The Vale
The Vale is a municipal building in Kowloon City, Hong Kong. Municipal buildings are of mixed use and typically include a market, sports hall, library and hawker center. However, these activities often operate in isolation. The Vale re-imagines the relationship between these programs, and re-defines what a municipal building can be.
The idea is to regenerate the site's valley condition by tilting the market tower in section. Metaphorically, the sports hall is a bridge connecting the market with Lok Fu Mountain. A green roof extends the landscape and forms a passageway for trail-walkers. This tower stands tall amidst low-rise buildings, taking full advantage of Kowloon City
views. Designing the tower on stilts frees the entire grounds for a lively public space. Most importantly, the design re-uses an existing two-storey car park structure and transforms it into an exciting public garden. Amidst increasing urbanisation in Hong Kong, quality public space is rare. This garden is one the community would treasure.
Date: Spring 2019
Program: Municipal Building (Market, Sports Hall, Hawker Center, Library)
Location: Kowloon City, Hong Kong
Tutor: Sebastian Law
U6 Studio: The Chinese University of Hong Kong
