Project Plum Grove revitalises Mui Tsz Lam, a remote 360-year-old Hakka village in Sha Tau Kok, through experimental architectural demonstrations with participatory co-creation. The project kickstarted Mui Tsz Lam’s revival by restoring two ruined houses – Old House and Mural House. Three place-inspired design principles were adopted: In-situ, Light-touch and Co-create. Found materials were upcycled, while new rammed earth construction complemented adjustable scaffolding with timber-bamboo panels.
Over two years, the project engaged returning villagers, over 80 students, 120 volunteers and professionals to conserve past heritage while also exploring rural living for the village’s future flourishing. Besides brainstorming, co-designing, experiential learning and on-site making, a 200-people festival was held as celebration. Attracting more competitive research funding and NGOs to join and with phase two underway, the project regenerates Place by reconnecting People via a collaborative Process, demonstrating a sustainable model for rural revitalisation in Hong Kong.
Year
2022/23
Prize
HKIA Special Award - Architectural Installation, Curation & Exhibition Design
Architect(s)
Thomas Chung & School of Architecture, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
