HKDI Students Explore Chengdu: Walking into the Historical Context of Chinese Architecture

In March 2026, the timeless streets of Chengdu became a living classroom for 44 aspiring architectural design students from the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI).  Thanks to the generous sponsorship of the Tin Ka Ping Foundation, students from the Higher Diploma in Architectural Design programme embarked on the "Chengdu Architecture and Cultural Heritage Study Trip" trading textbooks for tangible encounters with China's architectural legacy.

The journey began at Huanglongxi Ancient Town, where students sketched and measured traditional timber-frame structures, uncovering the ingenious craftsmanship and wisdom of ancient builders.  They then explored Anren Ancient Town, examining the unique fusion of Chinese and Western styles in Republican-era mansions, and visited the Jianchuan Museum, a contemporary intervention by architect Liu Jiakun, that thoughtfully dialogues with its historic surroundings. 

A highlight was experiencing West Village – Basis Yard, Liu Jiakun's 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize winning-project, students observed how the modern architectural language can respectfully engage with traditional community and spatial contexts, sparkling reflections on the balance between innovation and cultural continuity. 

Beyond grand structures, the trip also highlighted human-scale design.  In the Yulin Alley Neighborhood, students met local architects from Yiiie Architects to discuss how subtle, community-led renewal initiatives can revitalize community life, proving that impactful design often starts at the neighborhood level.

This immersive experience turned theoretical knowledge into visceral understanding.  Students not only saw architecture, but felt its scale, atmosphere, and story.  By walking through history and engaging with spaces both old and new, students gathered academic insight, profound cultural appreciation and fresh design inspiration.  View the study trip highlights here.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the Tin Ka Ping Foundation for making this invaluable learning journey possible, helping shape the next generation of culturally conscious architects.

The sketch works completed by students during the study trip will be exhibited from 27 to 31 May 2026 at Room C002, G/F, Tower C, HKDI. All are welcome to visit.