Central Police Station Compound
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Dating from 1841, the Central Police Station has a rich history of more than 150 years. In its heyday it was the headquarters of the Hong Kong Police, the central magistrates’ court, and the main prison for colony. Following the decommissioning of the site in 2006, we were appointed as Conservation Architect to work with Concept Architects Herzog & de Meuron to conserve and revitalise the site to secure its future.
Our practice’s experienced architects and researchers carried out a thorough investigation of the site’s history and cultural significance so that proposals for change could be developed with a sound understanding of what makes the site special, and what may be done to ensure its survival for the benefit of future generations.
- Conservation
- Heritage Consultancy
- Masterplanning
- Regeneration
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Research showed that the early prison buildings were based on models used in the UK and North America. When built, it would have been one of the largest and most distinctive buildings in Hong Kong.
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A key feature of the site is its “fortress-like” quality which we examined in our research. The plans for new uses need to create routes through the site without compromising this characteristic.
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The townscape of the site is in stark contrast to its surroundings and one that is revered by the public. Consultation on many levels has been a key part of our work.
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The spaces, particularly in Hong Kong, are as precious as the buildings. How these are used, including the parade ground, and what this means for future uses, has been a major consideration.
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Built with concrete floors and granite stairs, the Police Headquarters has been identified for commercial use. In all cases, the policy has been to allow the buildings to inform the use.
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Outwardly imposing, and designed to assert authority, the Central Magistracy is a substantial, set-piece example of colonial architecture.
The complex interior planning has enabled us to provide a mixed commercial and community use without compromising either function.
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We have focused on developing an understanding of the site’s character through historical analysis. This has informed the new uses that, together with detailed proposals for sensitive repairs, will reveal the site’s significance to visitors.