Project Overview

Tai Kwun is the Centre for Heritage and Arts, a place of inspiration, stimulation and enjoyment for all Hong Kong people. Tai Kwun aspires to offer the best heritage and arts experiences, and to cultivate knowledge and appreciation of contemporary art, performing arts and history in the community.

It is situated in the restored Central Police Station compound, one of the most significant revitalisation projects in Hong Kong, comprising three declared monuments—the former Central Police Station, Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison.

Project Commissioner

The Government of the Hong Kong SAR, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust

 

Project Creator

Herzog & de Neuron, Purcell, Rocco Design Architects

Project Brief

The revitalisation project has been led by The Hong Kong Jockey Club in partnership with the Government of the Hong Kong SAR. Tai Kwun is the trading name of the Jockey Club CPS Limited, the not-for-profit operator set up by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust to manage the revitalised site.

The highest standards of heritage conservation have been applied at Tai Kwun, with unfailing attention to authenticity, bringing more than a dozen historic buildings to life. In contrast to their original functions as police station, courthouse and prison, the buildings are now fully on display, giving the public the chance to appreciate up close their contrasting architectural features and fine design details.

Visitors will be immersed in the rich heritage of the unique historical compound through interactive tours, heritage storytelling spaces, diverse education programmes and thematic heritage exhibitions. These programmes offer insights into the history of our city and the role of law and order in our society contributing to Hong Kong’s distinctive character as a major world city.

Project Innovation/Need

The new building, JC Contemporary, houses a not-for-profit art centre dedicated to presenting contemporary art exhibitions and programmes as a platform for a flourishing cultural discourse in Hong Kong. It hosts six to eight exhibitions annually alongside extensive public programmes.

Tai Kwun’s performing arts programmes aim to bring to life the many remarkable spaces both indoors and outdoors through events which have been designed and tailored to suit these unique venues. JC Cube, the Laundry Steps, the Prison Yard and the Parade Ground will become performance spaces for theatre, music, dance and film, with a wide range of programming to appeal to all audiences.

Tai Kwun also beckons visitors to enjoy an array of lifestyle offerings. The wide-ranging culinary landscape allows visitors to choose between light refreshments or fine dining, while retail shops offer the finest selections of curated books, gifts and apparel. Engaging programmes and workshops will also be hosted to echo the rich heritage and energetic contemporary programme offerings at Tai Kwun.