CUHK
News Centre

The Chinese University of Hong Kong’s (CUHK) School of Architecture has demonstrated its excellence in the field of architecture, with faculty members and alumni receiving four annual awards presented by the Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA). Among these, the “One University One Village” (1U1V) team was honoured with the “HKIA Medal of the Year outside Hong Kong” and “HKIA Special Award – Sustainable Architecture”; in addition, two alumni were awarded the “HKIA Student Medal 2023” and “HKIA Young Architect Award 2023” respectively. These awards not only highlight the remarkable achievements of CUHK’s School of Architecture in both academic and practical realms, but also underscore the School’s commitment to contributing through innovative designs and knowledge transfer, ultimately enhancing the quality of life in local communities.

1U1V Project: Driving sustainable development in rural areas

The 1U1V team project, led by Professor Edward Ng Yan-yung, Yao Ling Sun Professor of Architecture at CUHK, adopted a “local technology, local materials, local labour” approach. The project was implemented in Dahei New Village, in a mountainous area of southwest China, where the Gongfang (community hall) serves as a vital venue for hosting various events and gatherings. The original Gongfang had deteriorated over time, becoming structurally unsafe. In response, the team came up with innovative rammed earth construction techniques, utilising local resources and training the villagers themselves to become skilled craftmen. This rebuilt the Gongfang into a safer and more comfortable space for the villagers.

This approach is crucial for enhancing the environmental, social and economic sustainability of rural areas. The HKIA judges commended the project’s rare feat of being sustainable in the fullest sense, socially, economically and environmentally, and it demonstrated that architecture can truly mitigate its impact on the environment without much ado, while reinforcing cultural values in the process.

Two alumni showcased the essence of future architects

Besides, two alumni of the School of Architecture were recognised for their individual achievements. Mr Ivan Chi Ho-man, a 2024 graduate of Master of Architecture, was awarded the “HKIA Student Medal 2023” for his thesis titled “Fragmentation of Light”, exploring material, model-making and sketch representation, with his architectural concept inspired by deconstructivism. He embodied the idea of fragmentation and reconstruction, fostering critical thinking and intellectual curiosity.

Mr Owen Lam Ho-wang, a 2018 graduate of Master of Architecture was honoured with the “HKIA Young Architect Award 2023”. He is the third CUHK alumnus to win this award in the past four years. Mr Lam’s design proposal addressed Hong Kong’s “double ageing” issue, that is aging population and aging urban fabric environment, through pragmatic, innovative interventions for both elderly people and the built environment. The judges praised Mr Lam for his passion in architecture, professional development and social engagement, calling him “a well-rounded and exceptional young architect.”

Since 1965, the HKIA Annual Awards have been among the most important architectural awards in Hong Kong, recognising outstanding achievements in architecture. The HKIA Medal of the Year is the highest honour it confers, seeking to establish a benchmark of outstanding quality in the architectural profession.