Mabelle Ma, Senior Sales Manager of Swire Properties, said: "We are very honoured to be the first urban residential development to achieve such prestigious rating. This is a valued recognition of our determination and dedication in contributing to a better environment, not only for our residents but for the neighbourhood and the community as a whole. This also awarded us for our distinctive and continuous efforts in sustainable development."

The impact of the development on the local environment during construction and operation was carefully considered since the early site-planning phase, in areas such as microclimate, air quality, noise impact and transportation and pedestrian access. Various construction practices were thoroughly explored to locate the methods that would best fit the nature of the development and the surrounding area while minimising negative impact to the environment. For example, the adoption of prefabricated elements (facades and balconies) for the fabrication of the residential towers have significantly minimised the associated air and water pollution impacts on site, with the added benefits of reducing natural resource use and enhancing construction quality. The same level of meticulous planning was applied to the choice of materials as well as building and interior designs.

"We have designed a designated pedestrian access with beautified streetscape which represents a part of our efforts to rejuvenate the community for the benefit of the people living and working in Island East," said Ma.

"In addition, the microclimate around and adjacent to the two residential towers have been adequately considered to minimise the occurrence of pedestrian discomfort due to high wind speeds or stagnant airflow both during construction and upon completion of the project. Natural advantages were utilised with widened and naturally ventilated corridors and a balcony for each unit to ensure a healthier and more pleasant living environment, not only for the residents of The Orchards but the neighbourhood in the long run," Ma added.

"Indeed the adoption of high environmental standards for a redevelopment project in an urban and mature area poses a tremendous challenge as limiting factors, such as site constrains and planning regulations, often hinders significant progress to be made," said Peter Chan, Sustainable Buildings and Construction Manager of the Business Environment Council. "However, in response to this environmental challenge, the developer for The Orchards has exercised flexibility and applied innovations, which have led to the adoption of some of the latest and state-of-the-art technologies and techniques, such as rainwater recycling systems and solar powered lighting, on its way to achieving the highest HK-BEAM Excellent rating."

The Orchards is the latest residential development of Swire Properties and one of the finest examples of Swire Homes. Located in Island East, the project provides 442 units with sizes ranging from 790 sq ft to 1,147 sq ft, including four penthouse units with sizes ranging from 1,508 sq ft to 1,737 sq ft. Japanese- and English-styled sky gardens are located on the 17/F and 32/F of each of the two residential towers, while the clubhouse and podium garden provide comprehensive health and recreational facilities to residents of all ages.

Swire Properties has been committed to taking proactive approach to environmental issues. Prior to The Orchards' achievement of the HK-BEAM "Excellent" rating, 10 office buildings developed by the Company have also obtained the "Excellent" rating, with its Lincoln House in TaiKoo Place as the first office building in Hong Kong to receive such distinctive recognition.

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