Hong Kong
Aedas has unveiled their new project for the renovation of a historic shopping center in Hong Kong for Hang Lung Project Management Limited, bringing back the glory and glamour of the arcade, which they managed not only to fit out in modern architectural language but also a re-positioning of the development as the “Pearl of the Orient.”
This project was short-listed for a 2021 International Architecture Award from The Chicago Athenaeum and The European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies.
Victoria Peak is of great significance to the history of Hong Kong and its local citizens. Standing on the summit of Victoria Peak since 1992, Peak Galleria welcomes millions of travelers each year who come for the spectacular view of the team.
It becomes an icon representing the Victoria Peak Spirit, keeping continuous progress in this ever-changing city.
The refurbishment is not just creating an icon, but also making it an inseparable part of urban life, a leisure destination for the citizens, a playful memory for children, and an image for tourists.
Undergone years of redesign and construction, Peak Galleria re-opened with a modern image of a rising bright gemstone sitting on the peak.
Three key strategies have been applied for the rejuvenation of the arcade.
Firstly, to create an eye-catching entrance that resonates with the city’s lively spirit and symbolic image of “Pearl of the Orient.”
The design draws inspiration from the “glowing gem,” triangular glass panels are applied to realize the curtain wall’s diamond-cut pattern, sparkling to create an “eye of the peak” to capture the panoramic view.
Bright and glittering in the sun, it reflects the surrounding natural landscapes and changes of the sky from different angles, stimulating an intuitive interaction between architecture, nature, and people passing by.
Moreover, to improve the circulatory and visual experience of interior space by re-organizing retail layout & circulation flow.
The main atrium is strategically widened in comfort and proper proportion to enhance spatially.
The arcade is re-arranged into a singular loop to improve wayfinding for visitors and increase commercial value.
Furthermore, to promote interaction with nature and add value to outdoor terraces by creating a new alfresco dining area with a different view, and improve design and accessibility to all viewing platforms.
Collaborated with local artists on the design of the children’s playground on 2/F terrace, inspiring culture and art space are created to enhance engagement and liveliness.
To realize the 3D structure of the gemstone, a CNC machine method is adopted to produce the star-joints in an accurate and extraordinary touch of finish, which is a pioneer for the construction industry in HK.
The components of the structure are prefabricated to ensure accuracy during composition while reducing a lot of transportation costs and construction time on site.
Project: Peak Galleria
Architects: Aedas
Client: Hang Lung Project Management Limited
Contractor: Hien Lee Engineering Co., Ltd
Photographers: Kris Provoost
