Design for the next century

In the past three years, commercial architecture has undergone something of a metamorphosis as sustainability has become a key design driver. But it is not the only change workplaces have also evolved to provide greater efficiencies and better suit consultative, team-based work practices.

Leading architectural firm Rice Daubney is at the forefront of such moves the Centenary Square development in Brisbane reflects the company's innovative, flexible approach to commercial design.

Director Ari Pitkanen says Centenary Square, which is seen as a gateway project linking the CBD with Fortitude Valley, encapsulates the modern design principles associated with subtropical development.

"We wanted to emphasise lightness rather than mass, and lines rather than solidity," he says. "At the same time, in keeping with the concept of subtropical architecture, it was essential to present the building facade as a multilayered component that created different qualities of light and shade throughout the day."

The building was also designed to meet sustainable design principles. The recessed building facade is double glazed and features articulated sun shading to reduce solar gain and consequent energy usage.

Other key features include a campus-style internal courtyard and large, column-free floors with an average area of 2250m² per floor. The generous amount of glazing, which features specialised glass with significant thermal properties, maximises the natural light.

Rice Daubney is currently working on more than $3.6 billion worth of projects, ranging from town centres and commercial towers to hospitals and building refurbishments. The firm has established a strong reputation in Australia, with buildings such as the Queen Victoria Building, NRMA Tower, Optus Headquarters in NSW and Orion Springfield in Queensland.

Pitkanen says the team, which is comprised of more than 100 staff from more than 15 countries, takes a collaborative approach to ensure optimum solutions.

Awards include the Sir John Sulman Medal for Outstanding Architecture, multiple Property Council of Australia Awards and the 2008 QLD UDIA State President's Award for Excellence in Environmentally Sustainable Development Built Form.

For more information, contact Rice Daubney, 110 Walker St, North Sydney 2060, phone (02) 9956 2666; or 262 Adelaide St, Brisbane, phone (07) 3121 8200. Website: www.ricedaubney.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas