Located in Hong Kong, my project “Return the Statue Square” examines how civic architecture could facilitate the public's engagement with social and political issues in a place ruled by a dominant government. The main idea is to revitalise the Statue Square, a place with social and political significance in the past, into a recreational space that would be is government-sanctioned, whilst advancing a clandestine political agenda through the elements within the site. Through delicate balancing of conflicting agendas and due consideration of local culture and history, the project demonstrates the possibility of architects intervening in the otherwise impenetrable political order of a society.
A view from bus pavilion
The pavilion acts as a bus stop so people can enjoy the space when waiting bus. The terrace cafe and bridge allows people to look down the diving pool and pavilion and people can therefore interact between the space. Where there are mass assemblies so that people will fill up the area, the space allows for multiple uses that serve different purposes. For example, some people may go on the diving board to give speeches whereas others may wish to conduct small group discussions or chit-chats on the ground level. The bridge also allows people to hang up banners as a backdrop for the speaker.
A view from diving board
The diving board is facing the cenotaph to pay tribute. In the normal days, the bus pavilions allow people to watch others diving while waiting bus. The open area in the plaza also allows people to carry out any wellness activities such as Taichi, Yoga, or even take a nap. There is, however, a further possibility that the diving board may also allow anyone to give public speech. The speech can attract passerby’s attention and there can be a next person go up the diving board and give comments. This encourage communication and exchange of ideas between the public.
Stage facing Court of Final Appeal
During weekdays, public including workers can sit in the gathering pool and enjoy local films, music shows and other performances. They can grab a lunch and soak the legs in the pool. Small group discussions may also happen at the gathering pool, which would allow people to discuss in a more private way.
In the spirit of reconciliation Monash University acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
