In the world of towering skyscrapers and iconic buildings, finding an architectural firm that stands out can be tough. Leigh & Orange Architects have set their mark with a rich history dating back to 1874.
This blog will dive into how they mix tradition with cutting-edge innovation to shape our skylines. Keep reading to uncover their secrets!
Key Takeaways
- Leigh & Orange Architects began in 1874 and are known for blending cultural heritage with innovative, sustainable design.
- The firm has won several ISO certifications and awards for quality management, environmental care, and safety in construction.
- Their portfolio includes landmark projects like the Run Run Shaw Creative Media Centre, Kai Tak Sports Park, and Hefei No. 45 Middle School Fu Rong Campus.
- Leigh & Orange designs prioritize energy efficiency by using smart technology and renewable resources.
- Their global presence covers Hong Kong, China, the Middle East focusing on sectors such as education, healthcare, transportation, and hospitality.
Company Profile
Leigh & Orange Architects has a storied past that stretches back to 1874, steeped in a tradition of integrating cultural heritage with contemporary design across an international stage.
With their global presence, they bring localized expertise and forward-thinking innovation to projects spanning various continents and sectors.
History
Leigh & Orange started shaping skylines in 1874. Nearly a century and a half ago, this firm laid its foundation in the bustling city of Hong Kong. They have since mastered the art of building unique spaces across various sectors: high-rise towers, shopping malls, hospitals, sports arenas and even metro stations.
Their projects reach far beyond Hong Kong. In China and the Middle East, their blueprints turn into reality with precision and flair. They lead their field by sticking to rigorous standards for quality buildings that are safe for people and kind to our planet.
This commitment has stood unwavering through time as they continue to blend innovation with sustainability in every design.
Global presence and expertise
Leigh & Orange Architects (L&O) have set up a strong global network. Their offices span China, Hong Kong, and the Middle East. With 150 years of history, they bring deep industry expertise to every project.
L&O focuses on delivering top-notch work in education, healthcare, hospitality, and transportation.
Their worldwide operations are known for innovative designs that care for the environment. As experts in environmental sustainability, their buildings save energy and protect nature.
The firm follows strict quality management systems certified under ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001.
Let's delve into L&O's architectural philosophy next.
Architectural Philosophy
Leigh & Orange Architects have carved a distinct niche in the realm of design, championing a philosophy that harmonizes aesthetic appeal with environmental responsibility. Their innovative approach weaves sustainability into every project, ensuring each structure stands as a testament to both form and function for future generations.
Design approach
Leigh & Orange architects put people first. They craft spaces where humans feel comfortable, inspired, and connected to their environment. Their team mixes creativity with smart building ideas to make places that last and look amazing.
Think of buildings as living things; that's where their designs start.
Sustainable design principles
Leigh & Orange Architects blend smart technology and ecology in their work. They make buildings that save energy and respect nature. Their designs focus on using materials that are good for the planet.
These architects look to reduce waste and harmful effects on the environment.
Their projects shine because they use renewable energy sources whenever possible. This helps cut down carbon footprints of the buildings they create. Leigh & Orange design with tomorrow in mind, making sure each structure contributes to a healthier world.
Discover how these eco-friendly ideas come to life in Leigh & Orange’s recent projects.
Recent Projects
Leigh & Orange Architects continue to push the boundaries of design with their latest endeavors, showcasing innovation and a commitment to sustainability. Delving into these recent works reveals the firm's dynamic approach to creating spaces that are both functional and transformative.
InnoCell
Representing a milestone in modern urban living, InnoCell at Hong Kong Science Park stands as a testament to the innovative vision of Leigh & Orange. As a pioneering pilot project for high-rise Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) in Hong Kong, this 17-story co-living facility redefines architectural efficiency and sustainability. L&O utilized over 400 factory-assembled modules to create a high-quality smart living environment tailored specifically for the city's top technology talent.
Beyond its structural ingenuity, InnoCell is designed to foster a vibrant community. The building features a distinctive "work-live-play" ecosystem, integrating flexible communal spaces, band rooms, and open-plan working areas that encourage interaction among residents.
By leveraging digital BIM technology and eco-friendly design principles, Leigh & Orange has created a prototype for future housing solutions. InnoCell is not just a residence; it is a forward-thinking response to urban density, showcasing how Leigh & Orange continues to lead the evolution of Hong Kong architecture.
Run Run Shaw Creative Media Centre (CMC)
A striking landmark on the skyline of the City University of Hong Kong, the Run Run Shaw Creative Media Centre (CMC) illustrates the technical mastery of Leigh & Orange.
Serving as the Executive Architect in collaboration with world-renowned Studio Daniel Libeskind, L&O was instrumental in realizing this crystalline masterpiece of deconstructivist architecture. The building is defined by its dramatic, angular geometry and sloping walls, presenting significant structural and spatial challenges that required precise engineering solutions.
Leigh & Orange leveraged advanced 3D modeling and BIM technology to navigate the complex volumetric design, ensuring that the bold aesthetic vision translated into a functional educational hub. Housing cutting-edge laboratories, theaters, and classrooms, the CMC is more than just a visual icon; it is a testament to L&O’s ability to deliver high-complexity projects.
