ULI x HKU: Re-imagining the Building Code

The world is rapidly changing, yet building codes are slow in adapting. How could we build better in Hong Kong if the building regulations could be changed?

The idea for this collaborative studio idea emerged in Fall 2021, and in Fall 2022 ULI members supported HKU’s Master of Architecture Studio – a 24 students design studio that critically reviewed building codes and envisioned alternatives of change. We explored how building regulations could be adjusted to allow for more resilient and innovative high rise typology, referencing best practices from the region. Please find the details of the studio agenda here.

Professors in charge:

Fai Au, Associate Professor of Practice, University of Hong Kong Department of Architecture

Ulrich Kirchhoff Associate Professor of Practice, University of Hong Kong Department of Architecture

Snapshots from our Fall 2022 Studio

To share our findings with the rest of the ULI membership, starting in June 2023, we started a series of events examining the HK building code from four perspectives: 1. Environment; 2. Social; 3. Health and 4. Technology.

This series is brought to you by ULI HK and the University of Hong Kong Department of Architecture, together with support from project partners Benoy, Colliers, LWK & Partners, Skidmore, Owings and Merrill (SOM), Swire Properties and IXO.

Workshop #1: Environment and the Code – 29 June 2023

We explored how regulations could be adjusted to create a more resilient and innovative high-rise typology which would ultimately result in buildings that are healthier, more vibrant and less carbon intensive, referencing best practices from the region. Key recommended changes in regulations can be found here.

Speakers:

Patrick Ho, Deputy Head, Sustainable Development, Swire Properties

Ulrich Kirchhoff Associate Professor of Practice, University of Hong Kong Department of Architecture

Andrew Lau, Director, ESG Advisory – Asia Valuation & Advisory Services Colliers

Lizette McNeill, Managing Partner – Facades, IXO

Stephan Saarloos, Associate, Skidmore, Owing and Merrill (SOM)

Workshop #2: Embracing the Social Implications of the Building Code

Date: 21 November 2023, 6:30 – 8:30pm

Book your ticket here.

Embracing the Social Implications of the Building Code: exploring opportunities within the existing parameters and identifying areas for reform. What recommendations can be proposed for future buildings and neighborhoods to propel Hong Kong towards a flourishing and sustainable future, enabling optimal life quality, physical well-being, purposeful living, and engaged communities?

Speakers:

Fai Au

Associate Professor of Practice, Department of Architecture

University of Hong Kong

Steven Au
Deputy General Manager
Nan Fung Development

Ulrich Kirchhoff
Associate Professor of Practice, Department of Architecture
University of Hong Kong

Simon Lee
Head of Business Development
Oootopia Hong Kong

Lawrence Iu
Executive Director
Civic Exchange

Charles Mui
Assistant General Manager
Swire Properties

Sarah Mui
Co Founder & Design Director
One Bite Design

Stefano Tronci
Asia-Pacific Sustainability Lead / Design Architect
Skidmore, Owings & Merrilll (SOM)

Workshop #3: The Health and Safety Implications of the Code

Date: Thursday 26 September 2024, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Book your ticket here.

The world is rapidly changing, yet building codes are slow in adapting. This series of workshops is inspired by a Fall 2022 Studio that ULI and HKU held which aimed to challenge the current restrictions imposed by the building codes. We investigated the adapability and resilience of high rise buildings and the limitations imposed by regulations.

Hong Kong has been challenged by SARS and COVID-19, two major pandemics in the last 20 years. The high density of our city has often been counterproductive in terms of a healthy environment. To improve the resilience of buildings, there is a need for architecture to redefine health and safety measures.

We will address key questions such as: What is a healthy building? What are the innovative ideas on health and safety in buildings? How could building regulations in Hong Kong be adjusted to allow for healthier buildings? How can healthy buildings be more attainable and sustainable?

Speakers:

Fai Au

Associate Professor (Practice)

The University of Hong Kong

Alessandro Bisagni

Founder & President

BEE Incorporations

Christine Bruckner

Director

M Moser Associates

Richard Chang

Vice President