Project Mingde, an initiative by students from the University of Hong Kong, began its journey in the serene Hakka village of Duling, nestled in the lush countryside of Guangxi, China. With a population of around 3,000, the community thrives on values of hard work and education. Despite its scenic surroundings and abundant rainfall, the village faced a significant challenge: a lack of access to fresh water. The absence of proper water infrastructure left villagers reliant on limited well water, creating hygiene concerns that particularly affected children.
Addressing Community Needs with Sensitivity
The project aimed to address these challenges while honoring the cultural heritage of the Hakka community. Through a design philosophy rooted in sustainability and respect for tradition, Project Mingde sought to transform Duling into a safer and more supportive environment. By improving infrastructure and creating spaces for learning and connection, the initiative directly addressed the community’s pressing needs.
The first phase focused on renovating the existing school building. Structural reinforcements were made, and an additional roof was added to protect the building from further weather damage. To tackle the pressing hygiene issues, a sustainable toilet facility was introduced, significantly improving sanitation for students and teachers.
A Sustainable Kindergarten and Cultural Center
The second phase of the project involved constructing a new kindergarten and cultural center for the village. The design leveraged the challenge of heavy rainfall, turning it into an asset for addressing water scarcity. Tiered roofs were strategically implemented to collect rainwater, which flows into a lotus pond before being filtered and recycled. This innovative system provides a sustainable source of clean water for the building.
The design of the center was heavily influenced by the site’s natural features, including topography and airflow. The cascading form of the structure not only improves water collection but also integrates with the surrounding environment.
Cultural Significance and Architectural Vision
Inspired by the Hakka tradition, the lotus pond serves as the centerpiece of the cultural center, symbolizing education and renewal. This feature is more than a functional reservoir, it reflects the cultural heritage of the community while reinforcing sustainability in the design.
Interior spaces were created with flexibility and adaptability in mind. Classrooms are designed to connect with outdoor areas, encouraging natural airflow and maintaining thermal comfort. This versatility allows users to adjust the spaces based on their needs. By prioritizing usability and comfort, the design reflects a deep understanding of the community’s requirements.
Strengthening Community Bonds
The impact of Project Mingde led by the University of Hong Kong, goes beyond the physical structures. It represents a deep commitment to fostering connections and transcending cultural barriers. The initiative created spaces that facilitate education, social interaction, and cultural exchange, all while respecting the values of the Hakka community.
Through this work, the project demonstrated how thoughtfully designed environments can nurture strong bonds within a community. By addressing practical needs while remaining sensitive to cultural influences, Project Mingde has strengthened the resilience and well-being of Duling’s villagers.
A Blueprint for Sustainable Development
Project Mingde serves as an inspiring example of how architecture can address pressing challenges while preserving cultural identity. The project highlights the significant impact architecture can have when driven by humanity, compassion, and cultural awareness.
Completion Year: 2024.
Gross Built Area: 500 m²
Program: Educational and Cultural Centre
Lead Architect: Elisabeth Lee
Photo Credits: Jin Weiqi (Macau University of Science and Technology)
