Abstract
Emerging in mid-19th century Hong Kong, Tong Lau represents a unique architectural heritage blending Chinese traditions with colonial influences, characterised by ground-floor shops and upper-floor residences. Despite their historical significance, many Tong Lau face demolition due to intensive urbanisation. This research examines how Tai Hang District, a historic neighbourhood in Hong Kong, demonstrates an alternative approach to Tong Lau preservation through “urban collage.” Adopting field surveys, this study reveals how traditional buildings integrate with contemporary uses, creating a dynamic landscape where old and new coexist. The research documents how bottom-up initiatives, particularly through creative business adaptations and community engagement, have enabled Tong Lau preservation whilst fostering neighbourhood vitality. This transformation manifests across physical adaptations, evolving business landscapes, community space creation, and cultural-digital interactions. The findings suggest that such organic, collage-like approaches offer viable alternatives for heritage preservation, demonstrating how historic urban fabric can be protected whilst remaining responsive to contemporary needs.
Author Information
Izzy Yi Jian, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
Jiemei Luo, Harbin Institute of Technology, China
Wenxin Zeng, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR
Wanchun Ye, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong SAR
Paper Information
Conference: KAMC2024
Stream: Architecture
This paper is part of the KAMC2024 Conference Proceedings (View)
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To cite this article:
Jian I., Luo J., Zeng W., & Ye W. (2024) Lifestyle-Oriented Urban Collage, the Future of Hong Kong “Tong Lau”? A Case Study of Tai Hang District ISSN: 2436-0503 – The Kyoto Conference on Arts, Media & Culture 2024: Official Conference Proceedings (pp. 97-110) https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2436-0503.2024.10
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.22492/issn.2436-0503.2024.10
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