIS
Observatory, and promenade architecture / Analysis and transformation, design and craft / Individual work / Fall 2020
This project consists of two parts: the design of an observatory and the analysis of Ronchamp,
to analyse and demonstrate the essence of the promenade and aperture in architecture.
Sunset Line is an observatory design on Garden Hill where nearby residents always go to watch
the sunset. It brings people towards the key opening and set out the urban sunset view.
Analysis of Ronchamp uses analytical drawings and models to capture and demonstrate the
essence of relationships between different surfaces experienced in the promenade journey in
and out of the architecture.
SUNSET LINE
Site Inspiration
Garden Hill is famous for being a convenient
natural observatory to watch sunset and urban
landscape in the Hong Kong's dense urban
district for decades.
Therefore, an observatory specifies for urban
landscape and sunset was designed. It is a
turning staircase connecting hiking paths on
two levels with a landing where an aperture was
elaborated considering the shape and paints
to highlight the sunset for visitors. The designs
of the path, apertures and the structure were
tested in the process.
https://www.discoverhongkong.com/tc/interactive-map/garden-hill.html
12

13. The openings gradually shrink when people walk toward the long, curved, seamless aperture
emphasized by dark paint and top light. It focuses on the skyline and highlights the sunset
moment when the sun aligns with the city skyline. A smaller window looking towards ICC is
added to slightly interrupt the regular form and orient the key opening towards the sunset
direction in Hong Kong.
SUNSET LINE
Spatial experience
13
RONCHAMP ANALYSIS
Relationships between surfaces
on the promenade
This is an analysis and transformation exercise
continued from the observatory design to
hone analysis sense and methods to present
the findings. Ronchamp as a renowned
building was first analysed by drawings. The
three A1 hand-drawings demonstrates three
relationships between the surfaces formed
by a careful arrangement of organic form and
inorganic elements that can be discovered after
walking through the whole architecture as a
promenade6
.
1. The bright and dark contrast on two sides
of the thick South entry wall is created by the
slanted apertures.
2. Similarity of indoor and outdoor chapels
on the two sides of the East wall with organic
concrete blocks and inorganic timber furniture.
3. Similarity of overall form and decorative
timber block on East and South facades which
can be seen after leaving the building.
6 Pauly Danièle. Le Corbusier : the chapel at Ronchamp. Paris:
Fondation Le Corbusier; Basel; Boston: Birkhäuser 2008.
13

14. RONCHAMP ANALYSIS
Transformative model
To demonstrate the analysis findings,
the 3 relationships were transformed
into a simple design and modelling
language that can be easily observed.
The model preserves the organic
form façade, slanted apertures, and
arrangement of furnitures, while
taking out other elements. In the
model, all façades and interior are
slightly different and the model can be
understood in different orientations and
even upside-down to create spatial
varieties. To provide various interior
views, the 6 components with trenches
were designed that can be taken out
individually.
The transformative model demonstrates
the essence of the promenade and
aperture, resembling Ronchamp in
terms of the apertures, the organic
form and inorganic timber blocks.
Mills were used to drilling the primary
trenches. High-density foamboard
instead of wood or concrete was chosen
to make the model for ease to drill with
mills and polish with sandpaper. The
overall curved form and the slanted
shape in apertures were crafted and
polished by knife and mini-files.
14

15. 05BOLO BAO PAVILION
Research on bamboo Kagome weaving / Traditional craft and computation / Group work / Summer 2021
Bolo Bao Pavilion is approximately 5m x 5m on plan, and approximately 3m tall. It has a shell
structural form with a large opening as the entry, and two tubular aperture open to the sky. It
demonstrated the Kagome pattern of hexagons in between small triangles, and heptagons
where double curvatures are created. Detailed analysis and further research were further
conducted after this prototype.
Bolo Bao Pavilion is part of a research on scaling-up bamboo Kagome weaving. The traditional
triaxial bamboo weaving principles and patterns are digitalized with the help of engineering
algorithm. We can design architectural objects which have manifold forms compared to
traditional baskets. Structural behaviours affected by the material properties and gravity are
simulated, experimented by Bolo Bao Pavilion, and analysed.
Traditional weaving craft in Asian regions are
declining due to industrialization of product
manufacturing and the use of cheaper synthetic
materials.8
We studied one of the weaving
technique called Kagome which created self-
bracing objects by tightly interlaced bamboo
strips.
Kagome woven objects have a hexagon cells.
Positive or negative Gaussian curvature can be
induced by pentagon or heptagon.9
When tightly
interlaced, the structure becomes self-bracing
without the use of fasteners at the joints.
We have developed a computational design
method10
based on existing research and tested
with Bolo Bao Pavilion aiming to promote and
allow designers to design and fabricate bamboo
woven structures, not only to promote green
construction material, but also to translate
and transfer the intangible weaving culture
knowledge into explicit knowledge and system
over generations.
BOLO BAO PAVILION
Transition of traditional bamboo
weaving into architectural artefacts
8 Szeto, N.Y., 1996. Of Hearts & Hands: Hong Kong’s
Traditional Trades and Crafts, first ed. Urban Council of Hong
Kong (Ed.), Hong Kong.
9 Ayres, P., Martin, A.G., Zwierzycki, M., 2018. Beyond the
Basket Case: A Principled Approach to the Modelling of Kagome
Weave Patterns for the Fabrication of Interlaced Lattice
Structures Using Straight Strips, 72–93.
10 Shinohara, H., Chan, T.H.P., 2023. A computation design
method for architectural artifacts adapted from traditional
Kagome bamboo basketry techniques. Frontier of Architectural
Research. (Manuscript accepted, to be published)
Last bamboo weaving craftsman in Hong Kong
https://www.scmp.com/news/people-culture/article/3211105/dying-art-hong-kong-
bamboo-master-93-steams-ahead-keep-alive-intricate-decades-old-craft-drives
Kagome basket weaving in Japan in 1945
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_bamboo_weaving#/media/
File:Basket_Weaver_in_Japan_(1915_by_Elstner_Hilton).jpg
Common Kagome basket
Individual contribution
Development of computational design method in research
Leading and designing group construction process
15

