Po Leung Kuk Museum

  1. Home
  2. Our Services
  3. Po Leung Kuk Museum
  4. Po Leung Heritage
  5. Po Leung Architecture
  6. Main Building
Donate Now!
中座大樓近照

 

 

Main Building

Built in 1932

 

 

  • The Main Building is built with Neo-Classical architectural style.

  • The dome on top of the building is a symbol of power and public authority, representing the broad public acceptance and support enjoyed by Po Leung Kuk.

  • In 1950s, a portico was constructed to the main entrance for sheltering people from the elements. The architectural concept can be traced back to Ancient Rome and was often found in designs of temples and public buildings.

  • The columns are modelled after western classical architectural features, but also feature inscribed couplets from Chinese culture.

  • The Main Building was designed by Mr. IU Tak-chung, one of the earliest Chinese modern architects in Hong Kong and director of Po Leung Kuk. The building is one of his final designs in his career.

  • A graduate from the Hong Kong University, Mr. Iu and Mr. John Caer Clark formed Clark & Iu architects firm, and participated in the Tung Wah Eastern Hospital’s design. Mr. Iu, aged 37, passed away in 1933 due to sudden illness. 

 

The opening ceremony of the Main Building in 1932 was attended by many dignitaries of Hong Kong. Lady Peel, wife of then Governor Peel, presided over the ceremony as officiating guest and formally declare the building in service.
A photo of Main Building before the early 1950s. The photo was taken before the portico was added to the front entrance.
Main Building in the 1950s. A 4-storey building seen on the left of image was constructed in 1956 for nursery and dormitory for women.

 

Return to Po Leung Architecture