FLT 46

Where Kowloon City’s Past and Future Collide

46 Fuk Lo Tsun Road, Kowloon City (known as FLT 46), once stood at the crossroads of tradition and change. The shadow of the iconic Kowloon Walled City, now vanished, lingered in the memories of the neighbourhood. Yet, the roar of departing Kai Tak jets had faded, replaced by the hum of reinvention. FLT 46, a mixed-use development blending retail spaces and studio apartments, rises from this dynamic tapestry, embracing the essence of Kowloon City while looking towards a vibrant future.

Preserving Kowloon City’s Soul:

FLT 46 isn’t just a building; it’s a conversation starter. Its design deliberately echoes the spirit of Kowloon City, a place synonymous with bustling streetscapes, vibrant neon, and an undeniable sense of community. Rooftop terraces climb the structure, weaving together a network of social spaces where residents from different floors can mingle and connect.

Echoes of a Bygone Era:

Stylized framed windows and balconies harken back to the charm of older Kowloon buildings. Large, eye-catching street signage, a hallmark of the Hong Kong streetscape, adorns the facade, a wink to the neighborhood’s heritage. Even the exposed pipes and structural elements become part of the story, a raw and honest nod to the district’s industrial past.

A Beacon of Modernity:

But FLT 46 isn’t stuck in the past. Vibrant neon accents illuminate the night, a testament to the district’s dynamic spirit. The triangular windows, a striking modern element, pierce the facade, offering glimpses of the bustling life within and injecting a touch of contemporary flair.

Building a Nuanced Future:

FLT 46’s scale and location are carefully chosen. It sits neither too large nor too small, respecting the existing urban fabric while adding a distinctive note. Its presence aims to contribute to a Kowloon City that retains its unique character while embracing the possibilities of the future.

A Tapestry of Stories:

FLT 46 is more than bricks and mortar; it’s a tapestry of stories woven together. It’s the whisper of the Kowloon Walled City mingling with the laughter of rooftop gatherings. It’s the neon glow reflecting on the faces of passersby, each carrying their own tale. It’s a building that stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Kowloon City, a place where the past whispers to the present, and the future unfolds with boundless possibilities.

Further Exploration:

Step inside: Explore the interiors of FLT 46 through virtual tours or detailed photographs, showcasing the blend of modern amenities and Kowloon City-inspired design elements.
Discover the neighborhood: Immerse yourself in the vibrant streets of Kowloon City, visiting nearby markets, temples, and historical landmarks to fully appreciate the context in which FLT 46 exists.
Meet the creators: Connect with the architects and designers behind FLT 46, hear their vision for the project, and learn how they sought to capture the essence of Kowloon City.

By delving deeper into the story of FLT 46, you can gain a richer understanding of its significance not just as a building, but as a symbol of Kowloon City’s resilience and its journey towards a nuanced and vibrant future.

 

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Note:  Project completed in A.Lead Architects Ltd, Hong Kong

Date:
Category:
Location:
Kowloon City, Hong Kong
Status:
Completed (2017)
Involvement:
Conceptual Design, Design Development, Site Administration
Award:
A.Design Award - Iron Award 2019
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