Kowloon Walled City stands as a fascinating example of a spontaneously developed urban environment, often described as a heterotopia – a concept referring to spaces that are somehow different from the ones around them. This post explores the juxtaposition between the unique architectural structure of the Walled City and its metaphorical representation in contemporary software design where complexity builds over time without clear understanding. Users express nostalgia and mixed feelings about its demolition, hinting at a romanticization despite the harsh living conditions. The conversation also touches on similar spaces, offering comparisons to neighborhoods like Chungking Mansions and noting parallels with both literary and cinematic depictions, particularly in 'Blade Runner' and works by William Gibson. Overall, while the Walled City is a subject of wonder, it also raises ethical questions about urban decay and the legacy of informal settlements.