A SYMBIOSIS BETWEEN OLD AND NEW

The People’s Association (PA) HQ is located at the site of the former Victoria School, a neo-classical building completed in 1933. The project involved the conservation of the original site and the integration of a new building. Inspired by the rain tree, which reflects the core values of PA as an umbrella grassroots organisation, the building couples bold architectural expressions with simple environmental design to create an attractive and highly functional workspace.

A new five-storey office structure was inserted behind the conserved classroom block. A series of link bridges connect the new and old structures, with landscaped courtyards and pre-function areas carved out between them to provide informal gathering and meeting spaces.

A five-storey, naturally ventilated atrium inserted at the centre of the new development draws warm air up, creating a cooling effect in common areas at the lower levels.

Specialists were employed for the meticulous restoration of existing materials, particularly the ‘Shanghai plaster’ walls and columns. To make the buildings air-conditioned without affecting the original aesthetic character, complementary window types were installed behind the existing windows and openings.