Color-shifting jewel of Kai Tak nears completion

The installation of facade panels on the main stadium of the Kai Tak Sports Park was finished yesterday, marking nearly 85 percent completion of the venue, ahead of next year's opening of the National Games hosted by Hong Kong, Guangdong and Macau.

The 50,000-seat stadium is designed with the theme "Pearl of the Orient." It features a multilayered facade made up of about 27,000 aluminum panels, each shaped into signature triangular pieces for a distinctive visual appeal.

"The unique design allows shifting to different hues - including mountain blue, metallic purple and metallic silver - depending on the brightness of daylight," the park said, adding the design will bring "a contemporary and cosmopolitan aura" to Kowloon East.

The pearlescent panel surfaces have self-cleaning capabilities and long-lasting durability using a proprietary coating technology, which minimizes the impact of dust and rainwater.

"This represents a remarkable milestone, showcasing our project team's unwavering commitment to excellence and their relentless pursuit of creating a world-class sports and entertainment hub," project director John Sharkey said. "This also transforms the iconic skyline of Victoria Harbour."

The exterior surface originally needed over 47,000 panels but 20,000 panels were saved when various advanced digital technologies for incorporation into a comprehensive building information model was used.

"This model served as a robust platform for data analysis and verification, seamlessly integrating all facets of the exterior facades, including the external structure, dimensions of triangular panels and other related building components, such as a glass wall and LED lighting," the park said.

"This accomplishment serves as a distinctive illustration of our adherence to the 3S concept of standardization, simplification and single integrated elements during the planning, design and construction process. This enhanced the efficiency of work execution - minimizing the need for extensive field work and ensuring effective budget control."

The park will be "a vibrant and magnetic sports hub," promoting sports in the community, elite sports and Hong Kong's status as a center for major international events, it added.

The park's major facilities are expected to be completed in phases by the end of the year.

It will be the first time for Hong Kong to cohost the National Games, with eight competitions expected to be held in the city.

sophie.hui@singtaonewscorp.com