Memorial Hall for All

The Memorial Hall for All draws inspiration from the centuries-old tradition of ancestral worship in Southeast China, where families erected ancestral shrines to honor their clan’s forebears, symbolizing their influence in the community and fostering a sense of belonging for future generations. However, the waves of industrialization and globalization led to a mass migration of people into bustling urban centers like Hong Kong, where they forged new lives detached from their ancestral roots. In this new cityscape, families formed new lineages, and after several generations, their cultural heritage became intertwined with the fabric of Hong Kong’s society. Yet, amidst this transformation, their ancestral traditions and halls were left behind.

To commemorate the pioneers of Hong Kong, the Memorial Hall seeks to narrate the intertwined stories of the city’s evolution and its people’s journey. Through a museum that chronicles Hong Kong’s history and an ancestral worship ground that honors the diverse cultural legacies of its inhabitants, the Hall serves as a multifaceted tribute to the past, present, and future of this vibrant metropolis.

The Memorial Hall’s design drew inspiration from the graceful movements of the human body, aiming to create interior spaces that feel both familiar and captivating. Chun-Li’s attire served as a visual reference, aligning with the desired aesthetic and functionality of the space.

Given Hong Kong’s hot and humid climate, effective ventilation is essential for comfort. Traditional ancestral halls utilized courtyard layouts to encourage airflow, following the Yin and Yang principles of Chinese architecture. This design ensured natural cooling by allowing winds to pass through, reducing moisture and temperature.

To honor this tradition, the Memorial Hall adopts similar design principles. Its central opening creates a donut-shaped structure reminiscent of traditional ancestral halls, promoting airflow. Additionally, Yin and Yang concepts are integrated to regulate temperature and airflow. However, adjustments were made for the dry, sunny climate of the new location. Instead of an entirely open concept, the design balances interior comfort with exterior conditions. Yang elements provide usable space, while Yin elements facilitate airflow and cooling, ensuring a pleasant environment even in extreme heat.

This approach blends cultural heritage with practical considerations, resulting in a design that respects tradition while adapting to contemporary needs.