The 2047 Pavilion

Perforated-patterned metal shutters (通花鐵閘) (abbreviated here as PPMS) are a common building component found in vernacular shopfronts, unique to Hong Kong since the post-war period but have almost vanished today. They once marked our industrial prosperity and self-empowered craftsmen. They remind us the down-to- earth beauty and robustness of the diligent working class - the past majority of us. Our Pavilion, inspired by the nostalgic aesthetics and material culture of PPMS, is proposed to celebrate vernacular identity and resonate with local community by evoking familiarity and affinity.

Covering a footprint of 9m x 27m, Our Pavilion is defined by simple roof form supported by hybrid of steel column and CLT beam structure. Yet maximum autonomy defines the space underneath such roof. Our Pavilion does not have one fixated appearance. The blurred boundaries between inside and outside open to visitors approaching from all existing routes. The folding sliding mechanism of PPMS is utilised and elaborated to create different facades and spatial arrangements. Partitions become movable. Variations of opening and shutting partitions are designed to optimise for flexibility and multifunctional purpose. The size of the shutters suggests the hierarchy of space contained within, differentiating between the main event and utility space. Full height narrow shutters around the pavilion perimeter are translucent ETFE panels with bottom perforations drawing human interaction, while lower wide shutters are of cellular polycarbonate panels free to be slided by visitors and users. Expanded metal mesh are fixed on the upper facade, optimising for natural ventilation above the rooms.