Medellín, Colombia Conferred Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize 2016

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The Metro Cable moving over Medellín.

The Metro Cable moving over Medellín.

The Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize 2016 is conferred on Medellín, the second largest city in Colombia after the capital city of Bogota. The biennial Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize is jointly organised by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) and the Centre for Liveable Cities, to honour outstanding achievements and contributions to the creation of liveable, vibrant and sustainable urban communities around the world.

The award seeks to recognise and celebrate efforts in furthering innovation in urban solutions and sustainable urban development. This year’s Prize Laureate was selected from 38 nominated cities, following a rigorous two-tier selection process comprising a Nominating Committee and a Prize Council.

Chairman of the Nominating Committee, Kishore Mahbubani said, “Medellín’s transformation has been extraordinary. It has gone from being one of the world’s most dangerous cities into a liveable and innovative city. Its success gives hope to many cities in developing countries, where the next wave of massive urbanisation will take place. Medellín can become a Mecca of learning for them. We are therefore proud to award the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize to Medellín.”

A festival taking place at UVA The Dreams - Barrio Versalles: an example of using underutilised spaces for community activities

A festival taking place at UVA The Dreams – Barrio Versalles: an example of using underutilised spaces for community activities

The key to Medellín’s transformation is bold and visionary leadership, as well as social and urban innovation. The elected leaders demonstrated strong political will and commitment to good governance, citizen participation and prioritising equal opportunities for all citizens. Faced with limited resources, they adopted creative and non-conventional approaches in dealing with challenging issues. Medellín emphasised education and cultural transformation to bring about change.

Mayor of Medellín, Federico Guitierez Zuluaga said, “This is an important recognition that we feel proud of for our city. We thank you for the encouragement to continue working for our city, a spectacular city that has come a long way but also has a long way to go.”

Click HERE to read more about Medellín’s initiatives.

Banyan Tree Group Expands Into Australia With $150-million Venture

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The view at dusk.

The view at dusk.

The Banyan Tree Group (BTG) recently announced plans for its first branded residences in Australia. The AUD150-million project and its 76 luxury freehold private residences will set a new precedent for the Brisbane property market.

Initial interest from buyers has been strong, thanks to the 2200-square-metre Kangaroo Point site’s views of the CBD, river and botanic gardens – in addition to its convenient location, proximity to amenities and the strong reputation of the Banyan Tree brand.

Taking its cues from the iconic location, the landmark building will feature a striking exterior, with three undulating wave structures. Each Banyan Tree Residence property is unique in its design, with the vision for Banyan Tree Residences Brisbane the result of a collaboration by the group’s in-house design team and Woods Bagot, an international design practice with offices in Australia.

Commenting on the development, Executive Chairman Ho Kwon Ping said, “The city was a natural choice given its 2.2 million residents and $135-billion-dollar economy. As the leader in the country’s infrastructure boom, there are strong growth projections for Brisbane as it continues to transform and evolve. Construction is slated to commence in the second half of 2016, with completion expected in late 2018. We are looking forward to bringing the Banyan Tree brand of international luxury lifestyle to our Brisbane development.”

Unit interiors at the new Residence.

Unit interiors at the new Residence.

Banyan Tree Residences Brisbane will include 76 freehold private residences over 10 levels: four penthouses (three with rooftop infinity pool and private garden terrace), 27 three-bedroom apartments and 45 two-bedroom apartments.

Owners will enjoy a secure lobby with 24-hour Banyan Tree concierge service, onsite Banyan Tree Spa and retail Gallery, premium dining venues and an exclusive rooftop garden with private function space, barbeque facilities, daybeds and an expansive infinity pool. The property will also feature additional private function spaces, gymnasium, and a secure underground car park. Residents will also enjoy proximity to some of the city’s best dining and cultural precincts, as well as schools, universities, hospitals and transportation.

Lobby View 160129

A view of the lobby.

Banyan Tree Residences Brisbane owners will receive access to the range of premium Banyan Tree services such as membership to the Banyan Tree Sanctuary Club, which entitles them to exclusive discounts and privileges through the group’s global network of resorts and spas and access to the Banyan Tree Private Collection, an exclusive destination club with a portfolio of villas in stunning locations like Tuscany and Provence.

