Po Leung Kuk Siu Hon Sum Primary School marks a significant step forward, not just in construction aspect, but in how educational spaces being conceived, delivered and experienced.
This project stands as a pioneering example of applying modular construction to a non-residential building type. By integrating Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) techniques with sustainable design principles and the evolving needs of educational environments, it meets the functional requirements of a modern school while providing flexible, adaptable spaces to support a variety of teaching and learning activities.
Over 160 prefabricated units, over 30% of the building’s CFA — encompassing classrooms, corridors, toilets, and pantry — is constructed using MiC technology. These MiC units were coordinated through BIM and delivered with a high level of precision and quality control. The modular system enabled a reduction of approximately 60% on-site construction time, with all units installed and connected within one and half months.
As the first school in Hong Kong to apply MiC both in classrooms and corridor spaces, the project establishes a cohesive modular system, using standardized units to bring consistency to construction while it allowed functional flexibility in space usage.
Bella Yang, Associate Director of Architecture team at P&T Group, explains:
“When the folding doors are closed, it is a regular, enclosed classroom. But when we open them, the confined space forms a connection with the corridor to become a continuous, open space. The students can have a larger space for multiple activities.”
Each teaching cluster consists of four classrooms, featuring aluminum folding partitions with Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) technology that open onto an internal corridor. This design fosters spatial flexibility to accommodate diverse teaching methods while enhancing interaction between classrooms and activity areas.
This design employs a low-density scheme to spatially integrate learning facilities — classrooms, sports fields, and activity zones — within a compact footprint.
“We placed the school playground on the 2/F terrace. This way, students won’t have to travel several floors down to ground floor for physical exercise,” Bella adds.
At the same time, the project explores how MiC can move beyond efficiency and actively shape architecture. As the first structural MiC school in Hong Kong, the project sets a precedent, not only for higher construction efficiency and better quality controlled, but for a more adaptable, connected and human-centred learning environment.
Alpha Chu, Senior Associate of P&T’s M&E team, describes the MiC system:
“MiC can be understood as a block-like modular construction method. The main structure, M&E installations, exterior and interior finishes or even fixed furniture of the building blocks are prefabricated at the manufacturing factories in mainland China and delivered to the site in Hong Kong, where they are assembled and connected.”
This approach enables better quality control, reduced construction time and lower environmental impact but it also demands a high level of coordination before manufactory.
“Architects, structural and M&E engineers, contractors and MiC manufacturer need to work closely throughout the process in order to turn this project into reality.”
Innovation extended into the structural system itself.
Shawn Chen, Associate of P&T’s Structural team, explains:
“P&T developed a new MiC barrel connection method for the project. The method significantly enhanced installation efficiency and accuracy. The construction process is safer, while also ensuring the safety and stability of the building structure.”
Featuring an architecturally refined design with fair-faced concrete finishes on both interior and exterior facades, it capitalizes on the enhanced quality control afforded by off-site MiC fabrication.
“The fair-faced concrete finish possesses an inherent natural aesthetic, achieved without the application of any decorative finishes materials.” Bella notes.
The building is designed to evolve over time, with changes primarily accommodated through the growth of facade planters. “The school is designed as a space for cultivation and change, reflecting the students’ growth. When we come back to visit the project a few years later, it may reveal a new appearance.” Bella explains.
The project has also been recognised for its contribution to both architecture and construction, receiving the ArchSD Annual Award 2024 - Merit Award, and a Commendation Merit in the HKIE Structural Excellence Award. It is also a Finalist of the HKGBC’s Green Building Award 2025 in the Completed Projects – Institutional category.
A clear demonstration of how MiC can move beyond construction and actively shape architecture.
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