FAK3: optic architecture

‘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.

building appears black

building looks black when viewing the corner

black and white qualities are revealed at the same time

white facade

building appears white to passersby from this elevated path

building shifts to black further along the elevated path

white facade at night

black facade

black building

LED lights illuminate window frames

within the financial district’s context

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

elevation

elevation