Historical Architectures in the University of Hong Kong

Abstract

Compelled by rapid modernization, demolition-based urban redevelopment has been the prevalent means to facilitate economic growth, both historically and in contemporary cities. Today, nevertheless, a growing awareness for the depletion of historic buildings as consequence has come to the fore, especially in the cities of rapidly developing Global East. Both for policy-makers and in popular spheres here, historic buildings as material artifacts that physically manifest the socio-economic and cultural developments and achievements that shape the city and society are becoming increasingly recognized as important and safeguarded as valuable. As a historical institution of higher education, established against the backdrop of the civic university movement of the late 19th century embodied by the use of red bricks, the University of Hong Kong is both a historic site of cultural significance as well as crucial locale for the research and impact of contemporary conservation. This presentation will highlight the buildings of historical significance located in the University of Hong Kong’s campus, as well as the university more broadly as an importance place of education and research on the value of historical architecture as cultural heritage.