Investment in tomorrow

To ensure the Bendigo Bank building would achieve world-class standards in environmental sustainability, meticulous attention to detail determined every aspect of the material selection and construction.

Probuild Constructions was the head contractor responsible for the new building and the refurbishment of Level 2 of the adjacent Fountain Court building. Construction manager Andrew Zinni says the company met the bank's requirements for most materials to be sourced within 200km of the site. And, in addition to a committed Probuild team of key staff, workers were drawn from the local community.

"Now that the three-year project is nearing completion, we have been told by members of the local construction industry that the experience gained by the local workers has had ongoing benefits for all construction in Bendigo. We like to think we have given something back to the community," says Zinni.

Other sustainable design requirements were more challenging, however.

"In the past, Probuild has delivered a number of projects with specific ESD outcome targets, but several of the sustainable installations for this project required an innovative approach. For example, the design of the building called for services to be installed beneath the floors and above the ceilings. This required a different construction system to be adopted."

Zinni says the use of the under-floor air highway system is unusual in Australia, because many buildings do not have the raised floor required for the ductwork.

"We believe this is one of the first large-scale applications of the technology in the country. Under-floor air conditioning provides fresh, clear air at low pressure, and the number of outlets enables areas to be controlled locally to suit individual needs."

Another interesting aspect of the construction was the design of the shading screens on the western and northern facades. Substantial wind tunnel testing was undertaken, and the design and fastening system modified to ensure the pierced shades would not whistle in the wind.

Zinni says installation time was reduced because Probuild, with subcontractor Permasteelisa, devised a method of prefabrication whereby the shades were mounted to the window panels, so both windows and shades were fitted in one installation.

Probuild and its subcontractors also installed solar panels on the roof, high-performance double glazing and operable roller blinds. These are designed to block the sun from different angles depending on the time of the day, reducing heat transfer and glare.

Construction was staged to enable staff to move into part of the new building at an early stage.

For more details, contact Probuild Constructions, 230 Albert Rd, South Melbourne, Vic 3205, phone (03) 9693 8222. Website: www.probuild.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas