Chris Infotainment

A Legacy of Light and Tradition One of the city's most prolific festive light designers recalls his career spent illuminating the Hong Kong skyline. It was December 1990, and he was four years old. Hong Kong then got much colder than it does today, but standing to his mother's right as they took in the Christmas lights, his younger brother to her left, the cold seemed to melt away. Wide-eyed and clutching his mother's hand, he gazed upon the illuminated towers and parapets of a snow-white castle. Angels perched on the battlements, haloes aglow. Fairy lights festooned the winter scene on the waterfront by Harbour City, in Tsim Sha Tsui. Hong Kong's ascent was written in Christmas lights. Mirroring the emergence of a booming economy and a burgeoning middle class, the annual citywide illuminations have marked a tradition for many families in the former British colony since the 1950s. Our own family's ritual had begun in the 60s, when my mother, Clara Chung Lo-ling, w...

A Historical and Cultural Landmark Hiroshima, a city known for its tragic past and resilient spirit, is home to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. This park stands as a symbol of peace and remembrance, marking the site of the atomic bombing that occurred on August 6, 1945. The area, once a bustling urban district, has transformed into a place where people come to honor the victims and reflect on the importance of peace. As visitors enter the park, they pass by the Atomic Bomb Dome, an iconic structure that remains as a reminder of the devastation caused by the bombing. Crossing the Motoyasu Bridge leads them to the Peace Flame and the Cenotaph for the A-bomb Victims on the left. These landmarks serve as powerful symbols of the city's commitment to peace and remembrance. Behind these structures lies the main building of the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, which marks the entrance to the park. The museum, designed by the renowned architect Kenzo Tange (1913-2005), celebrated its ...

A Unique Civic Hall in Kumamoto: A Blend of History and Modern Design Nestled in the city of Kumamoto, located in the southwestern part of Japan, stands a remarkable civic hall that showcases a unique blend of historical inspiration and modern architectural design. The structure's exterior, shaped like a truncated cone, was inspired by the crest of Kato Kiyomasa, a renowned feudal lord from the 16th to 17th century. This design choice not only pays homage to local history but also harmonizes with the nearby Kumamoto Castle, creating a seamless visual connection between past and present. From the vantage point of Kumamoto Castle, one can spot a building that appears to be nestled among other structures, resembling an overturned wooden bucket. This is the Kumamoto Civic Auditorium, affectionately known as "Searshome Yume Hall." The name reflects its role as a space where dreams and cultural expressions come to life. The auditorium was designed by the esteemed architect T...

Daegu City Unveils Winning Design for New City Hall Daegu City has officially announced the winner of its international design competition for the new city hall. The winning entry, titled ‘FORETscape: A Cultural Government Building Embracing the Forest’ , was submitted by a consortium led by Now Dongin Architects Office Co., Ltd. This innovative design has been recognized for its thoughtful integration with the surrounding environment and its commitment to public engagement. The competition attracted 29 domestic and international architectural firms, either as individual participants or in collaborative groups. These submissions resulted in a total of 14 entries that were evaluated by a panel of expert judges. Among these, the winning design stood out for its ability to connect key urban elements such as Gamsam Station, the new city hall, and Duryu Park. The concept also emphasizes efficient land use and the creation of open spaces that are accessible to the public. The proposed str...

A Vision of Innovation and Community in Architecture The RIBA Stirling Prize, Britain’s most prestigious award for architecture, has unveiled its shortlist for 2025. This year’s selection highlights a range of groundbreaking projects that reflect the power of design to transform lives and communities. From reimagining social housing to creating spaces that foster collaboration and creativity, these buildings represent a bold vision for the future. Embracing Diversity and Purpose The shortlisted projects showcase a wide array of ambitions, from improving college life to revitalizing neglected homes into vibrant living spaces. According to RIBA President Chris Williamson, these designs demonstrate how architecture can address some of society's most pressing challenges with creativity, adaptability, and care. He emphasized that each project offers a blueprint for how architecture can enrich society, whether through monumental civic buildings or sensitive restorations of iconic land...

A Timeless Space of Sound and Light In the heart of Tokyo, nestled on the Ookayama Campus of the Institute of Science Tokyo, stands a remarkable auditorium that has withstood the test of time. This 70th Anniversary Auditorium was constructed using cost-effective materials and innovative methods, making it a unique example of architectural ingenuity. Designed by the esteemed architect Yoshiro Taniguchi, known for his work on the Sento Imperial Palace, the structure was completed nearly seven decades ago. The construction of the auditorium was made possible through donations from alumni and staff, which led to the use of affordable materials and resourceful building techniques. The site itself is strategically located on a sloped terrain, allowing the design to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. This integration not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the functional aspects of the space. Architectural Features and Design Elements The auditorium's ...