To provide better quality public services, in recent years, the Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) has constructed several new government buildings for departments, such as the Inland Revenue Centre in the Kai Tak Development Area and the Immigration Headquarters in Tseung Kwan O. In 2023, multiple projects gained wide recognition and received over 100 awards in total ranging from international design awards to green architecture awards. The ArchSD will continue to apply innovative thinking to the 30 projects that are expected to be completed this year, which include the construction of a government complex, redevelopment of a swimming pool complex, construction of schools, and community health centres. This time, I've invited colleagues from the ArchSD to share with us the innovative designs of their projects.

Inland Revenue Centre (IRC) - First government building adopting a wall curtain design with tilted glazing panels

The Inland Revenue Centre (IRC) in Kai Tak Development Area, which was opened in end-2022, is the first government building that has adopted an innovative curtain wall design with tilted glazing panels to minimise the impact of potential glare to the surrounding environment. Senior Project Manager of the ArchSD, Mr FUNG Yiu-leung, says that tilted glazing panels are mainly installed in the office areas of the IRC. Occupants are generally satisfied with the office space. Tilted glazing panels are visually similar to the traditional vertical ones, but are more insulating and can help reduce the solar heat gain of the building, which in turn can reduce the demand on air-conditioning. Apart from adopting various renewable energy technologies and green features, the IRC has been awarded a certification at the Final Gold rating under the BEAM Plus New Buildings Scheme by the Hong Kong Green Building Council, with about 35% reduction of energy consumption in the office areas.

Pak Shek Kok Public Toilet - first thematic smart public toilet

Also incorporated with innovative elements is the Pak Shek Kok Public Toilet, which is the first thematic smart public toilet of its kind in Hong Kong. The project has a wide array of people-oriented smart features and innovative technological designs, including real-time remote monitoring of conditions in the public toilet to improve operational efficiency. Air Improvement Photovoltaic (AIPV) panels are installed in the skylights to provide partial electricity supply for the public toilet to achieve energy efficiency and carbon reduction goals. Mobile phone charging stations, dedicated handwashing facilities and drinking water stations are also provided. The design and fittings of the public toilet are based on a cycling theme, meaning that the public toilet can blend in harmoniously with the neighbouring cycling track. Not only did the project win the Golden Award in the 2023 Best Toilet Competition in Hong Kong, it is also an exemplary project to promote public toilet development and low carbon construction in Asian cities.

Construction of Yau Ma Tei Theatre Phase 2 provides additional rehearsal facilities

The ArchSD is also working vigorously on a number of projects. The Yau Ma Tei Theatre (YMTT) is a Grade 2 historic building with a 300-seat auditorium. With it being a historic building and constrained by conservation principles, the size of the YMTT’s foyer and side stage could not meet the operational needs. Therefore, in 2022, the ArchSD commenced Phase 2 construction to build a six-storey building to provide rehearsal and ancillary facilities, strengthening the role of the YMTT in grooming the next generation of Cantonese opera talents as well as promoting the development of Cantonese opera in Hong Kong. The façade design of the building was inspired by sequin embroidery in Cantonese opera costumes. The façade pattern was generated by an algorithm and printed by digital glass printing technology which allows versatility in printing a variety of patterns on glass. The fritted pattern on glass also has an energy-saving function as it can absorb and reflect part of the solar heat energy. The ArchSD expects to complete Phase 2 works in 2026.

Shek Mun Columbarium promotes green burial

Additionally, the Shek Mun Columbarium at On Hing Lane, Shek Mun, Sha Tin will provide approximately 40 000 niches to meet public demand. The project includes a memorial garden for scattering ancestors’ ashes and keeping abortuses. Its overall planning emphasises greenery and landscaping design to create a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Energy efficient features and renewable energy technologies are also integrated to promote green burial. The ArchSD expects to complete construction works of this project in 2025.

First 3D metal printed installation debuts at "Wedding Garden" of Tseung Kwan O Immigration Department Headquarters

"Weaving Love" is Hong Kong's first large-scale construction pilot project that embraces 3D metal printing technology. This extraordinary installation is at the "Wedding Garden" of the Tseung Kwan O Immigration Department Headquarters, where the wedding hall is set to commence operation by the end of June 2024.

Ms Christina POON, Senior Architect (Building Information Modelling) of the ArchSD says that according to the contractor’s estimate, this 3D metal printing technology can reduce material wastage by over 80% compared to conventional construction methods. Inspired by the bridal veil, "Weaving Love" measures approximately 5.3 metres in length, 4.5 metres in depth, and 3.5 metres in height. The veil’s silhouette is outlined in metallic wire, and the intricate lattice is comprised of heart-shaped patterns that represent the beauty of love. The project faced substantial challenges due to limitations in factory printing technology. The project team had to ensure the design's printability and maintain structural integrity, and also had to analyse construction costs and production timelines. Where appropriate, the department may apply this technology to other suitable projects.

Legislative Council Complex Expansion Project - ensuring uninterrupted operations

In addition to constructing buildings from the ground up, the ArchSD is also carrying out an expansion project at the existing Legislative Council Complex. The biggest challenge of this project is to ensure uninterrupted operation of the Legislative Council throughout the entire construction period. Mr M C LEUNG, Project Manager of the ArchSD, says that the project team has adopted the "Modular Integrated Construction" (MiC) method to construct the new Member’s floors (11th to 14th floors), which can shorten the construction period and minimise disruption. The ArchSD expects to complete the works by the end of November this year.

With innovative thinking and people-oriented ideas, the ArchSD will continue to inject new elements into other projects.