Building 18W is an office and laboratory facility located in Hong Kong Science Park designed to support engineering and wet laboratories up to Biosafety Level 3. While prioritising the containment of hazardous materials, the design also creates a human-centric environment with social spaces on each floor. It is highly adaptable to future needs, with open-plan labs coordinated with vertical chimney shafts and essential support areas.
The building’s distinctive concrete façade contrasts with yet complements the surrounding glass curtain wall architecture of HKSTP. Early solar shading and heat gain studies helped drive the design to lower embodied carbon, while the concrete panels are prefabricated, lessening material waste and improving construction efficiency. The concrete itself is also enhanced with sustainable ground granulated blast furnace slag, reducing cement use. The integration of sustainable design and efficient building practices reinforces the building’s commitment to both environmental responsibility and user-centric performance.
Year
2025
Prize
HKIA Special Award - Technology or Innovative Architecture
Architect(s)
Ronald Lu & Partners
