The Beacon: A Modern Interpretation of Traditional Hong Kong Architecture

Aedas' Award-Winning Design Marries Functionality and Aesthetics

The Beacon's design is a testament to Aedas' innovative approach to architecture. The building's facade, inspired by the iron balconies that have become a part of Mongkok's streetscape, is a modern reinterpretation of these structures within statutory requirements. The irregular protrusions of the building not only create unobstructed views for each occupant but also serve as a visual reminder of the city's architectural history.

However, The Beacon is not just about aesthetics; it also addresses the need for green spaces in urban areas. Historically, many balconies in Hong Kong were filled with plants, serving as personal gardens in the sky. Borrowing from this concept, a green wall seemingly protrudes from the solid parts of the building's podium, enhancing the quality of life for the neighborhood and occupants by increasing the provision of greenery at a pedestrian level.

The building also contributes positively to the neighborhood by setting back from the street, allowing more opportunities for the introduction of planting. This setback relieves some of the congestion in the area, replacing it with greenery and transforming the outdoor landscape area into an urban backdrop for public areas of the project.

The Beacon, which covers an area of about 614m2 and consists of 128 rooms, retail, and a clubhouse, is a testament to Aedas' commitment to innovative design that respects the context in which it is situated. The design process, which started in January 2012 and was completed in April 2017, was a careful balance of creative, technical, and research challenges.

For its innovative design and positive contribution to the neighborhood, The Beacon was awarded the Golden A' Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award in 2018. The award is granted to marvelous, outstanding, and trendsetting creations that reflect the designer's prodigy and wisdom, embodying extraordinary excellence and significantly impacting the world with their desirable characteristics.