A catalyst for low-carbon design

Hong Kong Jockey Club Communications and Technology Centre

Shatin, Hong Kong

With aspirations to bring a number of key operations together on one site, the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) has developed a new Communications and Technology Centre on the Shatin racecourse. This purpose built structure will provide facilities for their telephone betting centre, integrated call centre, IT Department Offices, Audio Visual Department and the HKJC College for staff training.

Challenge

Buro Happold was enlisted to provide engineering design for the high performance facade and sustainable design strategies. Creating a quality working environment with highly sustainable credentials was a key requirement for Hong Kong Jockey Club. We needed to optimise the building’s facade, orientation and building services to ensure the project had as little impact on the environment as possible.

Solution

Using BEAM, Hong Kong’s local environmental assessment model, and LEED as a framework, we focused on reducing the impact of the building in terms of energy, water and waste, while also lowering costs. We carried out extensive computer simulation to enhance the building’s energy performance and life cycle cost, alongside a life cycle analysis to assess several aspects of the building with a long-term view.

The project’s building envelope has been developed to reduce thermal and solar loads, while the orientation was specified to limit heating and cooling loads along with the associated energy consumption. Horizontal fins around the perimeter of the building and terraces provide shading, further reducing solar gain. Our team built a 3D model to assess the most effective internal layout, creating a dynamic thermal analysis of a typical office floor. 

The building incorporates a number of high performance systems, including a solar hot water heating system, rainwater recycling system and water efficient fittings. The space utilises energy efficient lighting, with the use of occupancy sensors and zones contributing to a 28% saving on lighting energy every year.

Value

The Jockey Club’s Communication and Technology Centre provides exceptional spaces that are both environmentally conscious and attentive to the needs of the occupants. The project was awarded BEAM Plus and LEED “Gold” and also received a ASHRAE Award following its completion, demonstrating its success.