Premium co-working spaces and innovative value-added services at Capital Tower offer unprecedented flexibility and convenience

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To shape the future of office buildings in Singapore, CapitaLand is carrying out a series of pilot initiatives at its headquarters building – Capital Tower to test bed alternative workspaces and provision of new value-added services to its office tenants.

 

Lim Ming Yan, President & Group CEO of CapitaLand Limited, said, “From premium coworking spaces to online concierge services, we are excited to be piloting these innovations at Capital Tower in Singapore. Using our headquarters building as the test bed for the ‘office of the future’ is a strong testament of CapitaLand’s commitment to offer unprecedented levels of flexibility and convenience to our office tenants. Through these workplace innovation and services, CapitaLand is set to change the way people are going to use office spaces.”

 

In what is a first for a Grade A office building, CapitaLand will partner Singapore’s co-working space pioneer, Collective Works, to transform the 12th storey of Capital Tower into a premium, high-performance co-working space. Collective Works will also manage the co-working space on behalf of the partnership.

CapitaLand will partner with Collective Works to transform Capital Tower's 12th storey into a premium, co-working space.

CapitaLand will partner with Collective Works to transform Capital Tower’s 12th storey into a premium, co-working space.

 

A business space and services provision model which caters to individuals or companies working independently or collaboratively in shared office spaces, the co-working phenomenon began in the U.S. and has spread quickly across other gateway cities such as New York, London, Berlin and Paris followed by Southeast Asia.

 

In Singapore, co-working is at a fairly nascent stage with a variety of business models. Research of the office market has revealed emerging interest among operators and customers alike for innovative, quality co-working spaces in the Central Business District.

 

With innovative spatial design and efficient layout plans, the coworking space at Capital Tower spanning approximately 22,000 square feet, has the capacity to house up to 250 companies. Incorporating high-quality IT infrastructure and fit-out, the space will comprise shared work spaces, meeting rooms, private phone booths, huddle rooms, as well as communal pantries and lounges.

 

Going beyond brick and mortar offerings, CapitaLand has also launched the ‘Just Use’ initiative (https://justuse.com.sg/), which can be likened to an online concierge service that provides both the office and retail tenants of CapitaLand with added value and convenience through an aggregated cross-selling model – a first among landlords in Singapore. In a pilot offered at Capital Tower since December 2015, time-strapped office tenants have tapped on ‘Just Use’ to order meals, consumer products and laundry services from CapitaLand retail tenants.

Lynette Leong, CEO of CapitaLand Commercial Trust Management Limited said, “We are constantly looking for ways to enhance our tenants’ experience and forge a stronger sense of community. With ‘Just Use’, our office tenants get to enjoy the convenience of “shop, save and collect” without having to leave the building. At the same time, the service supports our retail tenants. This symbiosis creates a virtual ecosystem that is only possible with digital technology underpinned by our vast network of office and retail tenants.”

Professor John Anthony Cherry announced as 7th Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize Laureate

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The Singapore International Water Week, a biennial event that gathers leaders and innovators from the global water industry on a single platform awarded the prestigious Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2016 to world-renowned hydrogeologist, Professor John Anthony Cherry. The announcement of the Water Prize Laureate this year marks the first time it is held in conjunction with World Water Day to emphasise the integral role water has in affecting communities and economies of all sizes.

Mr Ng Joo Hee (L), Chief Executive, PUB, and Professor John Anthony Cherry (R), Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2016 laureate.

Mr Ng Joo Hee (L), Chief Executive, PUB, and Professor John Anthony Cherry (R), Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2016 laureate.

Currently in its 7th edition, the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize has consistently attracted world-class talent and excellence in individuals or organisations who drive the development or application of innovative technologies, policies or programmes that aim to solve global water challenges. This year, the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize Council lauds Prof Cherry for his contributions and influence in groundwater management, and lifelong dedication to the protection of groundwater resources – a major water source for many countries around the world and one that constitutes 95 percent of the usable freshwater on the planet.

A leading authority in hydrogeology, Prof Cherry’s revolutionary research in collaboration with international partners has provided the global groundwater community with a better scientific framework to formulate policies and best practices. He has been a major influence in advancing global recognition of groundwater processes and the development of better field methods for groundwater contamination.

