Placemaking strategies in the Tai Kwun revitalisation project, Hong Kong

Abstract

This paper examines the place-making strategy of the Tai Kwun revitalisation project and assesses how it can be reused for public enjoyment through questionnaire feedback. In recent years, the public has gradually discovered that some historical buildings that used to go unnoticed contain the collective memory of the public, and heritage building conservation units are beginning to pay attention to the conservation of architectural heritage, but there have been both failures and successes in the conservation of heritage buildings in Hong Kong. In the Tai Kwun revitalisation project, the project team adopted a number of place-making strategies that have made Tai Kwun more attractive to visit, appreciate and explore, seeking to create a new arts and cultural centre with a contemporary flavour that will become an iconic tourist attraction in Hong Kong. Today, the new Tai Kwun provides a diversity of recreational and viewing spaces for public enjoyment. To evaluate the place-making strategy for Tai Kwun, a data collection exercise was conducted, including a questionnaire survey to obtain feedback from visitors. Overall, the Tai Kwun revitalisation project not only preserves the physical structure, but also creates a new public space for daily enjoyment, adds a new element to the community, and transforms it into a “dynamic community”.