Redefining the Hong Kong Harbor

This iconic new civic space demonstrates the power of landscapes to restore lost connections, transform perceptions and promote civic engagement.

The design of the Tamar Redevelopment Project provided an opportunity to create a unique public open space for Hong Kong’s citizens. The Tamar site occupies a prominent location within the city’s central business district. It also anchors a new Central Waterfront open space system that reconnects the city with the historic Victoria Harbour and the mountains that provide an iconic backdrop for the skyline.

After helping to complete a master plan for Hong Kong’s Central Waterfront, HOK was invited to join a team that developed a design scheme for the Central Government Headquarters, which serves as the heart of the plan. The space integrates four facilities of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR): the Chief Executive’s Office, the Central Government Offices, the Legislative Council Complex and the Tamar Park.

Because the building functions as the seat of Hong Kong’s government, the team structured the design around clear, socially relevant design strategies that address public ambitions. The design creates a sense of openness to new ideas and cultures, fostering physical and symbolic connectivity. It is a lush, “people-friendly” area with a variety of open green spaces.

Since opening in 2012, this public green space has become a city-wide destination. It has accommodated events ranging from intimate gatherings beneath the shade trees framing the space to large events that animate the entire lawn.

The Urban Land Institute (ULI) honored Tamark Park with a Global Award for Excellence and the International Federation of Landscape Architects honored it with an Outstanding Award.