This approach took a rare opportunity to examine the Hong Kong Harbour in a series of reviews and design studies for the Hong Kong Business Forum, an association of progressive and forward thinking private sector entities. The various efforts, taking place over the course of two years and commissioned to help the Government understand the interests of the business community, involved critiques and comprehensive design guidelines for all waterfront areas of the island city. The guidelines’ holistic approach focuses on the relationships between environmental, connectivity and economic development issues, and offers strategic recommendations for the planning and design of waterfront areas, with an emphasis on long-term implementation and applicability in real-world situations. While performed on behalf of the business community, the sustainability guidelines prioritise the intimate intersection between the public interest and the health of Hong Kong’s businesses. At the same time, they closely reflect the Harbour Planning Principles set forth by the Government’s own advisory body, the Harbour Enhancement Committee.