Renovation and Expansion of the Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA) is a dual process – working simultaneously on “veil” - enfolding existing building with its context and specific moment; and “unveil” – unfolding its museum collection and events to public.
Veil
HKMoA had been overshadowed by the adjacent Cultural Complex. Facelift to the existing building is necessary for new identity and to engage new dialogue with the city.
Aspired by the ripple image of Victoria Harbour, the facade concept is a reinterpretation of Traditional Masonry Work and Op-Art pattern – reflecting diversity of the Museum collection. Multi-faceted façade is animated by the interplay of light and shadow that changes over time and weather.
Translucent quality of fifth-floor expansion presents a strong contrast to the solid and opaque character of the building bulk below. The laminated glass gives a slightly blurring effect to the panoramic Harbor view, forming a perfect backdrop for the art installations.
Unveil
All additional spaces are designed to maximize the transparency of the existing building. Carving out the building mass, the idea was to open up the museum for daylight and views.
Form of Annex wing is skewed to respect the geometry of the original structure. Atrium space is designed as a daylit white cube for large sculpture. Annex gallery at G/F can be fully opened to extend exhibition to outdoor piazza of Cultural Complex.
Glass canopy cantilevered from the entrance foyer embraces the frontal Art Square. Entry experience was then orchestrated by contrasts of materials, with bronze wall carries through the escalator lobbies illuminating the vertical axis.
This revitalization is part of the transformation of Victoria Harbour – a vast redevelopment including improvement to the Avenue of Star. New HKMoA will be the gateway and catalyst, changing the harbour area into activities hub.
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