Infill as catalyst for vivid urban fabric formation – A study on increasing walk-ability in Hong Kong

Abstract

By envisioning Hong Kong as a city formed by fractals, the pattern of old districts are examined, and the urban elements which moderate the problems of mega-development and high density living are identified. The study focuses on exploring the impact of infill to generate city form under the aspects of perforated and crinkled fractals, scale moderation, functional diversity and unfolded functions inside-out. A pattern measure is adopted to study the psychological responses of archetypal spaces in the urban fabric of one study district. Although the role of infill and lanes to enhance an ‘exciting’ urban fabric is not obvious, infill can be seen to work as a catalyst to create a vivid city fabric in many aspects – scale, diversity and walk-ability. The findings about the smallest fractal scale – infill, may trigger our exploration into new architecture which engages sustainable urban development and involves inclusion of multi-layer fractals instead of creating monochromatic mega structures of retail and residential projects. The focus of urban design should shift towards the creation of qualities that create vibrant neighbourhoods and contribute to a successful world city that evolves and maintains its attractiveness through time.