Vertical Urbanism
Case Studies of High-Rise Streetscapes in Hong Kong
S.C. Tam (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
S. Calitz – Mentor (TU Delft - Architecture and the Built Environment)
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Abstract
As society advances, we encounter pressing global challenges such as resource scarcity and rapid population growth. According to the United Nations, “The world population is projected to reach 8.5 billion in 2030, and to increase further to 9.7 billion in 2050 and 10.4 billion by 2100.” This raises the question: how does architecture adapt to the swift increase in urban densification? One effective solution is the concept of a vertical streetscape, which combines multiple functions, such as transportation infrastructure, residential units, and retail spaces within a vertical space.
According to the Vertical Urbanism report, Hong Kong is the second most densely populated region in the world after Mumbai and ranks fourth in terms of tall buildings (≥100 m) stock, with a low crime rate. As a prominent global financial centre and commercial port, it is an exemplary case study demonstrating the right balance of density and connection. At the heart of this urban landscape is the High-rise Mixed-Use Building, the current dominant building type in Hong Kong.
This article will focus on the smaller, human scale of Hong Kong’s vertical streetscapes. From studying the historical background, investigating the first skyscraper, then branching out to the most recent designs, to analyse and derive insights from these examples. Primary archives, such as plans and sections, are studied to identify the high-rise composite building typology's characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses.