Driving Sustainable Community Space Design With Architectural Philosophy
Inspiring Reflection: The Journey to Embracing Community Space Design
Manfred admitted, “Initially, community space design never crossed my mind. Following my first entrepreneurial setback, I experienced self-doubt and questioned my purpose. At the suggestion of my uncle, I decided to volunteer. It was during this time that a visit left a profound impact on me, leading me to question the responsibilities of architects. I realized our role is to nurture and cultivate the connections between buildings, people, and communities.”
The Founding Partner of Groundwork Architects, Manfred Yuen
(Image courtesy of Echo Asia Communications)
On Balancing Between “Community Space Design” and “Architectural Aesthetics”
“Social design should strive for a harmonious equilibrium, ensuring a balance (between both community space design and architectural aesthetics.)”
“While people are the creators of buildings, it is crucial to prevent buildings from overpowering human presence. Social design must operate on multiple levels, ultimately exerting influence through comprehensive policies.”
“Businesses must prioritize both profit and social responsibility. True social design encompasses quality of life, policy advocacy, and inspire public discourse” – Manfred Yuen
(Image courtesy of Echo Asia Communications)
Co-creation and Shared Value: Kwun Tong Community Facility “K7”
Last year, the Groundwork team worked with the government to establish the “Kwun Tong Town Centre Temporary Play Space” at the “Free Space” near Yue Man Square in Kwun Tong. This innovative space serves various purposes, including leisure, outdoor sports, cultural activities, creative endeavors, installation art, and amusement.
The Groundwork team has added vibrant colors to this “free space,” creating an appealing environment for people of all ages and backgrounds, including children, elders, and office workers. It offers a comforting atmosphere for individuals waiting for transportation, making their experience more enjoyable and bring a sense of well-being.
Project #K7, the redevelopment of Kwun Tong City Centre Temporary Free Space and Playground by Groundwork Architects
Project #K7, the redevelopment of Kwun Tong City Centre Temporary Free Space and Playground by Groundwork Architects
A Tale of Two Cities: A Sustainable Community Space Designed for Childplay
In 2019, Groundwork Architects established a Shenzhen branch, with Manfred leading the way in integrating the concept of sustainable community space design into their construction projects. One notable project was the design of Shenzhen King’s Kindergarten. Manfred introduced the project with the following statement, “Kindergarten is the place where a person first joins a social group and becomes a member of society. Here, children begin to learn how to interact with others, develop discipline, practice etiquette, and establish a collective consciousness. It is also a pivotal point where they start to truly understand themselves.”
Shenzhen King’s Kindergarten, designed by Groundwork Architects
Shenzhen King’s Kindergarten, designed by Groundwork Architects
EARTH DAY- Be a Better Social Designer
When proposed with a fun task to design a one-month community facility at the Hong Kong Stadium, Manfred suggested an innovative solution—an interactive, sustainable bamboo shed installation. He explained the key advantages of utilizing bamboo in this project. Firstly, bamboo sheds provide a cool and breathable environment, avoiding the urban heat island effect often associated with concrete structures. Secondly, the modular design of the bamboo sheds allows for swift disassembly and reassembly. Thirdly, bamboo exhibits rapid growth, reaching a usable height within a few months. Lastly, once disassembled, bamboo can serve various other purposes, such as crafting bamboo poles for drying clothes. This is what Manfred believes is an excellent exhibition of the ingenuity of the Chinese people.
“I firmly believe in equality, valuing the voices of the community, and designing innovative solutions that cater to their needs. This is the core principle driving our Groundwork team as sustainable community designers.” – Manfred Yuen
(Image courtesy of Echo Asia Communications)
Reference
深圳金生国际幼儿园 – 元新建城 – ARCH DAILY – Available at: https://www.archdaily.cn/cn/968124/shen-zhen-jin-sheng-guo-ji-you-er-yuan-yuan-xin-jian-cheng