OREANDA-NEWS. May 15, 2013. The Bank of East Asia (“BEA”) has celebrated the completion of the structure of its new building at 33 Des Voeux Road Central by holding a topping out ceremony on site. Dr. David K.P. Li, Chairman & Chief Executive of BEA officiated at the ceremony together with members of the Bank’s Board of Directors and special guests.

The site at 33 Des Voeux Road Central was formerly occupied by the United Chinese Bank Building. The new building is located in the heart of Central District, in close proximity to the MTR’s Central Station and Airport Express Hong Kong Station. Upon its completion in the fourth quarter of 2013, the building will comprise 27 floors with a gross area of more than 88,000 square feet.

Speaking at the topping out ceremony, Dr. Li said, “We are delighted to introduce this important addition to the Central Business District, with the timely provision of attractive new retail and office space. Working closely with our architect, Aedas Limited, we have designed this building to enhance the environment of the surrounding area.”

To improve the surrounding environment and enhance visibility of the ground floor shops, Aedas Limited has set back the building frontage along Douglas Street, which abuts the MTR exit, and a wider pedestrian walkway will be created in front of the building. To maximise property value, the building’s retail area will be extended from the ground floor to the fifth floor with a total gross floor areas of more than 20,000 square feet.

Retail and office space will be for lease upon completion of the new grade-A building, which will help meet the demand for quality property in Central. Furthermore, in support of the Bank’s corporate social responsibility, the building is being assessed under the Building Environmental Assessment Method, and is expected to achieve a Gold rating or above.

Throughout the design process and selection of facilities, BEA has striven to create a safe, healthy, comfortable, functional, and efficient space for its inhabitants, visitors, and passers-by.