Alicja Kwade: Waiting Pavilions

Alicja Kwade Waiting Pavilions is an art installation that includes six glass box sculptures created by artist Alicja Kwade. The striking installations, constructed from glass bricks bonded with structural glue, form transparent, prison cell-inspired structures across the Prison Yard, reflecting Tai Kwun’s past as the Victoria Prison.

The glue, an unusual bonding material from a local perspective, was tested to withstand Hong Kong’s humid, hot, and UV-prone environment, while the structure itself was engineered to endure typhoon loads. Securing local authorities approval posed significant challenges, necessitating extensive testing, structural justifications and innovative solutions to meet safety standards without compromising the delicate aesthetic. Visitors are consistently captivated by the reflective beauty and subtle historical references, seamlessly integrated into Tai Kwun’s historic setting.

In collaboration with Alicja Kwade and her team, our engineers devised a hidden stability system, unconventional by Hong Kong standards, that preserves the sculptures’ ethereal transparency, keeping the focus on their interplay of light and form. This system, paired with the pioneering use of glass bricks and glue, marks a bold departure from traditional methods, showcasing the team’s ability to adapt and innovate for unique conditions.

Dominykas Ratkevicius, Principal Structural Engineer, shared “This project exemplifies our leadership in structural engineering as we push boundaries through innovative materials and techniques designed to address local challenges. Our goal is to create inspiring structures that not only elevate artistic vision but also remain resilient against environmental elements.”