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HK x UR: Central Market x Revitalisation
By Matthew H.
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Central Market: A Beacon of Revitalisation in Sustainable Urban Development
The concept of revitalisation in sustainable urban development involves breathing new life into existing structures while preserving their historical and cultural significance. Central Market in Hong Kong stands as a prime example of this approach, demonstrating how a historical building can be transformed into a vibrant public space that serves modern needs while honouring its heritage.
"Rehabilitation," which is closely aligned with the concept of revitalization in the context of historic buildings, is defined by the U.S. National Park Service as "... an efficient use while preserving those portions and features of the building and its site and environment which are significant to its historic, architectural, and cultural values" (National Park Service, 1990, §67.2). This process goes beyond mere preservation; it involves adapting historical structures to contemporary uses while maintaining their architectural integrity and cultural significance.
Old Hong Kong Red Lights being used at the entrance of Central Market
Credit: Self-taken image in 2021 when visiting Central Market
Large terrazzo staircases, one of the defining elements of Central Market’s Bauhaus architectural style being restored to its Shanghai Plaster finish (Source: Central Market)
Credit: Self-taken image in 2021 when visiting Central Market
The recent news about Central Market achieving a 100% occupancy rate two years after its reopening is a testament to the success of this revitalisation project. This achievement is particularly noteworthy given the challenges faced by the retail sector in recent years. The market's ability to attract over 26 million visitors and host more than 1,600 community events in just two years demonstrates its renewed relevance and vitality in the heart of Hong Kong.
Established in 1842 as Hong Kong's first market, it has undergone several transformations over the years. The current building, constructed in 1939, is the fourth generation of the market and an exemplar of the Streamline Moderne architectural style. This historical context adds depth to the revitalisation project, highlighting the challenge of preserving a structure with such a long-standing legacy while adapting it for modern use.
The market's evolution reflects Hong Kong's own development. From its origins serving the needs of early British colonists and Chinese traders to its role in feeding the growing population during the Taiping Rebellion, and later becoming a central hub in Hong Kong's bustling core, Central Market has always been at the heart of the city's story. Its closure in 2003 marked the end of an era, but its recent revitalisation has given it a new chapter in Hong Kong's ongoing narrative.
Source: Central Market. CHINACHEM Group and Urban Renewal Authority.
Credit: Self-taken image in 2024 when again visiting Central Market
As someone who has personally visited Central Market, I can attest to its successful transformation. The building retains its strong architectural language, with its Bauhaus architectural style still evident, serving as a tangible link to Hong Kong's past. Yet, within this historical shell, a diverse array of modern amenities and experiences awaits visitors. From local startup brands to traditional Hong Kong establishments, luxury Japanese sushi bars to Vietnamese eateries, the market embraces a multicultural ethos that reflects Hong Kong's cosmopolitan character.
This diversity is a key indicator of successful revitalisation, as noted by Dr Mee Kam Ng, who argues that "Sustainable urban regeneration should be 'people-centred' and concerned about 'place-making'" (Ng, 2001, p. 1). Central Market achieves this by offering something for everyone, from locals to tourists, young to old, creating a truly inclusive public space.
A critical aspect of Central Market's success lies in its seamless integration with the surrounding urban fabric. The market forms an integral part of Central's pedestrian network, connected to nearby buildings like the Hang Seng Bank headquarters via elevated walkways and serving as the starting point of the Central to Mid-Levels Escalator system. This exceptional connectivity exemplifies what Gehl (2010) describes as creating "cities for people," where urban spaces facilitate human interaction and movement.
By integrating with various urban systems, from pedestrian networks to public transport, Central Market has become an essential part of the community's daily life, ensuring the revitalized space doesn't exist in isolation but thrives as a central hub in Hong Kong's urban core.
A Map of the Central to Mid-Levels escalator and Walkway System with
the Central Market on the Top Right, at the beginning of the system
Source: Trip Provider
The market's focus on sustainability and community engagement aligns with contemporary urban development goals. The incorporation of upcycling initiatives, cultural heritage programs, and events promoting social inclusion showcases a holistic approach to revitalisation that goes beyond mere physical restoration. This multifaceted approach ensures that Central Market is not just a shopping destination but a community hub that fosters social interaction and cultural exchange.
The public-private partnership model employed in managing the Central Market is another noteworthy aspect. This collaborative approach, as mentioned by Yung et al. (2017), balanced conservation and development is more effective than traditional government-led approaches. The success of this model at Central Market could serve as a blueprint for future revitalisation projects in Hong Kong and beyond.
Bamboo Trees as Urban Greenery in the Middle of Central Market
Credit: Self-taken image in 2024 when again visiting Central Market
Central Market exemplifies how revitalisation can breathe new life into historical structures while preserving their cultural significance. Its transformation from a traditional marketplace to a modern, multifunctional public space demonstrates the potential of adaptive reuse in sustainable urban development.
As cities worldwide grapple with balancing preservation and progress, Central Market stands as a shining example of how the two can coexist harmoniously, creating spaces that honour the past while serving the needs of the present and future.
Urban Renewal.
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Hong Kong Edition.
Citations:
Cheng, K. (2023, August 18). 中環街市 出租率100% [Central Market occupancy rate 100%]. CAPITAL.
Central Market. (2024). ChinaChem Group and Urban Renewal Authority.
