RIBA's Executive Director of Products and Service, Karen Beamish has demonstrated its commitment to deliver an effective commercial strategy in the region during her visit to Hong Kong.
Karen, along with two other members of the RIBA team, Po Fung, Director of Strategic Market Development, Asia and Wendy Leung, Membership Experience Manager, Asia met with the British Consulate Department for Business and Trade, the British Chamber of Commerce, Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the Hong Kong Institute of Urban Design, the Hong Kong Green Building Council, the Hong Kong Design Centre, and the American Institute of Architects to discuss collaborations on publishing, training, and partnership to create value for our members and the society in order to deliver better building and places.
"RIBA is committed to working with industry members to demonstrate our commitment to the local communities to support initiatives to promote architectural excellence," said Karen.
Many organisations expressed their willingness to collaborate with RIBA to organise joint events and promote knowledge sharing.
During the visit, Karen also paid visit to Arup and Taylor & Francis to discuss specific projects and areas for future collaboration.
RIBA Hong Kong chapter hosting The Henderson building tour
RIBA Hong Kong chapter recently hosted an engaging and insightful architectural tour of The Henderson, led by Wendy Leung. The event was part of RIBA’s ongoing commitment to connect members with landmark projects shaping the built environment in the region. The tour offered exclusive access to the building’s design and development journey, featuring expert commentary from Sara Klomps, Director at Zaha Hadid Architects, and Vincent Yeung, Project Manager at Henderson Land Development.
The Henderson, a future-oriented and eco-friendly workplace, is a new architectural marvel in Hong Kong, described as "an icon amongst icons." by façade construction specialists Seele. Crafted by Zaha Hadid Architects, this structure spans 465,000 square feet across 36 levels. The tower, which emphasises harmony with nature, acts as an urban sanctuary in the Central Business District, fostering green areas and enhancing the local air quality. With its passive design and cutting-edge features, The Henderson has earned a Platinum LEED rating (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and perfect scores in SmartScore and China Smart Building.
Henderson Land's dedication to sustainability is evident, as they have adopted the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a guiding framework for the building's design and execution. This tour provided exclusive access to the latest high-rise in Central, one of Hong Kong's most coveted commercial properties. The developer and architect showcased the Smart Management and Sustainable Innovations that enabled The Henderson to win green design accolades, further discussing the challenges encountered during its design and construction. Topics that were covered included sustainability, innovative designs, and wellness features in future office buildings.
Throughout the tour, Sara Klomps and Vincent Yeung offered an insightful walkthrough of The Henderson’s architectural vision, construction methods, and design approach. They explained how the building’s fluid forms, innovative materials, and spatial planning reflect Zaha Hadid Architects’ signature style while meeting the needs of a modern commercial tower.
RIBA Members gained valuable insight into how design, sustainability, and urban context were integrated to create a visually striking and human-centric space. Highlights like the Sky Garden and Art Garden showcased how light, geometry, and greenery can elevate the everyday experience.
RIBA Hong Kong Chapter's Summer happy hour
During Karen's trip, RIBA Hong Kong Chapter also hosted a vibrant Summer Happy Hour Networking Event, bringing together RIBA members for an evening of connection and conversation. The event provided a relaxed setting for members to catch up, exchange ideas, and strengthen professional ties. We were pleased to hear from Wendy Leung and Karen Beamish, who shared updates on RIBA’s regional engagement and global initiatives.
We also heard from members of the RIBA Hong Kong Chapter Committee, who reflected on recent activities and shared that they have an exciting and robust activity plan in the works for the coming months. The evening was a great reminder of the strength and vibrancy of our local RIBA community.
Learn more about RIBA Hong Kong Chapter's committee.