The revolutionary research findings and policy impact by Prof. Cherry have contributed to more effective risk management in groundwater pollution control measures, as well as revisions and formulation of new groundwater remediation guidelines and approaches in several countries including the United States. The effect of his contributions have also established new models for public-private partnerships for groundwater research.

Adding to his list of accomplished achievements, the monitoring technologies and clean-up processes developed by Prof. Cherry have been implemented in areas that face groundwater contamination, including those in the United States, China, and Brazil, among others. In fact, one of the most important insights unearthed by Prof Cherry subsequently formed the theoretical basis for the set of benchmark criteria used in the disposal of hazardous industrial and nuclear waste, which has been incorporated into regulatory frameworks.

Prof. Cherry is also an advocate for the need to monitor and research the effects of shale gas exploitation and fracking on groundwater resources. In recent years, he has focused his research on fractured rock, the least understood of all groundwater systems but one that is particularly susceptible to contamination. His knowledge in fractured rock hydrology and rock drilling has contributed towards the supply of safe drinking water to people living in mountainous bedrock regions with limited vehicle access. Prof Cherry remains active in the scientific community and is currently leading an international team to acquire and test small, low-cost portable rock drills to make small-capacity wells that are designed to have a low risk of bacterial contamination.

L-R: Mr Bernard Tan, Managing Director, Singapore International Water Week, Mr Ng Joo Hee, Chief Executive, PUB, Professor John Anthony Cherry, Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2016 laureate, and Mr Harry Seah, Chief Engineering and Technology Officer, PUB

L-R: Mr Bernard Tan, Managing Director, Singapore International Water Week, Mr Ng Joo Hee, Chief Executive, PUB, Professor John Anthony Cherry, Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2016 laureate, and Mr Harry Seah, Chief Engineering and Technology Officer, PUB

Mr Tan Gee Paw, Chairman of the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize Nominating Committee, said, “Prof. Cherry exemplifies the attributes needed to drive the development of innovative solutions that address the global water crises. To create real impact and influence policymaking and regulations require courageous, informed and decisive action. This is clearly reflected in Prof Cherry’s approach to field research and advocacy. The insights and contributions made by Prof Cherry form today’s framework in understanding one of the world’s most precious water resources, and ultimately lead to the provision of safe drinking water to populations that rely primarily on groundwater resources.”

Professor John Anthony Cherry added, “It is an incredible honour to receive the prestigious Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, and to be accepting the recognition in conjunction with World Water Day speaks volumes of its significance. I am confident that global accolades such as the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize will heighten awareness of the global water challenges and encourage the development of innovative water solutions and technologies for more effective water management and protection of our water resources.”

As the 7th Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize Laureate, Professor John Anthony Cherry will deliver the Singapore Water Lecture on 11 July 2016. He will also receive the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize at the Lee Kuan Yew Prize Award Ceremony and Banquet on the same night. The award ceremony is one of the flagship programmes of the Singapore International Water Week, which will be held from July 10 to 14, 2016, co-located with the World Cities Summit and Clean Enviro Summit Singapore. The 7th Singapore International Water Week will feature a range of flagship programmes and platforms that bring together the global value chain of water to share the latest in business and technological innovations, as well as policy developments in water.

Huationg Global’s net attributable profit rises 25.5 percent to S$6.4 million in FY2015

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Huationg Global Limited, a full-service integrated civil engineering solutions provider, today announced a 25.5 percent year-on-year (y-o-y) increase in profit attributable to owners of the parent to S$6.4 million for the financial year ended 31 December 2015 (FY 2015), compared to S$5.1 million for the financial year ended 31 December 2014 (FY 2014).

 

Notably, the Group’s improved bottom line was achieved despite a 2.4 percent y-o-y dip in revenue to S$130.2 million. In view of its FY2015 results, the Group has proposed a final tax-exempt cash dividend of S$0.003 per share. Together with an interim tax-exempt cash dividend of S$0.003 per share declared for the financial period ended 30 June 2015, the total dividends from Huationg Global declared for FY2015 add up to S$0.006 per share, which is equivalent to a payout ratio of 14.2 percent.

