HKU Project Revives Century-Old Cave Dwellings in Henan, Wins International Design Award
AM730 · 1 SOURCESabout 5 hours ago5 MIN
Summary
The University of Hong Kong's Project Ming Tak and Department of Architecture have successfully completed a sustainable rural revitalization initiative at Xiwang Village in Sanmenxia City, Henan Province, breathing new life into centuries-old underground cave dwellings. The project engaged over 140 students alongside local villagers and craftsmen to transform these traditional residences into modern community spaces. Recently honored with the 2026 DFA Asia Design Award Gold Medal, the initiative demonstrates how historical architecture can be revitalized while maintaining cultural heritage.
Key Points
- The project targets traditional "cave dwellings" (地坑院) in Xiwang Village, Sanmenxia City, Henan Province, underground residences carved into the loess plateau
- HKU's Project Ming Tak, founded in 2003 by Prof. Yang Shu-ren and his late wife Yang Gan Yue-zhen, led the initiative with the Department of Architecture
- Three-phase approach: Prof. Lin Junhan conducted historical research; Asst. Prof. Ratoi Lidia introduced robotic 3D printing with rammed earth; Assoc. Prof. Olivier Ottevaere designed tensile structures for public spaces
- Over 140 students from various HKU faculties collaborated with local craftsmen and villagers in planning, design, and construction work
- The project won the 2026 DFA Asia Design Award Gold Medal, gaining international recognition for architectural innovation and community engagement
Why It Matters
This project offers a replicable model for rural revitalization across China's aging villages, showing how traditional architecture can address contemporary needs while preserving cultural identity. For Hong Kong, it demonstrates how local academic expertise can contribute to national rural development goals through sustainable, community-driven approaches .
This project offers a replicable model for rural revitalization across China's aging villages, showing how traditional architecture can address contemporary needs while preserving cultural identity. For Hong Kong, it demonstrates how local academic expertise can contribute to national rural development goals through sustainable, community-driven approaches .