HKU Architecture Gallery Exhibition Promotes Sustainable Practices

The HKU Architecture Gallery recently hosted the exhibition "Bricking Up with Carbon: Investigating Local Artificial Geologies," showcasing the innovative work of three graduating architecture students—Isaac Tang, Kim Chan, and Nicholas Cheung. This exhibition centred on sustainability and addressed the pressing issue of construction waste in Hong Kong, which constitutes approximately 70% of the city's total waste.

In his opening speech, Professor Thomas Tsang, Associate Dean (Impact and Communications) of the Faculty of Architecture at HKU, reflected on the gallery's evolution since its inception before the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted the importance of creating a space that not only showcased student work but also encouraged community engagement. Professor Tsang highlighted the exhibition's aim to stimulate discussions about responsible design and material reuse, emphasising the urgent need for new approaches in architectural practice.

The exhibition featured an interactive component where visitors could use leftover studio materials, laser-cut scraps, and surplus bricks to assemble configurable furniture. Isaac explained, “A lot of the materials in this exhibition are actually made from leftover and scrap materials from our studio. We want to show that sustainability can start from what we already have.” 

Kim added, “In architecture, the future may be about modular construction and designing for disassembly. It’s not just about the end product, but also the process of how we design and build.” Step-by-step guides were provided, enabling participants to engage hands-on with the concepts presented.

Nicholas noted, “The built environment produces around 40% of the total carbon dioxide emissions in the world. As architecture students, we feel a responsibility to reform this practice and be more conscious of how we source and use materials.” This initiative is particularly relevant given the significant impact of building practices on global carbon emissions.

Prof. Yung Ho Chang, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture, also attended the event, underscoring the faculty's commitment to fostering innovative and sustainable design practices among its students. The exhibition served as a platform for raising awareness about the importance of material reuse and sustainable building practices, inviting the public to rethink their approach to the built environment.

The exhibition highlighted the graduating students' talents while emphasising the need for a united commitment to sustainability in architecture, inspiring attendees to reflect on their contribution to a more environmentally responsible future.