Tuen Mun, Hong Kong, 1986. HKIA Medal

This project is a series of large (by Hong Kong standards)private homes on a hillside site on Black’s Link off Repulse Bay Road on Hong Kong Island. This part of the Island is less “urban” than the north side, site of Hong Kong’s world-famous skyline, which constitute the districts of Sheung Wan, Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, North Point and Quarry Bay, which together essentially make up Hong Kong’s “downtown.” As there is little green space on Hong Kong Island, because so much of the Island is built up, we felt it important to be as delicate as possible regarding the immediate natural environment. We conceived a design that touches its site—a green hill—as little as possible. This design attempts to create a “tree house” idea by not cutting into the slope of the existing hill, but instead converts the slope into a landscaped garden for the enjoyment of the residents. Each house is supported on four extended caissons. These horizontal pillars extend outward from the slope and act as the foundations for each home. The three lower units are accessible by lift. The integrity of the hillside is preserved.

The individual units are multilevel. Large floor-to-ceiling windows are placed on their view-side, taking advantage of the stunning and beautiful vistas of Repulse Bay, accentuating the feeling that residents are living in a tree house.

Bayview at Black’s Link has proven to be one of Hong Kong’s most unique and sought after upscale residential developments. For our innovative and unique approach regarding this project, the Hong Kong Institute of Architects awarded us a Merit Award, which is awarded for those projects that have made a significant contribution to Hong Kong’s built environment.