Experience a Belgian winter wonderland at Lee Tung Avenue, Wanchai. Themed “Dazzling Christmas”, this pedestrian area with charming European-style architecture is adorned by Bruges lace-inspired Christmas light installations created by award-winning festive light specialist GLOBALL Concept from Belgium.
Lining the walkways are huge lightings in the shape of Christmas trees and Christmas wreaths that lead to a stunning 27-metre-long centrepiece featuring two reindeers above the Central Piazza and an 8-metre-high “lacey” Christmas tree decorated with over 1,000 baubles.
“Through the breathtaking lace-inspired Christmas decorations on Lee Tung Avenue, we hope to inspire Hong Kong people to cherish not only the cultural heritage of Belgium, but also to appreciate the enduring value of traditional craftsmanship from around the world,” said GLOBALL Concept’s senior designer Alain Dierick.
“By blending these timeless techniques with the festive spirit of the season, we aim to evoke a sense of wonder and community, inviting people to come together and share the magic of the holidays that foster connection, appreciation, and love,” he emphasized.
Local elements are also incorporated. During his previous visits to Hong Kong, Dierick was mesmerized by the incredible night view of Victoria Harbour from the top of the Peak. “The way the lights of the city danced and sparkled across the harbour left a lasting impression on me,” he explained. The same feeling of wonder and enchantment is created in designing the Christmas decorations for Lee Tung Avenue.
He added that Lee Tung Avenue brings out the best of Belgium and Hong Kong. In Belgium, Christmas decorations tend to be twinkling illuminations that line the streets, adorn buildings and fill outdoor Christmas markets. In contrast, Hong Kong's Christmas decor often takes a more dramatic approach with displays at the grand atrium to serve as the centerpiece.
Dierick revealed that preparations began as early as April. “It's not just a matter of having a stunning design or visual concept - we also have to consider a number of technical and environmental factors when developing the final product,” he said. This includes carefully selecting the appropriate lighting technology, ensuring the right scale and proportions, addressing packaging and transportation needs, and guaranteeing the structural integrity and safety of the displays.
Meticulous technical considerations are especially important for large-scale installations. The Christmas tree, for example, is adorned with thousands of flashing lights, hundreds of lace-patterned ornaments and a variety of glittering lace accents, while the giant Christmas wreaths are produced using a sophisticated laser cutting technology and a unique PVC net material accented by sparkling light motifs and curtain lights.
Lee Tung Avenue light decorations will be displayed until 1 January 2025 with 50 snow shows throughout December to create an unforgettable European festive atmosphere.
Alain Dierick