Mr. Tam is dedicated to exploring the work-life ecosystem within the knowledge-based economy of the Greater Bay Area. In 2023, as the theme of his postgraduate master's design studio at the School of Architecture, he originated the concept of "Workbitat" to enlighten students on the interconnectedness and importance of the four spheres of "Production, Living, Ecology, and Vitality" within the knowledge economy. "Workbitat" This innovative concept has evolved from his extensive engagement in technology park planning and design projects throughout mainland China, collaborating with officials and clients in diverse economic and high-tech development zones. The design studio specifically delved into the biopharmaceutical industry, guiding students to probe into spatial design principles through the "Advanced Therapy Product Good Manufacturing Practice Centre" to understand the evolving production environments needed in Hong Kong's re-industrialization phase. Significantly, the concept of "Workbitat" embraces the environments aimed to attract, retain, and cultivate talent in this domain. The graduating class of 2023/24 is positioned to be pioneers among architecture master's graduates in Hong Kong, specializing in this innovative sector and typology within the industry.
Mr. Nelson Tam has comprehensive experience in both architectural practice and academia. He has been teaching in ETH Studio Basel, CUHK and practising in Zurich, Basel, Hong Kong and many cities in China over the past 20 years.
In his previous 12 years of practice in China, he developed design expertise in company headquarters campus and science & technology park development. Having completed more than 20 million square meters of projects of the said nature, he concluded a design methodology and was repeatedly invited to share his views in media and journals for the industry.
As a reviewer from practice, Nelson was often invited to take part in design reviews at Southeast University, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Zhejiang University, Beijing Jiaotong University, Beijing Institute of Fashion Technology, Hong Kong Zhuhai College of Higher Education. In 2019, he co-hosted the Studio "Community Reborn" for M.Arch I students in Tongji University.
As an alumnus of the School of Architecture of CUHK, Mr. Tam is committed to contributing to his alma mater and the architectural discipline by sharing his experience and knowhow with our young fellows, helping them to prepare not only for the local realm but also for GBA and global opportunities.