Interview with User

Since Government Property Agency (GPA) has moved into the West Kowloon Government Offices (WKGO) about one year ago, my colleagues and I enjoy our time working in the new offices. Moving from our previous offices to WKGO, our working environment has improved noticeably thanks to ArchSD's considerations for us and other users in designing and constructing the offices.

As an award-winning building with a Gold rating in BEAM Plus, WKGO has impressed us with its extensive green and sustainable features. In particular, we like the installation of highly thermal insulating windows which help maintain a pleasant room temperature without compromising the access of daylight, as well as the sky garden serving as an excellent leisure space for users. We also appreciate how ArchSD values inclusiveness to accommodate users with different needs. WKGO provides all-rounded barrier-free facilities, from tactile guide paths, braille and tactile floor plans to barrier-free access ramps and audible signal system in passenger lifts, and family-friendly facilities, such as lactation rooms and baby care rooms, bringing convenience in everyday life to all.

In addition to our great experience working in WKGO, we are glad to have ArchSD overseeing the construction project, from design to post-occupancy maintenance services. ArchSD has demonstrated a high level of professionalism and dedication and is eager to maintain close communication with us. During the design stage of WKGO, ArhcSD actively engaged with GPA and other users to seek thorough understanding of our needs and concerns, further put in place and realise our ideas. For example, when ArchSD brought up the proposal of the design of vertical greenery, GPA raised our concerns over the access for regular maintenance. ArchSD worked with us to ensure facilities like access platform are available to allow safe and sound upkeep measures. The project team has also been exploring sustainable designs and environmental management measures to drive energy and water conservation in WKGO. The adoption of solar power facilities, motion sensors in lighting systems and rainwater harvesting system are the great illustrations of our continual joint efforts.

From a perspective of property management, GPA continues to monitor the building performance and seek opportunities to enhance and better both the green and social features of the buildings. By constantly communicating with ArchSD on our expectations, plans and identified improvement opportunities, we wish to promote sustainability in our on-going and future collaborations and to maximise the buildings’ values at all dimensions.

Whereas satisfying client's demands remains our core agenda, ArchSD attaches great importance to environmental and social sustainability of the architectural design and construction. It is our great honour to receive positive feedback from GPA. The success of the West Kowloon Government Offices project also owes to the contributions of our users, who are always willing to share their feedback and ideas with us. ArchSD will continue our dedication and leveraging our expertise in not only the on-going projects with GPA, but also any future opportunities, as well as to listen carefully to our users and strive for improvements.