Soho 38

Almost forgotten in a corner of the mid-level district of the old City of Victoria, now a part of the busy Central District of modern-day Hong Kong, the site was a conglomeration of five strips of land shaped by the intersection of three narrow streets designed not for the automobiles of today but for the rickshaws and sedan chairs of one hundred years ago.The site was located on a stepping terrain. The level difference of the upper Mosque Junction Road and the lower Mosque Street created two tiers of platform, and a podium was designed to bring the split level site together.Having the Mohammedan Mosque adjacent on the lower side gave the development the advantage of overlooking scenic Victoria Harbour without obstruction.

All units are oriented to have north facing windows to enjoy the spectacular harbour view. The tower is also set back from the podium, thus creating open space and letting in natural light to the living areas.

The design employs a window wall to create a nude skin, softening the domineering silhouette of the tower. Black and grey tones on the building form an ironic contrast to the surrounding marble and granite clad estates, and to the skyline above.Providing 75 units in about 4,300 square metres of domestic gross floor area on a small site of 423 square metres, this design presents a possible solution to a big question of old city rejuvenation, a sensible and economical response based on a real understanding of the city we live in.

Residential

4,405 Sqm

Mid Levels, Hong Kong

Completed 2008