VISION Issue 27 | Page 18

18 VISION 27 — THE OCTAGON Which is really such a big and important part of The Block, isn’t it? It’s the big story of The Block on a number of levels and the most basic one is that we’re constantly doing adaptive reuse of existing buildings. There’s some really good stories too with environmental and sustainable design, whether that’s adaptive reuse or products introduced on this show. We’re achieving terrific energy ratings too—through the roof. It’s a big part of an unsung story. Four series of The Block ago we had one of Melbourne’s first 8-Star buildings. That was a bit of a coup for us, and at the time Matthew Guy the then Planning Minister launched the Open for Inspections. We’re still achieving those kind of ratings and it’s become a standard for us and we’re lucky enough to continue that. We mightn’t always hit it, but we’re getting way above what’s needed. Once you’re beyond 8-stars and heading towards 10…! Adaptive reuse gives you a huge advantage over building from scratch. Adaptive reuse is a massive component of the star-rating system. We have to try and hit the performance criteria hard with insulation, low VOC carpets and you name it, paints, light fittings, water usage, water recycling, water harvesting, anything to do with the air conditioning. We really follow through quite aggressively. And yet you ensure designs that appear sharp rather than dowdy Green. I liken it to the cool guy walking down the street with the flares and the retro parka, a crazy beanie and out-there sunglasses. You think: “I want that look. That perks my interest”. That’s the opportunity presented with this building. We’ve really been able to have fun with this. The outside of the building is a testament to that, because each segment of the octagon appears like a fresh new building. That results from this stretching of the building without losing the building form. Each component has a different appearance that corresponds to its orientation and use. Above & Right Design individuality, rather than repetition is rewarded with diverse personalities revealed within the base building fabric.