Vision Magazine
Your use of glass as a subtly patterned envelope is a
real key as expression and experience from within.
It’s first and foremost a glass building that has a certain
scale, form and interest. Like any material, glass needs
to be specifically interpreted for the task and that is what
occurred here. That envelope uses a coloured band on the
western elevation which facets the building’s scale, links
the sky and sunset and helps to make the most of its site.
What about thermal loads given it is such a standalone, exposed building?
Our facade engineers determined Viridian’s EVantageTM
met and exceeded section J requirements. In the end
there’s nothing especially complicated about the
product. It was economical and handled all of the
key performance criteria. The building’s orientation to
the north-east means that the main thermal loads are
restricted to the afternoon.
Was there a best and worst project moment?
We were asked to consider removal of a whole floor to
make more of a podium type building. There was some
uncertainty about leasing but we argued to retain that
floor-space and form. Value management is something we
often need to work through. We have to satisfy the needs
of the Department of Health and many other groups. It
can be a very complicated process to realize the actual
building. The best part is coming out the other end of that
maze with a building that can hold its head high.
How does glass help achieve your design aims?
It is critical to the chameleon affect you see. Of an evening
it reads as a very horizontal object, while during the day
the roof-top ribs lend a more vertical expression. There
are other abstracted elements that contribute a certain
sculptural quality. Our choice of glazing also offers this
very deep contrast of blue and a subtle yellow tone.
Is there a simple test you apply to these projects
to establish if they’re a success or failure?
Every project and client is different. You can’t
formularize design and we would never try and
repeat any of our projects.
And client reaction?
They’re over the moon. It justifies their willingness
to take an informed risk and the result is an all-round
win – most of all for staff, patients and visitors.
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