From the past to the present, the city of Hong Kong has changed in many ways. Through some historical events, the space of Hong Kong has experienced changes in time, speed, and no clear direction. The transformation of space has led to the disappearance of space. Firstly, the disappearance of space can stimulate cultural and political emotions. During the colonial period, Hong Kong people utilized architecture or other means to represent a sense of place, and the sense of place corresponded to the desire of Hong Kong people for a unique identity. Therefore, when some old buildings disappear, it can stir up people’s memories of the past and trigger the community to preserve them. The conservation of old buildings not only enhances people’s understanding of architecture but also allows for a realistic view of Hong Kong as a city. According to the ways of looking at the city mentioned in the article, a city that retains its historical context can be considered an authentic city. Secondly, disappearing spaces help people to define urban space. For example, Hong Kong’s urban space is a narrative space. Comparing the changes in urban space between the past and the present, more high-rise buildings have replaced the otherwise old houses. The prosperous development reflects the historical event of the peaceful conversation between China and Britain that allowed the successful return of the Hong Kong colony. Therefore, the disappearance of space is not only a space of past colonial culture for Hong Kong but also a way of defining urban space.
Chen Yuxin 3036099526
The efforts of conservation in Hong Kong as explained in Abbas’ text is cliched and glosses over the complexity of the city’s unique colonial history. I appreciate your view towards the importance of conservation, but some parts of your response require a more nuanced explanation, here are some questions to ponder upon: What do you mean by narrative space? Do conservation efforts really successfully mediate between the history of British and Chinese rule over Hong Kong (the example of the Flagstaff House in the reading is an interesting example)? How does one define or describe urban space in Hong Kong (or can it be defined)?