SIU KAI FONG

Siu Kai Fong is a project that aims to revitalize community spaces, promoting social interaction and fostering neighborhood connections. Through innovative design concepts, the project seeks to explore the potential of public spaces, integrate community cohesion into daily life, and bridge the gap between history and the present. By combining modern elements with traditional community furniture, Siu Kai Fong provides a delightful shared environment for residents.

The project is situated in the northernmost tip of Hong Kong Island, China, and encompasses an area of approximately 140sqm. The North Point Ferry Pier, which is shaded by a viaduct crossing above, is a rare and popular spot for activities, particularly among the elderly. However, the government’s management of the area has resulted in the cleaning and disposal of chairs brought by residents to the pier, which are used for communal purposes. In response, the Siu Kai Fong project has endeavored to transform the old community space and create a livable and sustainable community center through re-planning and designing.

What sets this project apart is its departure from traditional urban planning and design practices. Siu Kai Fong emphasizes sustainability, prioritizing environmental friendliness and resource conservation. Additionally, the project’s design emphasizes the communal and diverse nature of the community. Rather than simply incorporating a few pieces of old furniture or relying on retro gestures for nostalgia, Siu Kai Fong integrates history into the present through the use of modern materials and processes. Alongside the chairs are QR codes containing stories about the history behind the chairs from the community. These narratives were recorded by professionals and presented on site, alongside the furniture. The project team worked closely with local residents, taking their opinions and takes into account to ensure that the project’s design and decisions aligned with their actual requirements. Community residents were involved in the entire planning and decision-making process, with their voices being fully respected and represented, resulting in a more cohesive community and a sense of belonging.

Rather than traditional spatial design approaches, Siu Kai Fong is a space designed to reflect how local residents use the dock, enhancing the space, optimizing furniture, and using the installation as an opportunity to legally place chairs that would otherwise be “illegal” for everyone’s use; they simply remain where they feel comfortable and engage in their daily activities. By excavating emotional memories, caring for daily life, and enhancing public spaces, the designers break down the invisible “barriers” between different generations and communities, fostering a spontaneous, relaxed, and happy community-building environment for local residents.

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