‘optic architecture’ by FAK3, hong kong all images courtesy of FAK3

hong kong-based practice FAK3 has recently completed ‘optic architecture’, a retail and commercial boutique tower in the center of hong kong’s financial district. positioned at an intersection of paths and movement, the corner building changes color between black to white based upon the onlookers vantage point within the city. the existing tong lau building was restored and each of the 5-story elevations were surfaced with a smart skin which uses optical structures to visually interact with passersby.

evenly spaced vertical fins are shaded black on one side and white on the other projecting the structure as entirely black or white from extreme angles and intermediary shades of gray from adjacent locations. the exterior unpredictably projects itself as either entirely black of white depending upon your viewpoint. window openings decrease in size as they rise through the facade to allow clear views of the product contained inside from the street. beveled frames and integrated LED lights illuminate the windows, highlighting their proportions and placement at night.

FAK3: optic architecture building appears black

FAK3: optic architecture building looks black when viewing the corner

FAK3: optic architecture black and white qualities are revealed at the same time

FAK3: optic architecture white facade

FAK3: optic architecture building appears white to passersby from this elevated path

FAK3: optic architecture building shifts to black further along the elevated path

FAK3: optic architecture white facade at night

FAK3: optic architecture black facade

FAK3: optic architecture black building

FAK3: optic architecture LED lights illuminate window frames

FAK3: optic architecture within the financial district’s context

FAK3: optic architecture (from left to right) floor plan / level 0 floor plan / level 1-4 floor plan / level 5 roof plan

FAK3: optic architecture elevation

FAK3: optic architecture elevation