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. 

‘This book presents a wide cross-section of case studies where placemaking has demonstrably contributed to the cohesion and quality of life of the community. With the emergence of a more people-sensitive planning system and partnership between the public and private sectors, Roger Nissim shows that it is possible to create a sense of place even in a challenging urban environment like Hong Kong.’ 

—Nicholas Brooke, GBS, FRICS, FHKIS, Chairman, Professional Property Services Group

‘The author has expanded the meaning of “placemaking” by applying the concept to six very different examples in Hong Kong. His analysis presents and explains how the city’s development process works. This book is useful as reference material, for explaining processes, and as a showcase of the decision-making behind Hong Kong’s development history.’

—Ian Brownlee, Managing Director, Masterplan Limited, Planning and Development Consultants

‘This book is invaluable for anyone interested in the past, present, and future of urban planning and property development. Roger Nissim possesses unparalleled experience in the industry in Hong Kong.’

—Christopher Law, founding director of Oval Partnership