d+a | Issue 127 • 2023

40 design and architecture #127 institutional Curved, gold aluminium panels, for instance, were used for the façade, echoing the design of the museum in Beijing and creating the effect of glazed tiles. “And as HKPM is right by the harbour it’s at risk of surface corrosion due to airborne pollutants,” Hai adds. “To protect the structure and make it more durable, we imported industrial-grade weathering steel from Japan and used this as cladding for the building. Inside, a light-grey, glass-reinforced gypsum screen was used to define the three connected atriums.” challenges met and overcome The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in delays in the production and delivery of building materials. The team also had to deal with shortages of aggregate, concrete and other essential components. Fortunately, once production and delivery resumed, the team was able to catch up with the construction. The façade created an additional challenge too. Says Hai: “The façade cladding system consisted of more than 4,000 panels, all in different shapes, patterns and curvatures. There were also over 20,000 supporting components, all varying in size and length.” “To overcome the difficulty with fabrication and installation, our team incorporated digital design and building information modelling throughout the design, fabrication and installation phases, to minimise defects, improve accuracy and efficiency, and ensure quality visual effects,” he explains. After five years in the making, the result is a world-class museum that leverages new technology to connect the past and the present. This landmark with a strong architectural presence is poised to offer its audience a modern interpretation of Chinese culture. (Below) The seating and rest areas are where visitors can look out to views of the waterfront. (Facing page from top) HKPM houses ancient national treasures from the Beijing Palace Museum; The Forbidden City’s signature crimson red features in various parts of the museum. freddie hai Director, Rocco Design Architects (RDA)