Schematic Evolution

A series of study models was developed and explored within the context of the site surroundings using detailed topographical models of the Hong Kong cityscape. Two fundamental design directions were explored.



Option 1. Developed in response to the Government’s IFP. In this option the Hong Kong Museum Complex is articulated as four buildings, Museum of Moving Image(MOMI),Museum of Modern Art( MOMA), Museum of Ink(MINK), and Museum of Design (MOD) that are connected by a central core structure.



Option 2. The fragmented architectural expression of Option 1 is abandoned in favor of a more cohesive architectural gesture that creates an iconic presence on the harbour front. In this option, the Hong Kong Museum Complex is envisioned as a horizontal structure that stands in contrast to the vertical density of the surrounding buildings in Central and that compliments the character and energy of the harbour front.

Rigorous discussions between Swire and the architectural team continually questioned the enormous scale of the Government's planned museum programme. The conclusion reached was that the floor area should be reduced from the 100,000 sq. m specified in the West Kowloon programme to 50,000 sq.m, denoting a larger area for landscaped open spaces as well as educational and public functions. The main benefits of working with this smaller floor plan are:

• The reduced size of the museum complex fits more comfortably within the scale of the neighbouring buildings and within the greater context of the harbour.
  
  
• The expanded open areas create much-needed breathing space in the congested urban fabric of the surrounding city.
  
  
• Museum back-of-house and support facilities can be shared among institutions, enabling economies of scale.
  
  
• Finally, the reduced exhibition programme allows the museum complex to be more easily and efficiently operated and curated.

The Design Evolution

Various design directions were explored, combining the best elements from Option 1 and Option 2, and all were based on a net programme area of 50,000 sq. m.

One by one, each model was placed in situ, photographed, and investigated from a number of different perspectives. These images slowly build up an understanding of how the various models impact and interact with the site and the surrounding environment. This process enabled the design team to develop an architectural expression based on the unique conditions and assets of the Tamar site.

A systematic and objective process of analysis and evaluation eventually led to a series of fundamental and rational principles:

• The museum complex should serve as a "connector" for pedestrian traffic and should provide desirable green space, reaching out to Wanchai, Admiralty and Central, and transforming an otherwise under-utilized, yet prime, piece of waterfront land with activities and culture.
  
  
• The museum complex should take advantage of the waterfront by maximizing access to views of the harbour from within the interior.
  
  
• Multidisciplinary galleries, educational facilities and support facilities can be accommodated within the site as a cohesive and fluid framework, allowing different disciplines to intermingle while simultaneously allowing the flexibility for future growth.