Melbourne is regarded as Australia’s cultural capital, thanks in part to the variety of architectural styles across the city.
Consumer trends are shifting, and a move to sustainable initiatives in designing structures is heavily influencing modern architectural styles. We take a look at four Melburnian architects leading innovations in sustainability.
The building is split into smaller building blocks that create thinner structures to bring natural light to the floor space, reducing the need to have electric lights on.
Positioned for optimal sun exposure, the hospital’s eastern blocks get morning light, while northern and western blocks get afternoon light. This means all parts of the building receive direct sunlight.
A riverbed circling the building captures rainwater to water the gardens, while solar panels generate power. In conjunction with a gas-fired generator, the building is able to work off the grid if needed.
Kristen Whittle wants to see how the Green Star ratings can be better understood and continue to become a part of building protocol. He says the Royal Children’s Hospital embodies “creating environments within an architectural expression, in the way buildings are planned that generates buildings for the long term”.
The hospital has been designed to allow for additional blocks to be built without disrupting the existing structure.
Shopping centres aren’t usually sustainable. But recent developments at Chadstone Shopping Centre have meant the iconic fashion capital is the first retail development to be awarded a five-star Green Star Rating.
The extension of the shopping centre featured extensive daylight, which not only increases lighting quality but reduces energy consumed by lighting.
Central heating and cooling, LED lighting and intelligent control systems reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 71% while potable water use is reduced by 65% through a combination of rainwater collection, low-use water fittings and monitoring systems.
Reliance on motor vehicle usage is reduced by including cyclist features for staff and visitors, and integrating public transport within the centre.
“Rather than [just a] grand vision that relates back to architecture or buildings, it’s … the right thing for everybody to try and live minimally impacting the environment, the world and the resources that it has,” says The Buchan Group Melbourne Principal, Harvey Male.
“I certainly think it’s reached a tipping point in our industry.
“[But] if it becomes too much of a trend or fashion, then it’s missing the point. It shouldn’t be seen as that, it should just be the correct thing to do.”
This Dandenong co-development between disability support organisation, Wallara Australia, aged care specialist, Wintringham, and housing provider, Housing Choices, features a variety of sustainable initiatives.
The building has no internal corridors, reducing air-conditioned space by approximately 30%. This also reduces the materials needed during construction.
Solar panels are used for hot water preheating, with the option to add additional panels if required. The buildings are heavily insulated and double glazed, reducing the need for artificial heating.
Allen Kong believes there’s more to sustainable design than just the environmental aspects.
“Environmental sustainability must go hand in hand with social and economic sustainability. This project … makes the most of the materials – used in a way that supports the resident and staff.”
This apartment complex in Malvern features a variety of sustainable initiatives, both in the way it was constructed and how it uses resources after construction.
Locally sourced and recycled materials were used in construction, as well as non-volatile organic compounds in paints and finishes.
Energy-efficient heating and cooling and LED lighting help to reduce power usage, as well as the building’s position which maximises shade. Solar panels also allow the building to generate its own energy.
“The inspiration was to create an environmentally friendly building for the users of today and tomorrow, that is a leading example of how to minimise our carbon footprint in a cost-effective way” says Toby Ewert, Director of Ewert Leaf Architects.
On sustainable architecture, Tony says that “typically, buildings consume large amounts of materials, produce excessive waste and carbon emissions, which are detrimental to our environment.”
Sustainable architecture helps lessen buildings’ impact on our environment.
“By rationalising our natural resources, we can provide a positive contribution and help improve our environmental quality for future generations.”
Sustainable architecture is the future for Australian homes. With more architects like these, the future is also bright for local businesses.
