The West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA) recently announced that VPANG architects Ltd + JET Architecture Inc + Lisa Cheung, have been appointed to design the Arts Pavilion (the Pavilion) in the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD), after achieving first prize in the single stage international design competition.
Those behind the winning entry will work with the WKCDA to design and deliver an exhibition and event space for artists, designers and organisations to stage independent small-scale exhibitions and events in the Park at WKCD. Planned for completion in 2015, the Pavilion will located in the Park on the waterfront with spectacular views overlooking Victoria Harbour, creating the opportunity to add a connection between the new building and the open landscaped area for larger scale outdoor exhibitions and events.
The winning pavilion is designed to offer a respite from hectic city life and impressed the judges with a smart and simple approach which allows the Pavilion to blend into its surroundings. Mirrored external walls camouflage the architecture, reflecting the surrounding expanses of greenery and immersing the building within its Park setting.
To further this experience, the Pavilion’s main exhibition space is elevated, allowing it to float above the foliage, creating the opportunity for artwork to be appreciated against a backdrop of the Hong Kong Island. The building is designed to be surrounded by natural light, away from noise. Inside, gallery spaces are created by polished concrete floors and white walls – a flexible backdrop for multidisciplinary art exhibitions and performances.
Announcing the results of the Arts Pavilion Design Competition today, Co-chairman of the Jury Panel and Executive Director of M+, Dr. Lars Nittve said: “The way the first prize winning design fitted into the landscape and frames the views of Hong Kong, creating an outdoor space, which easily flows into a well-proportioned space, are merits of the design. It also allows for certain design flexibility and consideration, essential for a small-scale exhibition space like this.” Mr Michael Lynch, Chief Executive Officer, added: “I am delighted that the winning design team is formed by three Hong Kong-born, young and energetic architects, and will look forward to seeing them make a significant contribution to the development of the WKCD site.”