Sheung Wan, Hong Kong, 1991.

This project restored the century-old marketplace in Sheung Wan, the small district of tightly packed streets and bustling shops between Central and Kennedy Town, on Hong Kong Island. Sandwiched between Des Vouex Road and Connaught Road, the market is one of the finest examples of turn-of-the-century British colonial architecture in Hong Kong. It lay deserted and in disarray for many years and like many old buildings in Hong Kong—especially those so close to Victoria Harbour’s shore—was slated for demolition. After a little architectural activism and some lobbying, Hong Kong officials decided to restore the market to its former glory.
We were hired to convert Western Market into a shopping arcade and food court. Ever conscious of the reputation of Hongkongers as demanding and eager shoppers, we strived to create a space with all the luxuries of a modern day galleria while preserving both its historic exterior and many of the interior’s pleasant architectural details.
Not only did the Market become a popular place of commerce for the local community, it has become a famous Hong Kong tourist attraction, attracting visitors from around the world.