Formerly the Anderson Road Quarry, On Tai Estate has been transformed from a barren land into an “urban oasis”, developing into a sustainable community and providing green living environment for over 8 500 families in 11 domestic blocks. Resident surveys revealed that over 90% of the residents were satisfied with the estate as a whole, with particular commendations on the greening and the provision of supporting facilities including the wet market, featured external areas with public art works and geological exhibitions. Detailed micro-climatic studies were conducted to enhance building disposition and design. The colour pattern for the elevations of the domestic blocks was adopted according to the thermal study to minimise the solar heat gained on the building façade. The application of Standard Flat Modules for domestic floors resulted in achieving over 50% (in concrete volume) of off-site prefabrication. It saved nearly 7 000 trees in formworks and reduced 70% of construction waste. With the use of sustainable rainwater collection and sub-irrigation planting system, Zero Irrigation System was applied in planting trees on top of shrubs and groundcovers to minimise water consumption. About 30 solar light tubes were also installed at the wet market and the car park for introducing natural light and reducing energy consumption.
