Axis of Connection: The Central Axis Planning
This talk features Dr Stan Lai and Dr Edwin Wu, Associate Professors from the Department of Architecture at Hong Kong Chu Hai College. They will delve into the planning principles, characteristics, and historical context of the Beijing Central Axis, as well as provide an analysis of the transformation of central axis planning embodied in the Forbidden City. They will also examine the axis’s cultural and historical significance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting the philosophy of traditional Chinese architecture.
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Date & Time
08/12/2025 (Mon)
3:00 pm–4:30 pm
Venue
The Hong Kong Jockey Club Auditorium, Hong Kong Palace Museum
Fee
Free
Language
Cantonese
Speaker
Dr Stan Lai
Dr Lai Tung-Yiu Stan, a Hong Kong registered architect and ink painter, is currently the Head and Associate Professor of the Department of Architecture at Hong Kong Chu Hai College. His research focuses on the urban morphology of historic market towns and buildings in Southern China, while also encompassing the history of architecture in Japan, China, and Hong Kong, as well as modern architectural theory, film theory, art history, and sustainable urban design.
In addition to lecturing at universities worldwide, Dr Lai is dedicated to promoting architectural history and culture to the public. He has hosted and appeared as a guest on various radio and online media platforms, including podcasts and talk shows produced by the Radio Television Hong Kong (RTHK).
Dr Edwin Wu
Dr Edwin Wu, who received his PhD in Architectural History and Theory from The University of Hong Kong, is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Architecture at Hong Kong Chu Hai College. His research focuses on the history and theory of traditional Chinese architecture and landscape , as well as cultural sustainability in heritage conservation and the development of architecture, urbanism, and landscape studies in Asia.
Dr Wu is a contributing author to the landscape section of Hong Kong Chronicles: Architecture and Landscape and serves as a mentor for the “Exploring Chinese Culture” Ambassador Programme under the Our Hong Kong Foundation. He is committed to promoting the history and culture of traditional Chinese architecture and landscape to the public.
