Tai Kwun wins RIBA International Award

22 July 2021

The Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts has won a 2021 RIBA International Award for Excellence — the latest in a long line of accolades for the landmark project.

The RIBA global architecture awards champion buildings that change the world - presented to exceptionally designed, socially significant buildings outside of the UK, the prize is Purcell’s first RIBA International Award.

The awards champion buildings which stretch the boundaries of architecture and change the world.

Purcell and its HK team are thrilled to have received such appropriate recognition from the RIBA for our contribution to this unique and complex project. 

Our conservation planning that helped define the revitalisation proposals for this iconic former Central Police Station Compound in the bustling heart of Hong Kong Island have instilled a degree of confidence that Hong Kong can deliver conservation led projects on an international level.

— Steve Phillips, Associate Partner

Judged by a panel of international experts, the award champions the project’s Masterplan and conservation efforts, where Purcell have transformed the former Central Police Station Compound through the comprehensive conservation planning and revitalisation of its 16 historical buildings and open spaces.

Its success is thanks to the collaborative team approach between Purcell’s own team of experts, partner designers and consultants and the client, The Hong Kong Jockey Club.

The 2021 RIBA International Award for Excellence follows the recent receipt of the 2020 Quality Building Awards Grand Award in the Hong Kong Building (Renovation/Revitalisation) category and the Award of Excellence from the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation 2019.