The Group’s improved bottom line was achieved despite a 2.4 percent y-o-y dip in revenue to S$130.2 million

The Group’s improved bottom line was achieved despite a 2.4 percent y-o-y dip in revenue to S$130.2 million

In FY2015, contribution from the Group’s inland logistics services segment increased by 2.6 percent to S$28.1million as a result of higher demand for aggregates in the construction industry, which increased the demand for transportation services and a 13.6 percent increase in contribution from the sale of construction Huationg Global Limited materials segment to S$2.5 million.

This was offset by a 4.0 percent decrease in contribution from the Group’s civil engineering services segment to S$99.6 million, due largely to lower revenue recognised from external work contracts in the first half of FY2015 as well as the timing of certain new projects, which only commenced near the end of the financial year.

Cost of sales and services fell by 7.6% to S$103.1 million in FY2015 due to lower costs relating to direct labour, direct material, transportation charges, sub-contract and fuel, resulting in a 24.9 percent increase in gross profit of the Group to S$27.1 million. Consequently, gross profit margin improved from 16.3 percent in FY2014 to 20.8 percent in FY2015 mainly from lower fuel costs and sub-contracting costs.

Commenting on the Group’s financial results, Mr Patrick Ng, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Group, said, “Despite a rather muted economic environment, Huationg Global delivered a bottom-line growth of 25.5 percent in FY2015 and continued to grow most of our business segments. This is the result of improvements made in our operations, especially in the planning of our labour and transport resources, which had a positive impact on our costs. Looking ahead, we are confident that our rich experience and competence in this industry will continue to help us manage and execute new projects, especially larger scale projects that we had secured in FY2015.”

Based on this set of results, the earnings per share of the Group was 4.23 Singapore cents in FY2015 as compared to 4.11 Singapore cents in FY2014, while its net asset value per share as at 31 December 2015 stood at 35.12 Singapore cents compared to 30.48 Singapore cents as at 31 December 2014.

Outlook for FY2016
The Building and Construction Authority (BCA) announced on 15 January 2016 that construction demand in 2016 is projected to be between S$27 billion and S$34 billion, of which about S$18.5 billion to S$21.5 billion are expected to come from the public sector. If these estimates are met, 2016 will see the highest proportion of construction demand from the public sector since 2002. Underpinning the growth in public sector-led construction demand is an expected increase in civil engineering demand.

Over the course of FY2015, the Group secured a strong pipeline of civil engineering projects worth approximately S$129.3 million, comprising mainly public sector projects that it expects to deliver over the next five years. Notable projects include land preparation works at Changi Airport, the proposed development of an integrated regional hospital at Sengkang; road widening and construction of road related facilities along Tampines Avenue 9 and earthworks projects for certain Thomson Line MRT stations.

The Group is well positioned in the niche area of civil engineering industry and intends to capitalise on its competitive strengths to bring about enhanced values for its shareholders. The Group has been actively participating in tenders for public sector projects and continues to be optimistic about securing public infrastructural projects mainly in the upcoming Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL) and additional works at Changi Airport works. Additionally, the Group is exploring various avenues to forge strategic alliances with business partners and will update the shareholders of any material developments.

Complete low-voltage solution cuts engineering costs and project delivery time for Bangkok’s new EmQuartier mall

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Bangkok's new EmQuartier Mall.

Bangkok’s new EmQuartier Mall.

ABB, the leading power and automation group, has installed a smart low-voltage network in a cutting-edge shopping mall in Bangkok, the EmQuartier. The project is the first retail development to use ABB’s Emax 2 circuit breakers and Ekip control and connectivity features for remote management of its power grid. ABB’s complete low-voltage solution improved the project’s delivery time by 35 percent and reduced engineering costs by around 60 percent, due to its integrated SCADA functionality.

Giampiero Frisio, managing director of ABB’s Protection and Connection business, said, “The solution developed for EmQuartier demonstrates why ABB is the technology leader in low-voltage energy. Building operators need solutions that make energy management easier and that help reduce total operating costs – ABB’s complete solutions simplify the whole process for everybody: panel builders and system integrators save time and money while making the end-user’s operations simpler to manage, safer, more reliable and energy efficient. By pioneering the introduction of more integrated, intuitive and connected low-voltage solutions, ABB is taking power and productivity to the next level.”

The EmQuartier is a 250,000-square-metre luxury shopping and entertainment venue and a key part of the Mall Group’s multibillion Baht transformation of Bangkok’s business district. ABB developed the centre’s low-voltage network in partnership with local panel builder PMK Group. Emax 2 circuit breakers’ built-in sensors and connectivity, configured with Ekip View supervision software enable remote monitoring, management and control of the low-voltage network at the shopping mall.

