Abbas categorized Hong Kong’s built space into three types. Merely Local, one of them, was used to describe existing architecture from last generation. The group is usually preserved or rehabilitated for collective memory from the hundred-year colonial history. Despite the wish and vision on conservation, adaptive reuse of merely local historic buildings is controversial due to relative commercial development. Former Marine Police Headquarters in Tsim Sha Tsui (now renamed as 1881 Heritage) is a well-known one where the slope landscape was replaced by nostalgic European style plaza and luxury goods shops. High point location of the headquarters is preserved but without the surrounding banyan clusters which in other words, losing site context.
Besides, I cannot totally agree with Abbas’s Placeless description on international buildings in Hong Kong’s central business district. Despite the modernized facade which seems losing local relations, the story of construction actually includes lots of traditional Chinese feng-shui consideration. For example, red-cross truss system was once introduced for the design of HSBC Building. However, the concept was criticized by the bank’s Chinese directors due to its bloody and “falling” perception. This would be a rare condition if cities like London or New York are the background.
Hui Chun Yin, Edison
UID: 3035713981
This is a well-articulated reflection on Abbas’ critical commentary. You have shown clear consideration of his arguments and provided your own opinions with relevant HK examples, well done.