A Yacht Parking Harbour as a Living and Commercial Sea Hub: A Design Proposal with Administrative Integrity

Abstract

The article critically evaluates a holistic design proposal for a government-initiated yacht parking harbour which integrates typhoon shelter functionality with marine commercial and residential functions. The proposal is based on a technical memo and reflective journal produced through a year and a half of site research and design development; it proposes converting the underutilised waterfronts of Hong Kong into productive ‘living and commercial sea hubs’ as an answer to the twin problems of rising land prices and falling youth participation in marine business. The design includes typhoon-resistant breakwater geometry, smart water metering systems, metered temporary parking planks, co-working spaces and an administrative framework to ensure accountability and revenue generation. The proposal is theorised through Kolb’s experiential learning framework suggesting that live-work arrangements on yachts can stimulate the development of entrepreneurial competency through immersive experiential learning. Against the backdrop of contemporary government projects like the Aberdeen Typhoon Shelter expansion and the Hung Hom waterfront redevelopment, this article argues that the administrative structure provides a replicable model for port cities in Asia, especially Hainan and along the Chinese mainland coast. The paper concludes that the integration of living, working and administrative functions in one marine infrastructure is an innovative typology of marine urbanism that can address pressing socio-economic challenges while creating sustainable public revenue.