Hong Kong’s Bamboo Marvel Transports Venice to Asia
A Utilitarian Spectacle Captures the Architectural World
Venice’s historic canals now echo with a Hong Kong spirit as an innovative bamboo scaffolding installation transforms a villa courtyard. This striking exhibit, the SAR’s official entry to the Venice Biennale of Architecture, offers a stark, functional beauty.
Craftsmanship Takes Center Stage
Designed by Beau Architects, in collaboration with master scaffolder Choi Wing-kei and the Architecture Land Initiative, the installation envelops the historic villa hosting Hong Kong’s biennale presence. Its utilitarian aesthetic deliberately celebrates local craft.
Director Charlotte Lafont-Hugo expressed the team’s intent: We wanted to celebrate local craft rather than imposing any sort of pretentious architecture. I like the raw, honest aspect of it. It’s a little drop of Hong Kong in Venice.
Identity Woven in Bamboo
The choice of bamboo scaffolding is deeply significant. It’s an integral part of Hong Kong’s cultural fabric, from temporary theatres to vibrant business greetings. Indeed, bamboo construction is still a vital trade for thousands in the city, forming approximately 80 percent of its scaffolding needs. In 2021, over 10,000 registered scaffolders in Hong Kong were practicing the trade, highlighting its economic importance.
Curator Ying Zhou emphasized its importance: It’s part of what makes Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
The exhibition, “Projecting Future Heritage: A Hong Kong Archive,” showcases 33 projects reflecting quintessential Hong Kong environments, from bustling public housing to the unique soundscapes of its streets.