Dedicated to sustainability

A building may be shabby, old and neglected, but this need not mean it is only worthy of demolition. If the basic structure and the building materials are sound, then it could well be saved and reused.

This approach was taken by Wise in planning the development of its new national office in a neglected Hamilton warehouse. The condition of the building meant Wise could easily have justified pulling it down.

"However, we decided to take a more sustainable approach to the project and recycle as much of the building's structure and materials as possible," says Wise chief executive Julie Nelson.

"It wasn't the cheapest option, but it reflected our deep commitment to sustainability."

With the support of the project team and key partners, which included Arrow, Connell Wagner, Sekta Architects, Innerscape, Telecom Community Connection and Gen-i, the building was upgraded, with emphasis on the reuse of original materials. Kakariki House has now become the Waikato region's first certified green building after receiving a 4-Star Green Star rating under the Green Star NZ Office Design programme from the New Zealand Green Building Council.

Nelson says the Green Star rating is the start of a longer journey. "It's not just about having a green building; it's about working and living sustainably."

From air conditioning to recycling of rubbish, the building reflects Wise's commitment to strive towards a sustainable future. Air conditioning is controlled by a computerised building management system to get as much fresh air inside as possible. The hybrid system is highly energy efficient.

With no personal rubbish bins and centralised collection and recycling, staff are consciously trying to reduce waste. Recyclable carpet tiles, easy to individually fit and lift, cover the building's floors where the original concrete wasn't an option.

The atrium is a key feature, bringing natural light in and reducing energy consumption. A Danpalon roof maximises light inside and minimises glare. It also acts like double glazing, limiting heat loss.

Kakariki House is equipped with new technologies, including smart boards, room wizards and video conferencing facilities, which minimises travel requirements and the resulting carbon emissions.

Contact Wise Management Services, Kakariki House, 293 Grey St, Hamilton, phone (07) 857 1200, fax (07) 857 1296. Website: www.wisegroup.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas