The “Urban density” question in Hong Kong: From absolute space to social processes

Urban density has been the focus of attention in urban agenda. Being a typical high-density city, Hong Kong is chosen as case study to review the conceptualization of urban density question. Oversimplification of density as physical and technical construct has overlooked the multi-dimensional nature of density. There is a need to reconceptualise urban density beyond technical and absolute space so as to better understand its diverse meanings and implications by situating it in a wider urban settings and processes. Using the case of Sham Shui Po, one of the densest districts in Hong Kong, this paper highlights the need for a new research agenda which calls for reinterpretation of urban density in processes.