Emax 2’s connectivity features enable it to integrate into a wide array of automated systems.

Emax 2’s connectivity features enable it to integrate into a wide array of automated systems.

With each node in the electrical distribution network connected, everything from energy consumption to trend analysis and testing can be managed remotely. The air circuit breakers’ intuitive touchscreen user interface supports ten different languages, including Thai, helping make the network simpler to manage.

Chanapatt Pattaramaetakul, chief marketing officer of PMK Group, said: “The EmQuartier is a landmark in Bangkok’s economic development – and the development of its low-voltage network demanded a different level of innovation and quality. Working closely with ABB from the outset enabled PMK to offer a smarter solution in considerably less time.”

The solution for EmQuartier uses Emax2 circuit breakers, which can monitor, manage and even limit power consumption. Emax 2’s connectivity features enable it to integrate into a wide array of automated systems so that facility managers can receive alerts and communicate remotely via a tablet. ABB’s Ekip View supervision software connects more than 100+ Emax2 air circuit breakers with all the molded case circuit breakers (MCCBs) and other devices, like miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) and multimeters, as well as the mall’s central monitoring system.

With each node in the electrical distribution network connected, everything from energy consumption to trend analysis and testing can be managed remotely.

With each node in the electrical distribution network connected, everything from energy consumption to trend analysis and testing can be managed remotely.

ABB is partnering with panel builders and system integrators worldwide to support the introduction of smarter low-voltage power grids that make site management more effective and cost-efficient. Such systems can be deployed at a single site or multiple sites and supervised at a central location. Collecting detailed data from each device at a site enables operators to compare different time windows, or similar time windows at different plants. Monitoring the status of assets for issues such as contact wear, life expectancy, alarms or circuit breaker position, with notifications sent to mobile devices, can ensure more timely interventions.

Mining Industry Represented Through Architecture At New $20 Million Library

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The South Australia Drill Core Reference Library. Image by James Knowler.

The South Australia Drill Core Reference Library will hold 7.5 million metres of drill core samples collected over 130 years of exploration from across South Australia. The library has the capacity to display up to 2 kilometres of cores for inspection on a series of automated conveyor belts in the main viewing area.

Leading practice architectural design and engineering has combined to integrate function with striking form that honours the origins and visual characteristics of drill core. The building, which opened on February 17, also features conference rooms and a 3D viewing room, which uses virtual reality technology to give geologists a worms-eye view of geology and mineral deposits under the earth’s surface.

The library brings together samples previously stored at four separate drill core libraries spread across South Australia. The vast collection is midway through the shift into the massive storage warehouse at the rear of the building, featuring eight seemingly never-ending aisles that reach to the high ceiling. A hi-tech turret truck and forklift are used to fetch requested core samples to be brought to the main viewing area for inspection.

Architects Thomson Rossi were key partners in the South Australian Government to prepare a business case to look at the fundamental economics of such a project in 2011 and worked with multi-disciplinary engineering firm Aurecon before an advanced business case was commissioned in 2013. Funding for the project was approved in 2014 with construction starting in January 2015 and completed in December 2015.

The library is located in the Tonsley precinct. Image courtesy of James Knowler.

The library is located in the Tonsley precinct. Image by James Knowler.

The $19.8 million building is divided into three sections – administration, library and logistics – and has a total floor area of 7470 square metres. Thomson Rossi Director Simon Thomson said the firm was able to engage with the client from an early stage to establish the overarching design principals of vision, inspiration and iconography.

The library is located in the Tonsley precinct, the site of a former Mitsubishi car manufacturing plant, which has been converted into a modern hub for high-value industries.

Thomson said the “long and skinny” site at Tonsley was ideal because it had access to high-speed Internet, was part of a hub focused on innovation and would provide a catalyst for other mining related companies to set up in the precinct.

“It ticked a lot of boxes – it’s easy to access from the airport and there’s a lot happening on the site to make it an interesting place to be,” he said. “The vision of what this building actually should be was that it should be a beacon, it should be experiential and it should represent world’s best practice.”

