Under the government’s “Distinctive Shops” scheme, the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT) has repainted a number of two-storey buildings around Rua de Cinco de Outubro in rainbow colours, the bureau said in a statement yesterday.
The statement said that in order to target current consumer behaviour, the bureau decided to repaint the two-storey buildings around Rua de Cinco de Outubro and Rua do Guimarães. The statement said that the new “rainbow houses” and the newly painted murals from last year could rejuvenate the area, hence increasing its attractiveness by creating new “picture taking” spots.
The statement noted that the bureau collaborated with artists and designed the “rainbow houses” project by painting the buildings according to each shop’s signature product’s colour. The statement pointed out that the area has considerable cultural history, adding that the bureau is aiming to attract more consumers to the area by creating new “Instagrammable” spots.
Macau Institute for Tourism Studies (IFTM) Associate Professor and “Docents Association of Cultural Tourism of Macau” President Wong Un In said that the “Distinctive Shops” scheme would help the area be more appealing to visitors. Wong added that from a management point of view, if renewed “software” is installed in the area it would leave a stronger impression on visitors.
“Docent” is a teacher or lecturer, at central European universities in particular.
The statement said that the chairman of the Industry and Commerce Federation of Macau Central and Southern District, Lei Cheok Kuan, said that beautifying historical areas could create an “East meets West” atmosphere, which would bring a “fresh” experience to local residents and visitors.
According to the statement, the president of the Welfare and Mutual Help Association for Rua de Cinco de Outubro and Surrounding Areas, Lam Kam Tin, said he hoped that the project would bring economic benefits to Rua de Cinco de Outubro.
The statement pointed out that the bureau would continue to work on the “Distinctive Shops” scheme by supporting small-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), improving the operating environment and creating more landmarks in the city’s streets. The statement added that the scheme tries to attract visitors through online and offline promotions.
This undated handout photo provided by the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT) yesterday shows the newly painted two-storey buildings in Rua de Cinco de Outubro.
