Minimal HVAC ( Air Conditioning ) Usage The mixed mode system is based passive ( nonenergy consuming ) ventilation mechanisms , and is intended to be used in passive mode for up to 82 % of the year . Several of the design initiatives implemented to achieve this intended outcome are unique . Starting from first principles design , the zigzag shaped engineered timber façade ingeniously orientates the glass windows towards the north or south , which prevents lower angle sun from the east or west from entering the office spaces . This both provides natural daylight and also importantly reduces patches of hot sunlight that could lead to overheating and glare .
Thermally Activated Building System Technology ( TABS ) Pipes that contain recirculated water ( TABS ) are installed into the floor slabs , which cools the exposed concrete soffits ( ceilings ) above the working areas of the building . The cooler soffit hence cools the air below , which circulates around the workspace . TABS is another important contributor to the mixed mode climate control system at work inside the building . Using TABS in conjunction with cross ventilation through the opening windows extends the time that only natural ventilation can be used in the building , up to the designed 82 % based on an adaptive comfort model .
All these measures mean that people inside the building will experience steady indoor ambient temperatures which respond slowly to outdoor temperature variations . The mixed-mode system design aims for the building ’ s conventional air conditioning system to be active for only 18 % of the year . This is in line with international standards such as WELL™ , in promoting occupant productivity and thermal comfort .
Lighting Natural lighting includes the impressive roof lights above the atrium which allow optimal levels of natural light . This adds to conventional lighting on each floor . Low-energy LED lighting is suspended between acoustic panels to provide a stimulating work environment while the panels provide appropriate levels of sound absorption for work and leave enough of the concrete soffit exposed to allow the TABS to cool the spaces below .
26 The Ridge