The ROCKCOTE Design Centre is a valuable community asset, built in 2004 as Australia’s first fully sustainable commercial development.
Based on core values of biomimicry, radical waste reduction, integration and non-compromise, the build was planned to achieve maximum efficiency with minimum external inputs. Emphasis was placed on creating high levels of comfort and beauty to engender wellbeing and improved productivity.
The buildings are orientated to allow winter sun into the main work areas, while being shaded and open to cool breezes in summer. The addition of a Big Ass brand fan in the recent upgrade helps to encourage air flow. External walls and roof areas are well insulated, the walls incorporating large volumes of thermal mass to moderate temperatures.
Energy: There are no moving parts, wires or posts, simply an array of silicon panels oriented towards the sun to provide the building’s energy needs.
Water: Rainwater is collected from the roofs and stored in tanks with around 100,000 litre capacity. Initial run-off is diverted to gardens by a first flush system and drinking water is processed through a micro filtration system. Reclaimed water is used for flushing toilets and irrigating the living walls and gardens.
The gardens: Newly replanted produce gardens and mature fruit trees will ultimately provide fresh organic food for staff and visitors. No herbicides, pesticides or chemical fertilisers are used on any ROCKCOTE site.
Major Awards:
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National President's Award, UDIA National Awards for Excellence, 2006
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Citation from the Environmental Protection Agency, 2005 - in recognition of leadership in sustainable practices
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Year of the Built Environment for Queensland - Government Award, 2004
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UDIA Champion Project for Sustainable Development, 2002
See Awards & Accolades for a full list of ROCKCOTE and ROCKCOTE Design Centre Awards.
