Message from Head

Welcome to the Department of Architecture at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU).

It is my great honour to join this vibrant community and to lead a department that is poised to make a profound impact on the built environment. As we step into a new era of architectural education and research, our vision is to cultivate a world-leading department that not only advances the architectural profession but also addresses the complex challenges of urbanization, sustainability, and digital disruption. 

Our curriculum is designed to nurture well-rounded architectural professionals equipped with a global perspective and a deep understanding of local contexts. Drawing from my experiences in architectural education, heritage conservation, and academic leadership both locally and globally, I believe that architecture sits at the crucial intersection of art, technology, and wider societal needs.

What distinguishes our Department is our engineering-based, data-driven approach to architectural education. We are committed to integrating cutting-edge technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS), into our teaching and research to prepare students for the future of the profession. Our programmes exemplify this forward-thinking vision by equipping students with the skills to harness AI and advanced computational tools in creating innovative, sustainable habitats.

We are committed to fostering an environment where students can cultivate core values in architecture, explore innovative design solutions, and the future. To prepare our students for an ever-changing world, we will actively engage in interdisciplinary research and maintain strong partnerships with the industry and professional bodies. By integrating real-world architectural practices into our teaching, we aim to translate academic knowledge into tangible societal benefits and impactful professional development.

Our students will benefit from exchange programmes, field visits, and hands-on professional training to ensure they graduate with both international insights and practical expertise. Students will be empowered in their education journey in finding their design direction, and technological and professional skillsets. Together with our dedicated faculty, industry partners, and talented students, I look forward to building a collaborative and forward-thinking department.

Visit our website to learn more about our programmes, our research initiatives, and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.

Prof. Puay-peng HO
Head and Chair Professor of Architectural Heritage Conservation
Department of Architecture
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University