Here's to the future

I t makes sense that a community-minded health learning facility is housed in a building designed to minimise impact on our energy resources.

The design of The University of Auckland's Population Health Complex offers a forward approach to mixing academic facilities and public clinics. It also emphasises energy-efficiency, says university development manager John Lander.

Architectus Auckland designed the complex, working with structural engineer Structure Design and service engineer Connell Mott McDonald.

Lander says sustainability was integral to the design which features energy efficient air conditioning and lighting systems that can save up to 40% on power costs. The complex includes a climate-responsive fae§ade to minimise solar gain, a highly insulated enclosure, and good levels of natural light and ventilation also save energy.

A sense of community is at the heart of the complex. Light-filled atriums link the top three levels, while a cafe also encourages communal interaction.

The complex was built by Fletcher Construction and project managed by Carson Group. Lander says the project team's commitment ensured the facility was created to exacting standards and to an extremely tight programme.

Story by: Trendsideas