The Former Fanling Magistracy, built in 1961, is a Grade III historic building selected for Batch III of the Revitalisation Scheme. As the first civic government building in the New Territories, the court ceased operations in 2002 and reopened in 2019 as The HKFYG Leadership Institute.

The Former Fanling Magistracy, with its modest form, became Hong Kong’s most humble courthouse, characterised by terrazzo, wrought iron, and wood, reflecting the craftsmanship and values of its era. Every doorway and corner bears the traces of time and memory. The revitalisation design preserves historical elements such as the grand staircase and cells, balancing the building’s solemnity with the Institute’s vitality, allowing spaces to narrate the past while embracing the future. Once a place of judgment, FFM is now a cradle for nurturing leaders.

Wooden screens reinterpret metal railings, library shelving echoes the original wooden ceilings, with original materials harmonising with modern design language to compose a new chapter. The spatial design strives to restore the transparency lost through multiple renovations, carefully calibrating light and shadow, allowing the historic building to breathe in its new function. The revitalization not only preserves the exterior but also reimagines the building’s spirit, enabling this historic structure to shine in a contemporary context, extending our cultural heritage.

The human-centred revitalisation planning gives new meaning to historic spaces. The once-separated circulation routes for the public, prisoners, and judicial staff are now transformed into cohesive conservation interpretation paths, complementing the Institute’s educational mission. Three of the four cells are transformed into mixed reality workshops, while one preserves its original appearance to tell history. Court No. 1 has become a digital debate chamber, and former offices have transformed into M21 media studios. Each spatial reconfiguration provides tailored venues for nurturing future leaders, and inspirational places for sustainable development, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit.