Abbas discusses the transition of the city of Hong Kong, the disappearance of its architectural history and the attempts of preserving history. Through constant restructuring, Hong Kong becomes unrecognizable when looking back at its past. The article mentions how market erodes place, and with the city’s economic transition, every piece of Hong Kong’s history is of imminent destruction, to make way for newer, more profitable spaces. Though, this fast-paced transition makes Hong Kong difficult in constructing an identity as local culture is devalued for economic success. As a city, there are attempts to preserve old architecture, a form of post-colonial awareness. However, there seems to lack proper meaning behind these preservations other than for aesthetics. An example of conflict between historical barbarisms and present day aesthetics is the Flagstaff house – a preserved British military establishment. Serving as a modern day reminder of Chinese history, Hong Kong may benefit from preserving its history. Moving forward, there lies a question of how Hong Kong can prosper economically, whilst accommodating its history and landscape through limited space.
Name: Michael Man Ho Leung
UID: 3035858808