He continued, “The previous (South Australian) drill core library had been rated the second best facility of its type in the world so we wanted to build on that and make the new one the best,” he said. “So as a beacon we saw it as a signpost for South Australian mining ambition and a chance to establish an exciting and iconic brand for mining in South Australia.”

The building is divided into three sections – administration, library and logistics. Image by James Knowler.

The building is divided into three sections – administration, library and logistics. Image by James Knowler.

Exploration companies in South Australia are required by legislation to provide the Department of State Development with samples of any core and cuttings taken during tenure. Core and cuttings are stored in the Drill Core Reference Library.

Thomson said the experience the firm wanted to create was of a world-class facility ensuring a positive impression for visitors. The other part of the experience was that it needed to be able to be used as an educational tool for university and school students. The building had to reflect the best practice in core libraries and embrace new technology and research in a collaborative environment.

Images on the themes of mining, outback, geology and the imagery of the drill cores themselves were used to provide inspiration for the design and look of the building. The front section of the building is clad in COR-TEN steel sheets that have a rusted iron look.

“In an abstract way we are trying to reflect the geology that this building is all about. Using the COR-TEN steel sheeting, which basically just rusts, it’s all about creating a building that is very raw as the raw materials of mining are but also from a pragmatic sense it’s recognizing that governments don’t have a lot of money to spend on maintenance so it’s a wonderful material that you never have to maintain and it continues to change as the building ages.”

The library brings together samples previously stored at four separate drill core libraries spread across South Australia. Image by James Knowler.

The library brings together samples previously stored at four separate drill core libraries. Image by James Knowler.

Thomson said the “dramatic” front end was designed to evoke images of mining sites. “There are some quite raw elements inside as well. We’ve used things like the polished concrete where you can see the aggregate, the carpet in certain sections is like looking at an aerial map of outback South Australia. We’ve got exposed ducting and perforated steel sheet that’s bolted together that forms the staircases so it’s that kind of a rough industrial look you might find on a mining site. At the same time we’ve made it a very convivial environment,” said Thomas.

The building also has several meeting and conference rooms of varying sizes, a kitchen area, laboratory and a lobby area to welcome visitors upon entry.

Green Building Developments Gets Boost from Carrier Singapore’s and Toshiba’s Newest Variable Refrigerant Flow System

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The SMMS-e is the next-gen model of the Toshiba VRF system.

The SMMS-e is the next-gen model of the Toshiba VRF system.

Carrier Singapore Pte Ltd. (Carrier Singapore) announced today the launch of the Toshiba Super Modular Multi System-e (SMMS-e), a next-generation variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system that combines industry-leading energy efficiency with expanded capacity loads and a smaller modular footprint.

 

The SMMS-e is the next gen model of the Toshiba VRF system and boasts a number of industry-leading system enhancements, including an expanded single outdoor unit capacity, as well as an expanded combination capacity.

 

An ideal system to support green building development, the SMMS is designed to help meet increased demand for high-efficiency building systems that use less energy and lower the overall carbon footprint of buildings. Driven by high-volume compressors and Toshiba’s high-performance inverter, the product is said to be one of the most energy efficient in the industry.

The SMMS-e has a single unit outdoor capacity of up to 22HP, which enables building owners to save on the footprint occupied by each system – with a reduced number of combined modular units necessary to obtain a high capacity.

Partial load performance for higher energy efficiency
SMMS-e is the only product in the heating, ventilating and cooling industry that has obtained a European Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (ESEER) of at least 7.0 for all available chassis options – both on a stand-alone and combination basis. It has also achieved one of the highest-class nominal efficiency ratios in the industry: 6.39 for EER with the 8HP module.

Incorporated in Toshiba’s new VRF system design are three cutting-edge technologies that deliver industry-leading energy-efficient performance:

  • Compressor: Application of a diamond-like carbon coating to the rotary vane of the DC twin rotary compressor successfully reduces friction and provides an expanded RPS range from 15RPS to 115RPS, while ensuring reliable operation.
  • Heat Exchanger: The new and enhanced heat exchanger design improves overall heat exchange efficiency by using a smaller tube diameter to reduce the pitch of the tubes, increasing the number of tube rows.
  • Accumulator: The new refrigerant system is designed with a modified outlet tube, which improves refrigerant circulation and capacity.

