Archetech Issue 40 2019 | Page 14

ENERGY EFFICIENT DESIGN HAS BEEN FUNDAMENTAL THROUGHOUT THE PROJECT’S DEVELOPMENT The raw material was sourced through BinderHolz in Austria, a CLT provider whose production sites meet and are certified under strict PEFC standards. Their no-waste principle during fabrication means that 100% of every logged tree is used. Production by-products such as bark, cut-off pieces, wood chips, sawdust and shavings are processed into biofuels in the form of pellets and briquettes or converted into climate-neutral thermal energy or green electricity. Such highly efficient and streamlined fabrication processes, currently not available in Australia, offset the embodied energy generated through transportation to a large degree. Energy efficient design has been fundamental throughout the project’s development. The staggered arrangement of buildings within the masterplan as well as the building’s façade articulation aids natural ventilation by creating different pressure zones along the face. Zonal control of the mechanical ventilation allows for reduction of energy use. All residential corridors have access to natural light and ventilation, providing air to the units and further reducing the need for mechanical ventilation. Mechanical services have been specifically designed for the additional air tightness achieved in this mass timber building, thus reducing ongoing operational costs for heating and cooling. Continuous carbon storage within the significant volume of mass timber used in the building further reduces its carbon footprint, during its construction and in future operation. The proposal aspires to raise the bar not only in providing superior amenity to the user, but also spearheading sustainable construction technology through the use of CLT. The advantages of using this product are not only seen in the environmental benefits and speed of construction, but also in the upfront design resolution, ultimately resulting in an improved project outcome and a high quality end product. www.jacksonteece.com/