Housing is a sensitive issue in Hong Kong, one of the world’s least affordable cities, where the government controls land. A new policy targets subdivided flats, aiming to set standards for size and facilities like windows and toilets. Low-income residents worry the policy could drive up housing prices, making even tiny, shoebox homes unattainable.
Using a combination of digitally friendly storytelling, photos, video, and graphics, AP’s Hong Kong team took viewers inside these subdivided apartments. Few residents were willing to speak, but Kanis Leung secured access to some of these flats. Along with Phil Holm in digital and graphics, the team illustrated how a single Hong Kong apartment can be divided and renovated to house multiple households.
The package featured By The Numbers storytelling and a graphic comparing the minimum apartment size under the new scheme to that of a parking space. Poignant images from photographer Chan Long Hei were integrated throughout, accompanied by video from Raf Wober.
The judges praised the spectacular presentation, which provided a visual journey into the lives of some 220,000 Hong Kong residents as the city moves toward eliminating subdivided apartments over the next 25 years.
For using innovative visuals, graphics, and storytelling to highlight Hong Kong’s housing crisis, Kanis Leung, Phil Holm, Chan Long Hei, and Raf Wober win this week’s Best of AP — First Winner.
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