Against the tide of modernity, Hong Kong's administration has enhanced its efforts to preserve and revitalize the SAR's historic buildings for adaptive re-use.
Under the Revitalization Scheme, historic buildings have been given new leases of life for the enjoyment of the people. As is aptly stated on the Development Bureau's website: "Heritage bears witness to the development of our city and is a valuable and unique asset of our community."
While we often think of urban development and conservation as conflicting ends of a spectrum, that does not always have to be the case. This is underscored in the Heritage Fiesta and Roving Exhibition 2021 presented by the commissioner for the bureau's Heritage's Office.
Running to October 31, the Heritage Fiesta features 11 revitalization projects of publicly-owned historic buildings and offers free guided tours on a first-come first-served basis with online registration required.
Of the 11 buildings in the program, 10 come under the Revitalizing Historic Buildings Through Partnership Scheme.
Some of the notable projects include the former Fanling magistracy, the Tai O Heritage Hotel and Viva Blue House, both recognized by Unesco's Asia-Pacific Awards for excellence in Cultural Heritage Conservation.
There is also a roving exhibition at various venues throughout Hong Kong, which will run until December 31.
The exhibition showcases local heritage sites that have been transformed into enduring landmarks through innovative restoration techniques.
Cultural and heritage conservation are vital to preserve a unique sense of identity. Without it, we would be missing the distinct idiosyncrasies that make Hong Kong unlike any other place.
The Heritage Fiesta and Exhibition celebrates Hong Kong's distinguished history.
The exhibition serves as an important reminder that the past is inexplicably linked to the future.
For more information on participating heritage sites and exhibition locations, check: https://www.heritage.gov.hk/en/whatsnew/events-62.htm
Bernard Charnwut Chan is chairman of Tai Kwun Culture & Arts Co.
standard@bernardchan.com
Clockwise from left: the former Fanling magistracy, the Tai O Heritage Hotel and Viva Blue House.