16. 06MOVING BAMBOO @ Venice Biennale of Architecture 2023
Hong Kong Pavilion / Outdoor canopies installation / Group work / Spring - Fall 2023
but also more importantly the traditional weaving craft which can potentially be transformed
into construction techniques.To ensure the preservation of this craft, the project employed the
services of young designers from Hong Kong. In a three-day workshop, where 19 architecture
students from different schools came together to learn and hone their skills in triaxial weaving
as a knowledge transfer over generations.
To facilitate the preservation of this craft, we
invited 19 architecture students from different
schools to construct the bamboo components.
This not only allowed the students to contribute
to the project but also gave them the opportunity
to gain a deeper appreciation for this craft.
Each bamboo canopy consists of 14 flat
components connected to a central column.
The flat components measure within 1.8 x 1.8m
while the columns have a diameter within 1.15m
and stand within 1.6m tall. These components
can be conveniently stored in crates for
transportation. The canopies can be easily
assembled and installed onto the crate on site.
To improve the durability for the 6-month
exhibition, the bamboo strips were fumigated
and coated against insects, moisture and UV
light. However, the fumigated bamboo are
too brittle to be naturally bent to connect the
columns and flat components, therefore, we
heated them to create curved components for
connections.
The research on bamboo weaving craft is continued in this project which aims to transform the
fading craft in Hong Kong through the creation of three bamboo canopy structures in response
to the Venice Biennale of Architecture 2023 title "The Laboratory of the Future" and Hong
Kong's exhibition them transformative Hong Kong. We would like to experiment and promote
not only sustainable construction material - bamboo as a transformation to green architecture,
MOVING BAMBOO
Design and Pre-fabrication
Individual contribution
Designing and producing drawings
Leading and planning group construction process
Material purchase and quality assurance
On-site coordination with workers and engineers
Transferring weaving knowledge and skills to student helpers
16

17. Credit: Structual simulation by SATO Yuhei
Tightening of joints by tying nylon strips
Stronger joints with layers of reinorcement
Credit: Structual simulation by SATO Yuhei
Bowl shape created in the mock-up Bowl shape can be created after modification
MOVING BAMBOO
Structure, Assembly, Details
MOVING BAMBOO
Structure, Assembly, Details
In the mock-up, we adopted a bowl-shape
geometry created by controlling the grid sizes
to increase the structural rigidity and reduce the
bending moment acting on the columns.
However, during the on-site assembly the bowl
shape could not be maintained and the joints
connecting horizontal parts and columns were
too loose.The loading bearing capacity of the
original design was not high enough, especially
the wind load on the site was much larger than
what was anticipated. Structural simulation
showed that this shape was not sustainable and
required modifications.
With the advice from the collaborating
engineering team, we reduced the span by
2 rows of grids on all sides, while added
more bamboo strips to reinforce the curved
connection. The reinforcing strips were further
tied with nylon strips (commonly used in Hong
Kong bamboo scaffolding). It can be seen as a
combination of high-tech studies and low-tech
construction skills. More temporary supports
were also added to help create the bowl shape
during tightening of joints.
The bowl-shape could not be maintained during assembly
The joints were loose
17

18. 07XRL MALL DESIGN
Shopping mall interior design / Conceptual design and 3D modelling / Practice @ AGC Design Ltd / Fall 2023 - now
The initial design idea is to provide an engaging and immersive lightweight walking experience.
Rotating dichromic triangular panels are arranged on the ceiling, shedding light on atriums,
axes at the same time implicitly guiding circulation. Reflecting panels on other surfaces also act
as feathers to further decorate the spaces. Curving vertical fins spandrels define and highlight
the voids while providing a sense of lightness.
Express Railway Link (XRL) shopping mall is a luxury retail mall targeting visitors arriving from
China. The design aims to create a high-end shopping experience and is anticipated to stay
modern in 10 years. We are collaborating with multi design companies including Zaha Hadid
Architects. We are responsible for the interior design and it is currently in the conceptual and
schematic design stage.
Individual contribution
Schematic and conceptual design
3D parametric modelling
Material research
Producing drawings and renderings for presentation
18