Revisiting Choi Hung Estate: Looking Back for the Future
How may public housing redevelopment models strengthen a community’s identity and put forward a more contextually appropriate form of transformation? The project explores the discursive and architectural significance of Choi Hung Estate in terms of its unique position in weaving the urban and community fabric of Hong Kong. Through retrospective archival research and intergenerational community engagement, we aim to foster a forward-looking reflection on the design thinking of publicness in modernist heritage, its societal roles, and its relevance to our future. The case of Choi Hung Estate also provides an opportunity to develop a referential blueprint for other high density development in Asia region built around the same period of time.
How may public housing redevelopment models strengthen a community’s identity and put forward a more contextually appropriate form of transformation? The project explores the discursive and architectural significance of Choi Hung Estate in terms of its unique position in weaving the urban and community fabric of Hong Kong. Through retrospective archival research and intergenerational community engagement, we aim to foster a forward-looking reflection on the design thinking of publicness in modernist heritage, its societal roles, and its relevance to our future. The case of Choi Hung Estate also provides an opportunity to develop a referential blueprint for other high density development in Asia region built around the same period of time.
This project spikes public’s interest in how models of public housing redevelopment can enhance a community’s identity and emotional ties, while facilitating a more organic and contextually sensitive transformation that transforms boundaries into opportunities.
- 2025
- Grantee: Don Hong
Don is a registered architect (ARB UK), a cultural entrepreneur, and the winner of the DFA Hong Kong Young Design Talent Award 2023. He is currently sponsored to exchange in London, enriching his understanding of heritage and design. His research focuses on community design in social housing, exploring historical ties between the UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong. He is actively initiating discussions to preserve the existing Choi Hung Estate. Don believes that local architecture serves as a vessel in preserving a collective memory and identity. He co-founded "Kongcept," a platform that seamlessly integrates local culture online and offline. Don aims to promote cultural tourism by unveiling the rich heritage of local architecture in our city.
- Organisation: Kongcept
Kongcept was founded by three post-90s individuals, dedicated to creating an innovative platform that integrates cultural education and community engagement, preserving local elements while embracing new elements. “Kongcept is a concept” — we aim to inspire Hong Kongers to rediscover the overlooked cultural imprints and values in everyday life. Our diverse team brings together architects, curators, cultural researchers, business innovators, and community participants from various fields. By collaborating with creators and organisations across different sectors, we serve as a cultural hub, fostering a sustainable cultural lifestyle and nurturing Hong Kong’s unique cultural values.