When talking about architecture, one would probably think of various kinds of buildings. Yet, there is a genre that is widely celebrated for its subtle presence. Like the natural environment, everything within it co-exists in perfect harmony. Regarding their difference, seasoned landscape designer Albert Cheng puts it well, “The former is like a sharp corner, whereas the latter a rounded one.” 

Hygge is a Danish word for cosiness that engenders comfort and contentment by doing simple things, like chatting and enjoying good food with families or friends by the fireplace. It has become an ideal lifestyle embraced by many people. “Human beings are constantly looking for something good and beautiful,” says Kevin Leung, Associate Director of BTR Workshop. “Good interior design can enrich our feelings, creating a pleasant and comfortable living experience.” 

Strolling along Argyle Street towards Ho Man Tin from the hustle and bustle of Mong Kok, I find peace as my eyes meet the 80-plus-year-old CLP clock tower. Research has shown that visiting heritage buildings can promote positive emotions, and I have just experienced this firsthand. 

Stand in the street and look around you. The likelihood is that eight of every ten buildings you see, will still be standing in 2050. This is significant, because that’s the year targeted by Hong Kong to reach net zero carbon emissions. And many of the legacy buildings in our cityscape were never designed with energy efficiency in mind. Therefore, retrofitting them to perform better is becoming a priority.

A group of virile actors and gorgeous actresses, in full costume and headdresses, is getting ready on stage at the Xiqu Centre for the all-time classic Romance of the Phoenix Chamber. While it may appear like a typical performance, a closer look reveals something unconventional: all the performers are adorable kids. “If we are to breathe new life into Cantonese opera, they are the key,” stresses Ivy Fong, Chairlady of Sing Fai Cantonese Opera Promotion Association. 

On being shown a photograph of an elegant but simply constructed footbridge spanning a river in the Gansu province of China, I happened to remark on how beautiful the design was. 

Standing in front of a mural at Cho Yiu Chuen are groups of youngsters, who are deeply absorbed in a guided tour hosted by the Hong Kong Arts Centre. Among them is a duo interacting like siblings – the lady takes random snapshots of the younger student as they engage in a serious discussion about the artwork. Surprisingly, today is only the second time they have met. 

“Let’s eat!” is a phrase that Ho Hin-bon, Supervisor of To Kwa Wan Community Living Room, hears daily at his workplace. “Members enjoy casual chats over meals at the dining room, sharing the food they freshly- prepared here. This sense of neighbourhood is what we most expect,” he says, agreed upon by Angela Wun, Senior Section Manager (Service Development) of Tung Wah Group of Hospitals (TWGHs), who remarks, “They feel happier as their lives being enriched.”