The Placemakers of Hong Kong

The Placemakers of Hong Kong pays homage to what local development companies, charitable organizations, as well as the government have been able to achieve in contributing to the enhancement of Hong Kong’s evolving urban and rural landscape. Far from being solely profit-driven, developers and urban planners have been vital to the community by creating and designing urban spaces for the public, increasing walkability, and embracing sustainable design—a process called ‘placemaking’. The book also recognizes that just as important are the subsequent placekeeping activities necessary to keep each project site relevant and up-to-date. Featuring five case studies from the past and one that examines the ambitious and far-reaching plans for the Northern Metropolis, this book tells the story of Hong Kong’s miraculous urban development over the past few decades.

Roger Nissim, FRICS, FHKIS, RPS, has been a surveyor in Hong Kong for over fifty years, where he worked in the Lands Department of the Hong Kong Government and in the private sector. He also taught as an adjunct professor in the Department of Real Estate of the University of Hong Kong.Nelson Chen, FAIA, FRIBA, FHKIA, is an award-winning architect and founding principal of Nelson Chen Architects Ltd. He has served in several academic positions at the Chinese University of Hong Kong including professor of practice and director of the School of Architecture.

HKUP 2025 Catalog