Looking after the future

An organisation whose vision and passion is to conserve the environment, improve the environmental performance of business and industry and encourage sustainable development will require headquarters that reflect these principles.

Architectural practice Studio 39, a specialist division of ThomsonAdsett, has recently designed new headquarters for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), working with both the agency as tenant and with a longtime client, Port of Brisbane Corporation, as building owner.

Project architect Phil Horwood says with a client who was passionate about sustainability and a design team and builder who were also committed to the idea, the team was able to achieve a quality outcome.

A range of innovative sustainable measures, including the use of circulated harbour water to pre-cool the air conditioning air intake, secured the design a 5-Star Green Star rating. The building was also designed to maximise natural light and ventilation, and to provide workers with the best possible outlook. To supplement natural light, artificial lighting is zoned with sensors so lights turn off if no one is in the area, or if daylight is above a certain level. Air conditioning is integrated into desking so individuals can control it. This improves energy efficiency, ensures fresh air is directed to staff and minimises the spread of contaminated air.

"We believe in the power of design to transform lives for the better. Our buildings are more than bricks and mortar; we work hard to understand each client's vision and integrate that into our design process, so every solution we develop is different and alive. Our buildings are sustainable and respond to their context in every way," says Horwood.

ThomsonAdsett's director of sustainable design Don Marshall says that functional requirements, local climate, legislation and budget will all impact on the range and type of measures that are included.

"No longer can a building owner or developer ignore the issues of sustainability entirely. In fact, I believe that the smart ones are embracing it wholeheartedly for its positive long-term impact on the bottom line," he says.

For more information, contact ThomsonAdsett Studio 39, phone (07) 3840 9980. Or visit the website: www.thomsonadsett.com.

Story by: Trendsideas