When Richard Breslin first arrived in Hong Kong through its legendary Kai Tak Airport decades ago, he never imagined returning to transform that iconic site into Asia's newest sports marvel. Now, as design director of the Kai Tak Sports Park, Breslin is crafting what he calls "a living connection between Hong Kong's past and its global future."
More Than Concrete and Steel
Scheduled as a flagship venue for this year's 15th National Games, the HK\$30 billion complex represents Hong Kong's largest-ever sports infrastructure investment. But Breslin's vision extends beyond athletic competitions: "We're creating a 24/7 civic space where sports, culture, and community dialogue intersect."
Architecture as Social Catalyst
The park's design incorporates flexible venues that can transform from Olympic-standard facilities to concert arenas and public recreation spaces. Its retractable roof and modular seating systems allow rapid configuration changes, while green corridors connect the site to surrounding neighborhoods.
Preparing for the National Games
With the 15th National Games underway, the park is currently hosting world-class athletes from across China. However, authorities emphasize that 85% of the facilities will remain publicly accessible post-Games, supporting Hong Kong's long-term sports development goals.
An upcoming documentary, Game On, Kai Tak! – Road to the National Games, chronicles the project's journey from blueprint to reality, showcasing how this architectural marvel is redefining urban space in Asia.
