To invite all walks of life to the education centre serving a wide variety of programmes, the space would be homey and welcoming through the use of materiality and spatial informality. Mixing with other elements you may find at homes like pot plants, curtains, bookshelves, creates a comfortable vibe for all.

Accommodating a range of happenings, from a quiet library, seminars to workshops, the room has to be equipped with flexible and light furniture objects in adapting the scenarios. Beautifully crafted wood stools that may function as a chair, storage, and bench would be a perfect candidate for the purpose.

The education centre is situated in the century-old heritage building, there is no way to avoid contact with the past. Not only does the design respond to materials (red brick, dark wood floor and frames) with lighter but compatible contemporary options, but also the play with the iconic segmented arches, which are visible around the complex, generate a subtle yet engaging spatial and aesthetic dialogue between past and now.

Date: December 2022

Location: Tai Kwun, Hong Kong

Design Architects: Napp Studio & Architects, and Building Narrative

Builder: Unicorn Vision Design & Engineering

Client: Tai Kwun

Photographer: Jimmy HO, Leon XU