greener pastures

Environmental and services engineering specialists Umow Lai worked alongside architects Lyons to integrate the environmental features of the design.

Umow Lai is committed to the advancement of innovative and cost-effective, low-energy and green building design. The company has implemented this commitment into the Hume City Council building, says associate director Shane Esmore.

"Integration of architectural and engineering expertise in the conceptual planning of this building, and its thermal, visual and indoor environment, has resulted in a high-performing, yet cost-effective green building."

These processes included the orientation of the building to optimise solar exposure, and the layout of the floor plan to maximise daylight in the offices. External sunshades reduce heat through the windows and act as light shelves, bouncing daylight deep into the interior of the building. Rain and grey water recycling methods meant the building gained maximum water credits under Green Star.

A key feature of the project is the use of Underfloor Air Distribution (UFAD) that distributes air throughout the building at a low velocity through a raised floor, with open stairs at either end of the office space acting as return air shafts.

"This system is very energy efficient. It allows individual comfort control and better indoor air quality."

For information, contact Umow Lai, 10 Yarra Street, South Yarra, Vic 3141, phone (03) 9249 0288, fax (03) 9249 0299. Website: www.umowlai.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas