VISION 28 — BLACK DIAMOND
14
It's interesting that the client should request something
with such a glassy result, virtually pulling you along rather
than needing the big shove in that direction. Having done
so, the question arises, "Well yes, we'd love to provide a
lot of glass,” but how do you do so in a way that feels right
and actually is right for all of the roles that this building
must perform?
Well, for example the building offers a unique function
space for the very reason that it is so open internally and
so connected to the outside. Many function spaces have
limited viewing opportunities from within and focus solely
on events. This building really connects to the river, the oval
and back to the MCG.
WE HAD TO ENSURE
THE GLAZING COULD
PERFORM IN TERMS OF
SIZE, SUPPORT STRUCTURE
AND APPEARANCES
BUT ALSO FROM AN
ENERGY PERFORMANCE
VIEWPOINT.
Andrew Croxon, Architect
Your windows certainly guide occupants to experience
space as merging with the outside rather than confining
or blinkering the eye.
Visitors can now walk in the front door, up the main
staircase and look from the new building immediately
into the old building. There are two large sheets of glass
that allow that view straight into the Collingwood Training
Headquarters providing an unexpected connection
between the old and new. We also feel that the views from
the function centre towards the Botanical Gardens and
Yarra River provide a pleasant surprise. Views from the top
level towards the MCG from the main boardroom and that
large triangular inclined window creates some wow in its
own right. The opportunities for glazing placed the project
beautifully in its context.
These lofty volumes really reward the investment of fullheight windows and soaring glass. There's a generosity in
that, like the old piano accordion at full stretch. Interior
volumes really open up.
We definitely wanted to maximize the site opportunities.
Glass runs up above the ceiling lines where we've been able
to give that impression of continuity beyond and opening
up to the skies. That's reflected from the outside of the
building too, especially along that main facade.
What are some of the techniques and strategies you
employ to ensure this functions in a more sustainable
sense without simply meeting code?
We had an environmental engineer on the team and
followed a sustainable management plan throughout
the design process. Benchmarks were set very early
on. Function centres demand very efficient mechanical
systems. Energy modelling was undertaken on the building
to assess the impact of the glazing—which is significant in
the area, and ensure that the optimum performance was
achieved through the glazing specification and envelope
around the balance of the building.