We have worked on a number of award-winning projects.
One of the most exciting project was The Global Change Institute at the University of Queensland. The building is noteworthy because it meets the world’s most advanced levels of sustainability. Read on to find out more about this innovative project …
A shift in mindset
The Global Change Institute was a pilot project for innovative sustainable solutions. The challenge was to find ways in which the space could use fewer resources, while contributing more to the regeneration of the environment. In line with this way of thinking, the team behind the project managed to create a building that actually generates more energy than it consumes. The space is naturally ventilated, collects its own power by means of solar panels, and stores up to 60,000 litres of rainwater.
A green success
The building is an excellent example of the fact that it is possible to create spaces that consume fewer resources than they use, and thanks to its innovative design, the Global Change Institute was awarded the Green Building Council of Australia’s 6-Star Green Star rating. It was also ranked number 34 in the world’s 50 most impressive environmentally-friendly buildings.
The features
The Global Change Institute has a number of impressive features, including thermal chimneys that draw warm air up and out of the building and draw cooler air in from the basement and outside. The three-panel translucent foil roof is made from Ethylene Tetra Fluoro Ethylene (ETFE) foil, which is extremely durable and heat resistant. The two external panels are monitored by light sensors and can inflate and compress like a cushion to block or expose sunlight. When the panels inflate, they let light in, while compression blocks light and reduces glare.
The building also boasts environmental sensors throughout the interior to monitor humidity and temperature. Together with a rooftop weather station, these sensors activate louvres and cooling systems. Each workstation has air vents, as well as plants that cool and clean the air. A hydroponic green wall uses rainwater and has no soil.
Another impressive feature of the building is the motorised sunshade that protects against sun and wind. The sunshades are programmed to deflect sunlight throughout the day, while a rooftop weather station and light sensors activate the shades to protect the building from wind and storms.
If you would like to see some more of the projects we have been involved in, have a look here.
If you would like to make use of our services for your own project, please don’t hesitate to get in touch