This technologically advanced, sustainably focused new Civic and Administration Centre is located at Nhill, in western Victoria. Over 80% of the existing building’s materials were recycled.

Laminated timber from locally sustainably sourced timber was used instead of steel for structural purposes. The building is double the size of the one it replaced, yet uses 60% less electricity.

A number of innovations not only minimise embodied energy and energy loadings within the building, but also reduce carbon output for life. Heating and cooling in a region of extreme temperature conditions was a priority.

An underground thermal chamber and earth pipe heat exchange draws fresh air into PVC pipes, heating or cooling it from the earth before it enters a traditional under-floor air distribution system, reducing the heating and cooling load of the entire system. 

Passive solar design, cross-flow ventilation, 72 solar panels and zoned motion-detecting LED lighting further reduce energy consumption. An electronic control and monitoring system tests the effectiveness of energy minimisation, so the positive impact of the building’s systems can be measured and documented over time. These statistics are displayed in the entry foyer, a constant reminder to the community of the effectiveness of sustainable building design.