Breezway Head Office, Brisbane, Australia
HPC’s architectural design integrates lightweight construction with large areas of Breezway Altair Louvre Window products, in particular the Altair Powerlouvre Window in a Clear Anodised Breezway Easyscreen Window System with Sub Framing. These Powerlouvre Windows have been incorporated into a smart Building Management System to assist with energy savings in this sustainable commercial building. When combined with upper level mezzanine floors, the showcase of Altair Louvres provide building occupants with a feeling of space and unrestricted access to light and fresh air.
Greenleaf Engineers used environmental and thermal modelling technology to maximise natural light and ventilation into the building for extensive periods throughout the year to significantly reduce the need for artificial lighting and air conditioning.
To help achieve the environmental sustainable design strategy, passive solar design principles were taken into consideration prior to construction, including the orientation and shape of the building, material selection and selection of plant and electrical fixtures.
With land that has its long axis facing northwest, the building’s orientation was perfect for maximising the sun’s natural light and warmth. Heating and the electrical hot water unit were therefore removed from the project, cooling costs were reduced by 33%, and artificial lighting was reduced by 50% through the use of natural sunlight combined with energy efficient light fittings.
To coincide with the development of this innovative Head Office, cosmetic improvements were also made to the factory that was built in 1947 to further improve the appearance both inside and out. Factory roof restoration has been completed, along with a new despatch warehouse, refurbishment of the factory lunch room and amenities.
The new Breezway Head Office was a finalist in two categories of the 2011 UDIA Queensland Boral Awards for Excellence; ‘Small Retail/Commercial Building under 3000m2′ and ‘Excellence in Environmentally Sustainable Development’.
Project Date: April 2011
Architect – HPC Urban Design & Planning
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www.hpcurban.com.au
