Choi Hung Estate is one of the early public housing estates in Hong Kong. Its painted exterior walls reflect the “rainbow” theme and have made the place popular on social media, with the basketball court on the roof of the parking lot becoming a popular spot for many visitors to hit the streets. The names of the buildings and roads in the estate also contain elements of color. For its unique design, Choi Hung Estate received a Silver Medal at the 1965 Hong Kong Institute of Architects Annual Awards, in 1965.
Starting with Choi Hung Estate as a gateway, this video delves into the intricate dynamics of neighborhood and community vibrancy within the backdrop of public housing estates. By shedding light on the oppressive, crowded, and seemingly outdated living conditions, the objective is to showcase the resilient human spirit, particularly among the younger generation, who manage to infuse vitality into their lives despite these challenges. In essence, it serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of neighborhoods, akin to a radiant rainbow capable of injecting vibrancy into an otherwise monotonous existence, and painting life with an array of captivating colors.
In Hong Kong, the Housing Authority is crucial in providing public rental housing (PRH) to low-income families who cannot afford private accommodations. The origins of public housing estates in Hong Kong can be traced back to the devastating fire in Shek Kip Mei in December 1953. The Hong Kong government swiftly constructed simple and practical resettlement blocks at affordable rents to provide shelter for the affected individuals. This marked the first significant batch of public housing in the city.
Driven by the high property market and population density, public housing gradually emerged as a distinctive architectural feature in Hong Kong. This characteristic is often depicted in movies set in Hong Kong or similar densely populated cities, such as “Made in Hong Kong” and “Rigor Mortis.” Primarily designated for lower-income groups, public housing serves as a vital solution to the housing challenges faced by these communities.
Public housing units are often densely packed to maximize the efficient use of limited space, resembling beehive-like structures. Each unit offers limited living space, contributing to the overall cramped environment. Factors such as the uniformity of units, low floor heights, exposed plumbing, ventilation ducts, and barred windows further intensify the oppressive nature of these living conditions. Currently, public housing in Hong Kong is in high demand due to a large number of low-income families struggling to afford regular rent. Additionally, the prioritization of elderly individuals has resulted in a significant proportion of public housing tenants being elderly people living alone, potentially contributing to the prevailing somber atmosphere within these housing estates.
By the 1980s, the concept of public housing had evolved beyond providing basic shelter. The focus shifted towards creating comprehensive neighborhoods with a range of public facilities. These shared amenities fostered stronger bonds among neighbors and expanded the role of public housing beyond mere accommodation for low-income individuals. Gradually, people started to perceive these houses not solely as temporary residences but developed a strong sense of belonging within these communities.
The houses in Choi Hung Estate are “Slab blocks” varying in height. Notable buildings include Chi Mei House, Tan Fung House, Luk Ching House, Pak Suet House, Tsui King House, Hung Ngok House, Pik Hoi House, Kam Wan House, Kam Pik House, Kam Wah House, and Kam Hon House. With a total of eleven buildings, the estate also features a parking lot, five schools, stores selling food and daily necessities on the ground floors of some of the lower blocks, and a post office. Internal roads seamlessly connect the buildings to the main streets in the vicinity, enhancing accessibility and connectivity.
The film artfully employs a contrast between stillness and movement, slow and fast, to convey its thematic message. In the film’s first half, the camera captures the vastness of the houses, juxtaposed with the sight of elderly individuals hobbling and walking alone, evoking a sense of solitude. The presence of flying birds further accentuates the feeling of loneliness within these scenes. In the film’s latter half, the camera follows individuals in motion, portraying a sense of energy and vibrancy. The film concludes with a montage featuring high school students singing in the underpasses and the vibrant rainbow graffiti adorning the exterior of the elementary school. This juxtaposition aims to symbolize the spirit and dynamism of the new generation growing up in the vibrant community of Choi Hung Estate.
Zhu Jiarui 3035638791