Redefinding the boundaries in the air

 

Keywords: building boundaries, spatial diversity, plug-in system, habitable three-dimensional system

 

The building complex of Chungking Mansions is a typical modern style building with habitable spaces defined by rigid and sharp boundaries. This rigidity largely undermines the spatial diversity and hence the rich spatial experience in people’s daily lives.

 

In view of it, my project is to redefine the existing boundaries of the complex by adopting a plug-in system and modifying the envelopes of the living units. The redefinition respects the existing program. Moreover, connections are also introduced between different levels to break down the insolation between the existing monotonic repetitions of floors.

 

All in all, the boundaries are no longer identified with straight lines, or the corresponding spaces flat ‘surfaces’. Rather, they form a habitable three-dimensional system, which can cultivate and support a variety of activities, echoing to the existing context.