THE overall standard of finished buildings in China is far inferior to that of projects completed in Hongkong, according to several local architects.
They cite poor-quality buildindifferences in work practices as the major factors in what they say are ''second-rate'' standards of construction.
''The building materials available in China are definitely not up to scratch,'' said one architect, who did not want to be named.
''Basic materials such as concrete, bricks and drainage pipes are all right but, when it comes to glass, aluminium, metal work and sophisticated finishes such as timber panelling and wallpaper, the quality is usually very bad.
''The only way to get around this is to import materials, but a lot of developers don't like to do this because it can be an expensive exercise.
''In many cases, those involved prefer to make do with the materials available in China, no matter how inferior they might be.'' Another source said it was inevitable that buildings in China were finished to lower standards than projects in Hongkong because the level of skill of local workers was generally lower.