H6 CONET

CONET, occupying an area of about 2600 square metres in the CBD, stands for “C”ommunity, “O”pen space and “NET”work while H6 represents the sixth renewal project being initiated by the client, Urban Renewal Authority (URA) on Hong Kong Island. In the implementation of redevelopment project, the place was redesigned not only to retain the original usage of NGO office spaces but also add the elements of offering “places connecting the community and places for the community”. To achieve this, a multi-function space design was adopted to serve different needs to develop community bonding and it opened up the entrances and exits to provide a public shortcut to the six adjoining lanes in the business hub to enhance the accessibility and connectivity. To preserve the characteristics of century-old street, the design was incorporated with a district’s characteristics and cultural landscape to create local characteristics and enhance the community’s sense of belonging. Featuring the ideas rooted from local history, local artists were engaged in the project to create massive murals to showcase the features and history of the six streets. Display panels featuring the history of neighbouring streets were installed both inside and outside H6 CONET to highlight the district’s unique background. In addition to leisure seating, free Wi-Fi service and indoor greening, venues for different events and activities such as cultural and art exhibitions and music performances are also available for community groups and the public to enhance the amenity of community space. Meanwhile, the Urban Renewal Exploration Centre located in H6 CONET was furnished with smart and innovative technology serving as a platform for all level students to learn about the urban renewal and the work of the URA. An integrated solution combining interactive digital presentations with life size mock-up was used to create a fun filled experience and present the complicated urban renewal issues in an interesting way. The retrofitting works successfully transformed the place into a diverse community space which can be shared and enjoyed by the public, offering passers-by a source of stimulation and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the busiest districts.