Future perfect
A 5-Star Green Star rating was achieved through careful planning and construction by Probuild Constructions
Achieving the best possible result for any project requires the flexibility to be able to review and revise plans and methods, even after work is under way.
When Probuild Constructions won the design and construction contract for the $23m 370 Docklands Drive development, the plan was to meet a 4-Star Green Star Certified Rating. However, in the early stages of the project, Austcorp and the team at Probuild decided a 5-Star rating was achievable.
"Melbourne's Docklands is becoming a showcase for some of the most innovative new commercial developments in Australia, and our aim was to design and build this project to extremely high environmental and efficiency standards," says Probuild's project manager Matt Bready.
"Even though construction had already commenced, we quickly reviewed all relevant Green Star criteria and implemented further environmental initiatives during the design documentation phase."
Increasing the Green Star Rating from 4 to 5 stars required the addition of a black water treatment and recycling system. Chillers that had already been specified were upgraded to increase their efficiency and a more efficient lighting system was incorporated. Other initiatives, such as incorporating CO2 monitoring, refrigerant leak detection and refrigerant recovery, were also implemented.
While high-performance glass had already been specified to be used for the facade, this was upgraded again and replaced by a glass that offered even better thermal performance without reducing light to the interior spaces.
To achieve the improved star rating, some materials had to be sourced from overseas.
"We managed these longer lead times with smart planning. We simply ordered the materials much earlier in the process, during the curtain wall design phase, so the changes did not have any negative impact on the construction programme. In fact, even with the changes, we were still able to complete the project on time and within budget.
"To keep to the schedule, our team constantly reviewed its methodology and reprogrammed work to ensure preset targets were met," says Bready.
For further information, contact Probuild Constructions, 230 Albert Road, South Melbourne, Vic 3205, phone (03) 9693 8222, fax (03) 9693 8233. Website: www.probuild.com.au.
Story by: Trendsideas
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