This collaboration highlights the firm’s versatility in bridging conceptual art with rigorous engineering, cementing their reputation as a premier architectural force in Hong Kong.
Let's turn our attention now to other remarkable contributions of this firm in architecture.
Notable Projects
Leigh & Orange Architects have carved their mark in the architectural landscape through a range of seminal works that redefine the built environment. Their portfolio boasts groundbreaking designs, each embodying innovation and sustainability at its core.
Hong Kong Science Park Phase 2
Leigh & Orange Architects proved their skill in creating cutting-edge science and technology spaces with Hong Kong Science Park Phase 2. Their design shines with innovation, meeting high building standards for industrial development.
The science park brings to life the firm's vision of sustainable architecture. It incorporates environmental considerations into every aspect.
Hong Kong Science Park Phase 2 stands as a testament to their dedication to quality and safety protocols. An integrated management system ensures each building within the park meets exacting criteria for quality, environment, and safety.
This project adds to their impressive portfolio of achievements in architectural development across various sectors.
Kai Tak Sports Park
Kai Tak Sports Park shines as a beacon of innovative architecture. Leigh & Orange Architects designed this sprawling complex with sharp attention to sustainable design and energy conservation.
This sports park is not just a place for competition; it's built to boost community development through its diverse recreation facilities.
At the heart of the park, visitors find a world-class equestrian center alongside multi-use game areas. The firm used their vast experience in sports facility design to create spaces that cater to both athletes and families alike.
As architects explore this project, they witness quality construction merging seamlessly with recreational infrastructure, setting new standards in the field.
World Finance Tower
A defining structure in the skyline of Changsha, the World Finance Tower serves as a prime example of Leigh & Orange’s expertise in high-rise commercial architecture. This Grade-A office development is designed to meet the rigorous demands of the international business community, combining striking vertical aesthetics with high-performance functionality.
L&O utilized a sophisticated glass curtain wall system to create a sleek, modern exterior that maximizes natural light while ensuring optimal energy efficiency—a core tenet of the firm’s commitment to sustainable design.
Internally, the tower offers flexible, open-plan floor plates and intelligent building management systems, catering to the evolving needs of multinational tenants. By seamlessly blending corporate luxury with environmental responsibility, the World Finance Tower stands as a landmark of economic growth.
It reinforces Leigh & Orange’s reputation across Mainland China for delivering sophisticated, future-ready skyscrapers that elevate the urban fabric of emerging financial districts.
TVB City
Located in the Tseung Kwan O Industrial Estate, TVB City stands as a monumental achievement in media infrastructure by Leigh & Orange. As the consolidated headquarters for Television Broadcasts Limited, this 110,000-square-meter facility was master-planned to replace the aging Clear Water Bay studios, requiring a highly complex integration of creative, administrative, and industrial functions.
Leigh & Orange delivered a purpose-built solution that supports the rigorous 24/7 demands of the Hong Kong media industry.
The architectural brilliance of TVB City lies in its technical zoning and acoustic engineering. L&O successfully navigated the challenge of placing sound-sensitive recording studios adjacent to heavy production workshops and carpentry areas.
The design features a central spine connecting the iconic office tower with the sprawling drama and variety studios, ensuring operational efficiency. This project remains a definitive case study in broadcast architecture, showcasing Leigh & Orange’s expertise in delivering specialized, large-scale industrial developments.
CEO Office Tower
Situated in the bustling business hub of Beijing, the CEO Office Tower serves as a testament to the commercial architectural prowess of Leigh & Orange. This distinguished development features a dynamic twin-tower configuration—comprising the CEO and COO towers—which creates a commanding presence on the city’s skyline.
Leigh & Orange approached the design with a focus on both aesthetic distinctiveness and environmental performance, utilizing a unique saw-toothed curtain wall system.This innovative façade strategy is not merely decorative; it is precision-engineered to maximize directional views for tenants while providing self-shading to reduce solar heat gain—a hallmark of sustainable office design.
The towers are connected by a functional podium, integrating retail and amenities to support a modern work-life balance. By delivering high-efficiency floor plates and a striking visual identity, the CEO Office Tower highlights Leigh & Orange’s continued success in the competitive Mainland China commercial real estate market.
Awards and Recognitions
Leigh & Orange has been recognized with numerous awards for its innovative architectural projects.
In 2023, the Chung Chi Student Development Complex at the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) received the HKIA Annual Awards Merit Award in the Institutional Building category, signifying the firm's excellence in educational architecture. The same project was also a finalist in the HKIA Annual Awards for Sustainable Architecture, highlighting Leigh & Orange's commitment to environmental sustainability in design. Furthermore, the complex won the 2023 Green Building Award Grand Award in the New Buildings.
Category for Completed Projects – Institutional, underscoring the firm's leadership in green building practices. Another notable project, the Qianhai CTF Finance Tower in Shenzhen, China, was awarded the 2023 Better Future Hong Kong Design Awards Silver Award, showcasing Leigh & Orange's prowess in blending innovative design with functionality in high-rise constructions. These awards reflect Leigh & Orange's dedication to creating impactful, sustainable, and innovative architectural solutions.
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