This publication is a reference document that presents a review of the principles and practice related to design and construction of foundation, with specific reference to ground conditions in Hong Kong. The information given in the publication should facilitate the use of modern methods and knowledge in foundation engineering. The Geotechnical Engineering Office published in 1996 a reference document (GEO Publication No. 1/96) on pile design and construction with a Hong Kong perspective. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on the use of rational design methods in foundation engineering. Many high-quality instrumented pile loading tests were conducted, which had resulted in better understanding of pile behaviour and more economic foundation solutions. The Geotechnical Engineering Office sees the need to revise the publication to consolidate the experience gained and improvement made in the practice of foundation design and construction. The scope of the publication is also expanded to cover the key design aspects for shallow foundations, in response to the request of the practitioners. Hence, a new publication title is used.