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Factory Resettlement
Adaptive reuse of industrial building

Individual Academic
Kowloon Bay, Hong Kong SAR
September - November 2024

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The Port of Hong Kong was once Asia’s central cargo hub, with numerous warehouses constructed during that period. However, over the past 8 to 10 years, global production patterns have undergone significant changes. Traders have substantially reduced their activities in Hong Kong due to political risks and the pandemic. Many businesses have shifted to using Mainland ports for transporting goods and have found this alternative viable. With the reduction in cargo throughput in Hong Kong, vacant warehouses have become a pressing issue that will continue to demand attention. In response, the design proposed to convert cargo spaces into residential units to address the housing crisis.

The Kerry D.G. Warehouse used to be a dangerous goods facility in Kowloon Bay, and is currently experiencing declining utilization rates year after year. Many industrial buildings surrounding the site are being demolished to make way for new high-rise residential developments. In this project, the Kerry D.G. Warehouse, unlike its neighboring buildings, will be preserved and transformed into new housing that promotes sustainable living.

The design strategy encompasses several key elements: maintaining the original circulation patterns, reusing existing concrete, and implementing sustainable water management through precipitation harvesting and marine thermal cooling systems.

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Lightweight cellular beams were employed to minimise structural weight and enhance load-bearing efficiency. 

Deep seawater pipes for cooling purposes were ingeniously integrated within the cellular beams, circulating through them to cool both the floors and ceilings of the space.

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The kitchen and dining table are strategically aligned to the column, creating a visually balanced and harmonious arrangement within the space.

Seamlessly incorporating water pipes into the furniture design, the space achieves a seamless and efficient utilization of resources, further enhancing the functionality and fluidity of the kitchen and dining area.

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@2025 XINTIAN CHEN
ALL RIGHT RESERVED

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