Transforming a musty Kwun Tong nullah into an ecological & sustainable river park

Revitalization of Tsui Ping River is a one-kilometer-long urban design project, transforming a drab and musty Kwun Tong nullah into an ecologically sustainable Tsui Ping River in Hong Kong.

In the past, this concrete nullah was designed solely for drainage discharge purposes, lacking in ecological value and vitality. Through ecological, landscaping, and environmental upgrading works, the project creates quality public spaces, realizing the vision of “Rivers in the City”.

Enhancing the water body and
cultivating natural habitat in the city

A Smart Water Gate is installed to regulate the water levels during typhoon seasons and prevent the river from drying up during low tides. Ecological devices including bird perches, rock pools, tidal pools, and floating islands are also installed to cultivate the development of an eco-system in the river. The revitalized river has attracted more natural species to inhabit and has enhanced biodiversity.

Creating a “Walkable Kowloon East”

In addition to strengthening flood protection, a key feature of the project is to enhance connectivity of the local pedestrian network including Kwun Tong Business Area, Kwun Tong Promenade and the nearby residential areas to create a “Walkable Kowloon East.” Six cross-river walkways are built to facilitate crossing the river. A floating pontoon installed near King Yip Street offers an all-round energetic near-water experience.

Six landscaped decks spanning across the river are constructed to provide precious riverside open spaces for the public. Two pavilions are constructed at the Engineered Wetland near Tsui Ping Road and the cross-river walkway near King Yip Street to provide shading and act as a great spot for viewing the river.

Bringing people closer to water

The urban design prioritizes smooth circulation with plenty of public seating, creating a welcoming environment for people and communities while bringing them closer to the water. Using thin rods and glass, balustrades are designed to establish visual transparency towards the water. Cantilevered walkways are constructed to widen the existing footpaths along the river section at King Yip Street to improve circulation. Various pocket spaces with public seating and shading are meticulously created along the pedestrian walkways to offer people resting spaces as they journey along the river.

Creating a vibrant and energetic neighborhood

Signage, balustrades, pavilions and thematic manholes were incorporated with energetic color scheme to bring Tsui Ping River’s new branding to life. The pedestrian paving also made use of bricks with colors to match with the new branding. Curves are used in as planters and balustrade design to outline water-like curves and to create subtle visual surprises from afar.

At the tree corridor near King Yip Lane, a lighting art installation the “Wander Rings” which blends art, nature and technology together, is also designed to create a vibrant and dynamic neighborhood. Responsive to viewers’ movement, they unveil the symbol of infinity, evoking limitless possibilities. After sunset, the ambient light show and flowing water create a captivating dance, casting mesmerizing hues upon the river—an enchanting convergence of innovation and artistic expression.

Offering a meditating space

Located under the Kwun Tong Bypass near Tsui Ping Seaside, the Ripples Yard is designed as a rare place for people who wishes to seek meditation and mindfulness within an urban setting. In the form of a labyrinth with a footpath that leads to the center, the Ripples Yard is a unique spot that encourages people to pause and reflect, bringing people closer to their true self amidst the hustle and bustle of city lives. Public workshops, such as garden walk meditation and river walk meditation, are initiated and organized by some non-government organizations from time to time at the Ripples Yard.