Design Trust, an initiative of the Hong Kong Ambassadors of Design, led the Hong Kong Architectural Legacy Symposium on April 9th 2026 at HSBC Main Building on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the building designed by Lord Norman Foster, reframing the city’s architectural icons as vibrant engines of cultural life. The symposium brought together a distinguished roster of creators and thought leaders to explore how Central’s iconic buildings and spaces animate cultural practice, from photography and design to everyday rituals. Convened and moderated by Lead Curator Marisa Yiu, the symposium celebrated the many contributions that craft the optimistic spirit of Hong Kong, delving into the layered, hidden stories of how cities shape culture, and how the culture of architecture and patronage, in turn, shapes cities.
Marisa Yiu, Co-Founder, Lead Curator and Executive Director of Design Trust, said: “HSBC Main Building, officially opened in April 1986, turned 40 in April 2026. This building is seminal to the journey and architectural heritage narratives of Central District’s innovation and placemaking. Architectural gems like City Hall and Statute Square to the Peak Tower are inspirational, moving and uplift unique narratives and oral histories, stemming from creative forces, hidden stories and architectural details. We hope this legacy symposium with our exhibition can restore the belief in how great architecture, creative space making, and the natural topography of Hong Kong can be a shared public asset to further our inter-generational learning and inspire the community.”
