CWA were asked to deliver a carbon neutral building that would make the most out of its site, re-introducing the surrounding native wetland environment. Thus, the building sits over an engineered water ecosystem, which was the result of a liaison and collaboration with National Parks, Environmental Agencies, State and Local Government.
The project's design combines in-situ and precast concrete, which has been engineered and insulated, incorporating a total solar panelled roof to provide for a cool ambient temperature all year-round. "The design utilises massive cantilevers to mitigate impact from potential flooding and king tide inundation associated with cyclonic activity," state the architects, pointing out how the project is meant to withstand intense cyclones.
A series of environmental and sustainable decisions have been incorporated into the project, which can harvest and recycle a total of 250,000 litres of water; generates and uses solar energy; features an on-site sewage treatment plant and grey water system; and a cooling and energy conservation system controlled through a building automation system.
Architects: Charles Wright Architects
Location: northern Queensland, Australia
Completion: 2012
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