Eight Gates
Project Details
The architectural and landscape design for a new pavilion structure has been completed within the 137.3-hectare campus of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). This pavilion is part of the Caring Alumni Eco Campus Trail and provides a 900 square metre semi-covered open space. The pavilion includes seating areas and a small events space underneath the canopy structure and landscape water feature. This additional amenity space will be much needed for students and the university community.
The site is situated in an open space between the two buildings, Sir Run Run Shaw Hall and Y.C. Liang Hall. The pavilion structure harmoniously coexists with the prominent Banyan tree, which has become an iconic feature of the site over the years. Integrated lighting at the periphery of the eight portal frame structures transforms the pavilion’s nocturnal appearance, creating a vibrant purple hue that pays homage to the university’s identity.
Collaborating with a certified arborist, SKY YUTAKA devised a structural strategy to safeguard the substantial Banyan tree. The project underwent several design iterations, involving carefully hand-digging trenches to meticulously survey the root positions and ultimately finalise the structural footing. In essence, the seemingly random composition of the final design geometry reflects the meticulous study and arrangement that enabled the pavilion structure to be realised in close proximity to the existing tree, thereby ensuring its preservation.
