With the size of 12 hectares, Station Square stands as the biggest urban square in Hong Kong. Rather than one single square, it is designed as a sequence of urban spaces embodying the activities responding to the surroundings, with following major design concepts:
(1) A Gateway – an Urban connector
Station Square, strategically located at the heart of Kai Tak area, a new Central Business District in Hong Kong, acts as an urban spine connecting its vibrant mix of urban context, linking new residential buildings and commercial towers with historical monuments and Kai Tak Sports Park. It functions as a key connector, especially its axial links from the Metro stations to Kai Tak Sports Park and new living quarters.
(2) A Place for People
A central civic space with large plaza and lawn area is formed next to the metro station, with a dialogue to new commercial developments, for large gathering, e.g. count down and outdoor performances.
A series of urban spaces along the axis is provided for a variety of activities, such as lawn bowling green, children play areas, cycling facilities, etc, acting as a series of human “niches”, taking account of the forces from its vibrant context, to manifest as a place for the people.
(3) An Emerald – an urban oasis
Station Square acts as an urban oasis amidst the surrounding dense urban fabric. With its extensive greenery and linear water pond, it helps to mitigate the heat island effect. The concept of “Canopy of Tree” not only creates an identity for this project by a thick canopy of topiary trees, but also provides large natural shaded spaces for public to enjoy cool breeze away from the sun. “Sponge city” idea is also introduced through providing an abundant landscaped area for better management of storm water and reduce flooding.