MIXING BRAINS AND BRAWN

Described by the architects as, “Located along the main pedestrian promenade connecting cultural and educational facilities with Yuen Long Park and surrounded by residential developments, the new building is conceived to be of complementary nature - yet, a contribution of stimulating contemporary civic architecture with a distinguished new silhouette and a landmark in the neighborhood.”

Yuen Long District Library and Indoor Recreation Center combine two floors of children's and adult lending library with two floors of indoor recreational facilities like table tennis, gym, multi-functional fitness rooms, and a double basketball and badminton sports hall. With 1500 seats for spectators it can host citywide tournaments. These rather contradictory functions are separated by a book reserve storage facility on the intermediate floor.

The design has given particular consideration to the impact the new building has on its residential neighbourhood most closely abutting the site. The building's curvature and vertical differentiation softens the bulk of its considerable presence and the elliptical shape allows for continued view corridors for the residential buildings and excellent conditions for ventilation.

The precise placement on site, the cantilevers, the tilt and orientation of the building tiers, the entrances and internal circulation allow the internal functions to radiate outward and engage with the tree-lined generous entrance plaza. Foyers and study halls interact visually with the surroundings in reciprocal ways. It is a joy to see how immediately the building has been adopted after its opening and how it has instantly become a vibrant meeting place. ,