Snøhetta Proposes Sustainable Urban Farm in Hong Kong

Snøhetta was hired by New World Development in 2017 to create clubhouses for the Pavilia Farm development in Tai Wai, Hong Kong. These clubhouses serve various functions for the community. The Tea House and Farm House have been finished and recently opened, with the Sky House set to be finished by the end of 2023.

 

A sanctuary for calm and simplicity

The Pavilia Farm development, located near the Shing Mun River and surrounded by mountains, has been designed by Snøhetta to offer residents a sanctuary of calm and simplicity amidst the bustling city of Hong Kong. The clubhouses have been strategically placed throughout the development as an "interactive string," connecting various programs to create a wholesome and enriching experience for residents. 

The project emphasizes the importance of creating new green, urban neighbourhoods and serves as an example of how to make urban living sustainable both environmentally and socially. According to Robert Greenwood, Partner and Managing Director of Snøhetta Asia, the Tea House and Farm House within the development represent the idea of collective ownership and create a green oasis in the heart of Hong Kong where residents can find peace and connect with one another.

 

The Tea House is intended to be a sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city, where visitors can find peace and tranquillity. Water is the central theme of the design, with an indoor pool on one side and a waterfall on the other. The soothing sound of falling water is an integral part of the experience, helping to relax the mind and slow down the pace. The Tea House is meant to be a place of arrival, where visitors can escape the fast-paced urban environment and ascend into a state of calm.

 

The houses

The Farm House at Pavilia Farm serves as a gathering place for the community, bringing the natural elements of the farm into the home. Surrounded by the urban farm and its fresh produce, the Farm House is the focal point of the farm. The design centres around a rail-bound table system, intended to foster shared experiences and bring people together.

Similar to a dining table in a traditional home, the Farm House table serves as the hub for conversation, laughter, and spending time with loved ones. Residents can prepare and enjoy meals together, all while sharing stories and experiences. The table is the heart of the Farm House, and the Farm House itself creates a sense of community through food and the act of harvesting from nature. In contrast to a meditative Tea House, the Farm House is a lively and social space.

 

Bringing people together

The design and intended usage of the two houses may differ, yet they share the same underlying principle and goal; to bring individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups together to share experiences and create lasting memories. The objective was to construct buildings that could be utilized and cherished by everyone. To design spaces that enhance the quality of life for residents, offer a haven for tranquillity, and foster social interaction and shared experiences in the bustling city of Hong Kong.

 

Press release and photos courtesy of Snøhetta