WING by Laboratory for Explorative Architecture & Design

Architects: Laboratory for Explorative Architecture & Design
Location: Chai Wan, Hong Kong
Year: 2014
Area: 2,540 sqft
Photo courtesy: Dennis Lo Designs, Ramon Van Der Heijden
Description:

Hong Kong’s neighbourhood Chai Wan is the next up-and-coming cultural hub on the island. As industrial activities are slowly disappearing from the area, the rough post-industrial urban fabric leaves behind a unique range of spaces and places that form the backdrop for an innovative creative scene. WING is the latest addition to what Chai Wan has on offer.

Located on the top of a large waterfront industrial complex, this spacious loft / performance space is a versatile and flexible venue for contemporary dance, exhibitions, performances and events, which simultaneously allows for an instant conversion into office spaces and/or residence.

By packing this multifaceted programme in a relatively small area in a derelict industrial warehouse, the project voices a strong critique to Hong Kong’s extreme housing situation, lack of cultural facilities, and its and negligence of its industrial heritage. Hidden where one would least expect it WING offers Hong Kong a rare place for creative expression. Hyper-flexibility and spatial efficiency are pushed to the maximum to allow the project’s ambitious programme.

Careful selection of materials, geometries, craft and techniques gives the space its unique, warm and charismatic identity. With frequent events scheduled throughout the year WING aims to facilitate and stimulate Hong Kong’s creativity.