High-volume single outdoor unit modules rated as one of the industry’s best
Toshiba 3The expanded capacities on both the standalone (22HP) and combination bases (60HP) enable the reduction in the number of outdoor unit modules and the labour hours required for piping, wiring and hoisting of units onto the top of the building for installation.

Toshiba’s standalone model has one of the smallest footprints among models of the same class in the industry. The two-propeller fan system was newly developed for the SMMS-e to minimise noise.

 

 

 

 

Easier service and maintenance

A contactless communication unit offers ease of service and maintenance.

A contactless communication unit offers ease of service and maintenance.

The SMMS-e is the first system in the industry to include a contactless communication unit as its standard equipment offering, designed for ease of service and maintenance. The SMMS-e is compatible with near field communication, a protocol for contactless communication between devices and smartphones. The SMMS Wave Tool application can be downloaded from a dedicated website and installed on the smartphone.

During installation and service, customers can obtain service and maintenance data such as system configuration and error code history through this application without removing the front panel of the outdoor unit. This feature can be used even when the outdoor unit is not connected to a power source. The data obtained via the SMMS Wave Tool may be sent via e-mail, which facilitates communication between on-premise personnel and colleagues in the office.

Expanded Flexibility in Piping Design
toshiba 2With the SMMS-e, up to 18 units of8HP module indoor units can now be connected. When the SMMS-e modules are used in combination, the number of connectable indoor units is also improved to 64 units.

The SMMS-e also features improvements on maximum piping length; the maximum pipe length between the outdoor unit and the farthest indoor unit is increased to 235 metres, while the maximum height difference between the indoor and outdoor units is extended to 40 metres, both of which are best in the industry. The piping length from the first branch joint to the farthest indoor unit is also extended to up to 90 metres. These enhancements provide the utmost flexibility in design and installation.

Carrier Singapore distributes Toshiba air conditioning products in Singapore as part of a global alliance agreement between the two businesses. For more information, log on to www.carrier.com.sg.

One of Hong Kong’s Largest Public Art Hoardings Takes Centre Stage at H Queen’s

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The building’s unique architecture provides maximum flexibility and eco-friendly features to accommodate a range of exhibition and entertainment needs

The building’s
unique architecture provides maximum flexibility and
eco-friendly features
to accommodate a range of exhibition and
entertainment needs

Henderson Leasing Agency Company Ltd., as a wholly owned subsidiary of Henderson Land Development Company Ltd. (collectively called “Henderson”) as well as the leasing and marketing agent of the development H Queen’s (HQ), has announced a new public art programme Time & Scale: 10 Hong Kong artists at HQ in preparation for the 2017 launch of its latest development.

 

“Over the years, Henderson has witnessed the growth in Hong Kong’s art and cultural landscape. The art scene has transformed dramatically in recent years and we hope to inspire conversation about the role of Hong Kong on the global art stage through compelling pieces by Hong Kong talents,” says Kristine Li, Assistant General Manager of Henderson Leasing Agency Company Ltd.

“HQ is a game changer. The building incorporates an historic setting with an advanced modern design and a premium tailored space that capitalises on the urban backdrop of Central. Committed to forging a creative community and making Hong Kong a more vibrant place to live. HQ presents this programme to bring art closer to the general public.”

To be unveiled on 21 March during Hong Kong’s period of art celebration when connoisseurs globally flock to the city, Time & Scale: 10 Hong Kong artists at HQ is the first time 10 of Hong Kong’s most notable artists have joined forces to create captivating artwork on the building’s hoarding

This select group of established and emerging contemporary artists were invited to answer the question of what it takes to make or change a culture and have their responses showcased in one of the largest scale public art hoardings seen in Hong Kong HQ’s hoarding, an art platform widely visible to the public until the last quarter of 20 comprises three sections, Queen’s Road Central (measuring 12 metres x 5 metres), Pottinger Street (36 metres x 3 metres) and Stanley Street (2r2metres x 3 (metres). Artist   featured inclue Frog King (Kwok Mang Ho),

Lam Tung pang, Ho Sin Tung, Bosco Law, South Ho, Damon Tong, Esther Poon, Stanley Siu, and Peggy Chan.

Designed by renowned architect and artist William Lim of CL3 Architects, and occupying a prime location on 80 Queen’s Road Central, HQ will b an architectural icon and a showcase for the city’s top artistic and ifesetyle ventures.

