Walk DVRC Street Basket

Mobility and Sustainability in Hong Kong's Pedestrianization Plan

The inspiration for the Walk DVRC Street Basket comes from the rich food culture of Hong Kong. The design team recognized that food is a unifying element in the city and used it as a metaphor to create a multifunctional space. During the day, the Street Basket serves as a seating area, a place for planting, cellphone charging, and shading. At night, it becomes an iconic communal space for families to gather and enjoy.

What sets the Walk DVRC Street Basket apart is its mobility. The project is part of the larger Walk DVRC pedestrianization plan, which aims to turn 1 km of Des Voeux Road Central into a park. To ensure flexibility and adaptability, the Street Basket is designed to be lightweight and easily movable. With a wood canopy and steel columns, it provides a sturdy structure while remaining mobile throughout the day. The use of battery power eliminates the need for external electricity, making it wireless and sustainable.

The technical specifications of the Walk DVRC Street Basket include a 4m by 4m plan with a 3m tall structure. Wheels and a battery system are installed below the structure, allowing for easy mobility and electricity supply. The design team worked closely with contractors to ensure that the installation process was efficient and could be completed within hours of road closure.

The Walk DVRC Street Basket project started in November 2018 and was completed in November 2019. Extensive research was conducted to understand the concept of walkability and gather input from the community. The design integrates the desires of the public, including more greenery, seating, shading, free wifi, play areas, and quiet performance spaces.

One of the main challenges faced by the design team was the lack of existing infrastructure on the street. Without access to electricity and water, they had to find innovative solutions. The Street Basket incorporates a mobile battery system with solar panels for power and a water tank with rain collection for irrigation. This not only reduced construction costs but also promoted the concept of sustainable design.

The Walk DVRC Street Basket has received recognition for its ingenuity and creativity. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Street and City Furniture Design category in 2021. This prestigious award honors designs that demonstrate technical and creative excellence while contributing to quality of life improvements.

The Walk DVRC Street Basket is a testament to the power of design to transform urban spaces and create a more livable environment. By combining mobility, sustainability, and functionality, Vicky Chan and his team have successfully turned a congested street into a vibrant park and walkway, enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors alike.