Purcell Asia Pacific Celebrate Collaboration and Conservation in Hong Kong

The Australian team arrived on Tuesday, 29 October 2024, and was warmly welcomed by the Hong Kong team at a local taphouse, setting a positive tone for the week. The following day, the teams embarked on a series of exclusive project site visits, showcasing Purcell’s expertise in architecture, masterplanning, conservation, and restoration.

A tour led by Ryan Sun took participants to a Grade 1 historic theatre, where they learned about the intricate process of retaining and restoring the building while preparing it for beneficial modern use. A smaller group then joined Carla Lung for a visit to a private club, featuring several of Purcell’s completed and ongoing projects. Later that day at Tai Kwun, the former Central Police Station Compound, Jack Chui provided fascinating insights into Purcell’s vast conservation efforts, past and present, for this culturally significant site.

On Thursday, the AP teams participated in the much-anticipated Purcell Day Out. The day began with coffee, pastries, and presentations from team members, including Ryan’s update on the HK studios current revitalisation projects, Ella Chan’s reflections on her three-month secondment to the UK, and Linda Mott’s insights from the UK Conservation School.

The group then ventured to Lantau Island, where they climbed over 250 steps to visit the iconic Big Buddha, a bronze statue atop Mount Muk Yue. They continued to Wisdom Path, an installation of wooden columns inscribed with the Heart Sutra, where Jack discussed Purcell’s approach to the ongoing restoration of this cultural landmark. A team lunch at Po Lin Monastery was followed by sunset drinks overlooking Tung Chung Bay and a dinner at XIHE, a restaurant renowned for its Peking Duck pancakes, before returning to accommodations.

The week concluded on Friday with the AP Roadshow. Engaging presentations from the team highlighted the firm’s recent achievements and upcoming projects. Strategic discussions followed, focusing on our regional ambitions, collaboration across markets, and aligning key plans for 2025.  These discussions underscored the regions continued commitment to expanding the firm’s presence and impact in key markets.

The team also focused on the importance of adapting to evolving market demands, with particular attention to strengthening client relationships, embracing emerging technologies, and advancing sustainable practices in every project. A collaborative puzzle challenge added an entertaining element, reinforcing the spirit of teamwork and collaboration that is central to Purcell's approach.

This combination of strategic discussions and team-building activities provided a clear roadmap for the future, ensuring all AP offices are aligned and energised to tackle the opportunities and challenges ahead.