With an emphasis   on   spaciousness, functionality, eco- friendliness and energy efficiency, HQ is specially designed ideal kthspaces for art exhibitions, as well as floors dedicated for exclusive   retail and dining establishments.   Situated   in the   centre   of   Hong   Kong’ s   art   and   lifestyle hub, the award-winning building offers esthetes and gourmets around the world an unparalleled contemporary experience.

Featured Artists
The outdoor exhibition will feature works by celebrated Hong Kong artists, including Frog, King (Kwok Mang Ho) and, Lam Tung-pang.

An iconic landmark design with all glass mullions at the podium portion to create a glass box effect

An iconic landmark design with all glass
mullions at the podium portion to create a glass box effect

Since 1967, Frog King has exhibited his works in over 3,000 art events worldwide. In 1998, he   received the coveted Hong Kong Arts Development Council Emeritus Fellowship award, and also represented 5th Venice Biennale in 2011. In 2015, his works were featured in Mobile M+: Live Art presented by West Kowloon Cultural District

An MA graduate of Central St Martins College of Art, London, Lam Tung-pang is recognised for his paintings and sculptures that interpret social content   using a combination of traditional and modern techniques. He has received numerous scholarships and awards including The Schoeni Prize -Sovereign Asian Art Prizes (2006) and Young Artist of the Year – Hunting Art Prize, U.K. (2005).

From 21 March, the Stanley Street façade will double as a canvas for Lam’s drawing that incorporates old and new images of Hong Kong. The HQ public art programme will also present works from 8 emerging artists. Representing the next generation of contemporary artists, Ho Sin Tung, Bosco Law, South Ho, Damon Tong, Esther Poon, Stanley Siu, Tony Ng and Peggy Chan will apply their creative visions t the foot tunnel adjacent to HQ.

Living Free
The site-specific art forms will range   from intricate illustrations to photography and mix media collages to colrful yarn installations. Many of the exhibits will feature interactive elements to engage and connect passersby.

Johnson Controls Helps Hong Kong Landmark Sun Hung Kai Centre Exceed Energy Savings Goal

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Sun Hung Kai Properties is a pioneer in the application of new green technologies.

Sun Hung Kai Properties is a pioneer in the application of new green
technologies.

Johnson Controls’ comprehensive building solution has enabled 34-year-old Sun Hung Kai Centre, a 53-storey mixed-use development and headquarters of leading developer Sun Hung Kai Properties, to achieve energy and cost savings of around 10 percent, and reduce its carbon footprint by 300 tonnes per year. This translates to annual savings of close to USD 75,000 with an anticipated return on investment of only two years.

One of the most valuable real estate developers in Asia, Sun Hung Kai Properties is a pioneer in the application of new green technologies. Sun Hung Kai Centre is among the few buildings in Hong Kong that has achieved the “Excellent” certificate awarded by the Hong Kong Environment Technology Centre, as well as achieved global certification from the International Standards Organisation (ISO) for its accomplishments in improving quality and environmental management.

Sun Hung Kai Properties set out to further reduce the building’s energy consumption and carbon footprint by five percent with minimal disruption to the occupants. Working with Johnson Controls, the company doubled its energy savings goal.

At the centre of the Johnson Controls’ project is the optimisation of the building’s central chilled water plant, which typically consumes about 40 percent of the total energy consumption in the building. Johnson Controls’ Central Plant Optimisation 10 (CPO10) software, integrated with its Metasys ® building management system and YORK® YK centrifugal chillers incorporate best practices from world-class chiller plants to optimise plant configurations. As a result, chillers with different tonnage and starters can be utilised depending on building load and ambient conditions.

Johnson Controls also introduced its proprietary fault-diagnostic software, Connected Services, which allows for remote monitoring of chillers round-the-clock. With that, Sun Hung Kai Centre receives real-time information on its chiller plant performance, as well as timely insights through monthly, customised reports indicating the health of the chillers.

“Johnson Controls gave us valuable counsel and with their integrated solutions, we were able to exceed our energy savings goal. We are deeply impressed by their level of expertise and professional service,” said Ricky Kwan, Head of Technical Services, S.H.K. Real Estate Management Company Ltd.