Back Alley Filter

Abstract

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With increasing demands for public space, the redevelopment schemes in Hong Kong led by the government and real estate developers aim to create an image of clean alleys to relieve the urgency. Although the city’s back alleys are usually cramped with building service equipment that have negative environment impacts on the environment, the functionality of these space is not addressed in the schemes.

 

By looking into environmental principles, the proposal treats back alleys as a filter rather than the source of environmental harm, reversing the negative connotations through passive and active strategies and eventually providing a hygienic and pleasant environment for the public.

Methodology

 

The research process started from learning the principle environmental aspects through model-making and experiments, looking for a way to interpret the environment principles with architectural solutions. Through site selection process done by observation and documentation, spatial varieties in different back alleys are addressed.

 

One specific site was chosen as the test ground for interventions, to provide guidelines to other places in high density urban context. The design and research process went back and forth, tackling with subjects from small scales like pipes and ducts to large scales including building façade and patterns. The form of the final design presented represents the ideas and aims behind this thesis project. The outcome could be multiple iterations when situated in different sites.

 

This thesis research investigates the conflicts between the demand of more urban space and the functionality nature of these back lanes. Back alleys have the potential to be adapted by the public and maintain its functions, while the latter could provide thermal comfort to the former to foster new form of public space.

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Public space could come into shape informally and naturally when the space is pleasant and easy to use. The existing back alleys have the potential to become part of the public space when provided with better environmental performances.