The forgotten one : the absent recognition and appreciation of postwar tong lau/composite building in Hong Kong

Abstract

In 2009, the Antiquities and Advisory Board disclose the 1,444 historic grading list to the public. After 15 years the government draw little concern to post-war vernacular architecture in Hong Kong. As such, post-war Tong Lau are barely recognized. This dissertation examines the government valuation system of post-war Tong Lau and evaluates its potential for conservation. By tracing Tong Lau’s history in Hong Kong; from evolution in form, evolution in ordinance legislation, building materials, to styles that identify and distinguish the social-historic and architectural uniqueness of Tong Lau. A comprehensive analysis of Tong Lau from other building typology, boundary between the generations is not commonly understood, especially in post-war research. Through applying a conservation management plan approach on Tung Lo Complex, it is discovered that historic value of the site associated to district development, and architectural value of modernist and adaptive design are found in these post-war composite buildings and are not without value merely because of their short living age. Furthermore, a review on 1,444 list and building appraisal are analyzed to provide evidence for the lack of recognition and consideration from the government. A public survey, interviews from social workers and architect discovered the social network, residents’ stories, light-manufacturing industry development and the transpacific immigration ties in the larger historical past of Hong Kong. These are demonstrated using the concepts of historic and social value to recognize the significance of this type of composite buildings as one of a type in post-war vernacular architecture. All in all, improvements for conserving these buildings are suggested, including policy and assessment method that rejuvenates government recognition on post-war vernacular architecture. Moreover, this dissertation introduces overseas conservation methods to encourage the conservation of composite buildings.