The University of Hong Kong Global Innovation Centre | Hong Kong, SAR | 2022

Architects: Moore Ruble Yudell Architects and Planners
Lead Architect: John Ruble and James Mary O'Connor
Associate Architects: Andrew Lee King Fun & Associates Architects Ltd.
Client: The University of Hong Kong Estates Office
Photographs: Courtesy of the Architects

The project focuses on developing the Global Innovation Centre (GIC) for the University of Hong Kong (HKU) to support Hong Kong’s focus on Innovation and Technology (I&T) and reinforce its leadership in research. The proposed site, located along Pok Fu Lam Road and Victoria Road, spans approximately 45,000 m², predominantly within a “Green Belt” (GB) zone, with a minor portion in a “Residential (Group C)” (R(C)) zone under the Pok Fu Lam Outline Zoning Plan (OZP).

The site faces traffic constraints on Pok Fu Lam Road and Victoria Road, necessitating a detailed Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA). The TIA will assess transport issues, forecast future traffic, and propose mitigation if necessary. Following TPDM guidelines, vehicular access will likely be from Victoria Road to minimize disruptions on Pok Fu Lam Road.

A Section 5A Town Planning Application is underway, and the development team will ensure compliance with planning requirements. To avoid delays, the design will incorporate considerations from various assessment reports, including building heights and spacing per the Air Ventilation Impact Assessment Report (AVIA) and Visual Impact Assessment Report (VIA). Compliance with planning conditions noted in the draft OZP gazette will be a priority.

The undeveloped, vegetated site requires careful design that respects the natural topography and minimizes excavation. Key considerations include first of all the topography: designing in harmony with the slope, with minimal excavation and the visual impact: diverse building heights and profiles, sensitive to nearby residential areas. Additionally, it incorporates the landscape preservation: minimizing tree felling and incorporating ample greenery. Lastly they involve the public space and connectivity: creating public spaces, connecting Pok Fu Lam and Victoria Roads, and enhancing campus accessibility.

Initial massing divides the campus into five blocks, linked by a uniform “Campus Boulevard” that accommodates phased construction. Building heights adhere to guidelines, with academic blocks limited to two stories above Pok Fu Lam Road’s mean level, ensuring scenic views toward Telegraph Bay.

The site’s slope—from +138mPD to +65mPD—requires integrating buildings with the terrain to reduce excavation and preserve vegetation. Stream courses may be redirected carefully to prevent geological impact, while retaining structures may require modification. Where existing geo-technical features are retained, stability upgrades will be considered.

The GIC is organized to foster a dynamic research environment with interconnected neighborhoods that facilitate interdisciplinary work. A grand mid-level Campus Boulevard serves as the central circulation spine, connecting vertical and horizontal paths with elevator cores and outdoor escalator courts for efficient movement. The boulevard forms a shaded pedestrian and bicycle route with waterfront views, enhancing connectivity and interaction.

The GIC aims to integrate seamlessly with the Sassoon Road Campus and adjacent infrastructure on Pok Fu Lam Road and Victoria Road, ensuring cohesive design and minimal interference. Connectivity improvements, including enhanced links to the existing campus and Quasi-Health Model (QHM) across Pok Fu Lam Road, will support smooth integration.

A residential tower on Pok Fu Lam Road will serve as a campus landmark, featuring a plaza that leads to dining and social facilities, as well as an Exhibition and Conference Center. The boulevard will link to pedestrian paths, elevators, and ramps across different campus levels, with vehicular access from Victoria Road to reduce traffic impact.

The design integrates with the natural landscape, minimizing visual disruption to nearby neighborhoods. Buildings are oriented to maximize panoramic views over Telegraph Bay, creating a unique environment that blends with the site’s topography. The careful massing and height profile reduce visual impact, preserving a sense of openness and enhancing the surrounding scenery.