Hong Kong – Design competition for open space at Choi Hung Road Playground concludes (with photos)

     The Design Competition for Redevelopment of Open Space at Choi Hung Road Playground, co-organised by the Energizing Kowloon East Office (EKEO) and the Architectural Services Department, concluded successfully with the award presentation ceremony held today (August 5).
      
     The competition aimed to gather creative design concepts and ideas for the redevelopment of the open space at Choi Hung Road Playground, so as to enhance the attractiveness and inclusiveness of the open space, promote diversified development, and inject new vitality into San Po Kong.
      
     The competition comprised the professional group and the student group, and 36 and 13 entries were received respectively. The first prize entry of the professional group, “Field and Hill”, blends elements of Chinese cultural heritage into a poetic landscape design, and incorporates inclusive design to meet the various needs of visitors. The first prize entry of the student group, “Ride Along the Living Wall”, injects vibrancy and energy into the open space with an outstanding theme.
      
     Speaking at the ceremony, the Director of Architectural Services, Mr Edward Tse, said that the Government strives to build quality recreational and leisure spaces for public enjoyment. The overall design standard of the entries is very encouraging. All winning entries have innovative design concepts and match the characteristics of the Choi Hung Road Playground. Apart from gathering high-quality design concept proposals for the Choi Hung Road Playground Open Space, this competition provided a platform for designers, especially the younger generation, to showcase their talents, participate in government projects and contribute to society.
      
     The Deputy Head of the EKEO, Ms Lilian Cheung, said that the EKEO has been advocating improvement of public open space as well as local landscape and environment through quality urban design and place making, so as to tie in with the transformation of Kowloon East into the second core business district. The community engagement workshop held during the competition enabled participants to interact with stakeholders, including people who live or work in San Po Kong, and to create designs that reflect the unique history and culture of the district, while meeting the aspirations and needs of the community.
      
     The list of the winners and winning entries are available on the competition webpage (chrpdc.com).