HKUST(GZ) Campus Buildings Topping Out

The main structures of all buildings of HKUST(GZ) Phase-I were embracing topping  out on September 26, after more than 300 days and nights of construction work. This marks that the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou) (HKUST(GZ)), the epitome of Guangdong-Hong Kong collaboration and a world-class institution of higher learning, has made a big step forward towards its official opening target in September 2022.

Designed by the internationally renowned architecture firm KPF, the HKUST(GZ) campus is characterized by “smart and green campus”, following the overarching style of HKUST and harmonizing with the natural environment nearby. The design of the gateway courtyard on this campus echoes that on the HKUST campus in Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong, with a semi-circular structure surrounding a red sundial sculpture in the center.

The campus is well connected with the neighborhood thanks to thoughtful layout planning. It is functionally divided into six parts, namely Central Precinct, East Precinct, West Precinct, North Precinct, South-East Precinct, and North-East Precinct. Specifically, the Education & Research Building and Administration Building are located in the Central Precinct, sports venues in the East Precinct, dormitories and high street in the South-East Precinct, and faculty housing in the North Precinct.

The library straddles the central canal, connecting the East and West Precincts. The glass wall design makes it possible for people to see laboratories on the two sides from outside, lifting the veil of science. Between the circulation space and the laboratories is an open space to accommodate large equipment and installations. The green-covered roof offers students an ideal place for outdoor activities on bright and clear days. The top of the laboratories section is covered with photovoltaic panels so that solar energy can be put to use on the campus.

HKUST(GZ) is adjacent to the Qingsheng Station of Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong High-speed Railway, and Sun Hung Kai Qingsheng Hub Complex that integrates a commercial plaza, office buildings and a public transit hub. It is accessible to six rail transit lines including national and intercity railway lines and metro lines, as well as three expressways. A high-speed train trip to Shenzhen takes 21 minutes and that to Hong Kong 35 minutes. It is also just five metro stations away from the Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center.

The HKUST(GZ) Phase-I project covers an area of about 636,000 square meters. It is expected to be completed in March and delivered in May 2022, ready for the university’s official opening in September 2022.