Arnold Yok Fai Wong, who is currently a Senior Architect at Aedas focusing on both the design and project coordination in commercial and residential projects, has won the Hong Kong Institute of Architects Young Architect Award 2019 with his design proposal, "Modular & Inter-generational Community."

Awarded annually, the HKIA Young Architect Award (YAA) is co-organised by the Hong Kong Institute of Architects and Asian Cultural Council Hong Kong annually to honour and acknowledge the talents and contribution of architects aged 35 or below.

Each year, the winner is selected based on 4 criteria: the quality of the design proposal for that year's theme, quality of previous personal work, professional and social participation, and proposal for the 3-week architectural study trip in the United States, sponsored by the Hsin Chong - K. N. Godfrey Yeh Education Fund.

The theme of HKIA Young Architect Award 2019 was "Housing+ - Re-imagine affordable housing and better living".  The competition sought for innovative and unique design proposals of Housing Communities that demonstrate creativity with forward-looking ideas.

The Award selected one winner, 2 Honourable Mentions, named Hang Tang Javian Chi and Vince Yiu Kam Po, and one Finalist - Cheong Chan Kin. See other winning designs here. 

The Jury recognised Arnold Yok Fai Wong as an all-rounded young architect who had demonstrated his passion in design, professional development and social participation.

In his design proposal, Wong playfully explored the potential of Modular Integrated Construction (MIC). Using a single shipping container module, he had cleverly designed a hybrid building with adaptive layouts and diversified uses, creating pleasant living space for the dwellers and vibrant urban space for the community.

"The Jury Panel believes that Mr. Wong could benefit from his study tour in the United States; and that Mr. Wong would undoubtedly share his insights gained with the local architectural profession and put his knowledge to good use in serving the public in Hong Kong," said the HKIA website. 

Results are decided by a 5-member Jury Panel after a series of investigation, conversation with candidates and debate in 4-week time.  

The 5-member Jury Panel composed of Ms. Josephine Wai, Director, Asia Cultural Council Hong Kong, Ms. Anna Kwong, HKIA Past President (2009-2010), Dr. Rosman Wai, HKIA Past Vice President (2015-2016), Expert researcher in Hong Kong’s public housing, Ms. Mei Chiu, HKIA Young Architect Award 2008 recipient, Mr. Tony Ip, HKIA Young Architect Award 2010 recipient.

All images courtesy of Hong Kong Institute of Architects

> via Hong Kong Institute of Architects