For every major commercial development, there is a compact, innovative development that doesn’t grab the headlines as a big city skyscraper does. These smaller spaces house startups, small-scale companies and brands that contribute to the economy in their own lanes.

Everyone has to do their bit in our efforts to drive down emissions and global warming. That’s why Architecture & Design champions the efforts of architecture practices that create these smaller commercial spaces. We encourage this through the Sustainability Awards’ Commercial Architecture (Small) category.

ona coffee

To be eligible, one must put forward a Class 5, 6, 7 or 8 building used for professional and / or commercial purposes of under or equal to 500 square metres in floor size. There are no parameters for budget, we just simply ask for the best in sustainable, thoughtful design that also ensures the client can carry out their business as they desire.

Breathe Architecture’s ingenious design for Ona Coffee’s operations in Melbourne received the accolade in the Commercial Architecture (Small) category for 2021. Sustainability is at the core of everything that Ona Coffee does. As part of their commitment to creating a more sustainable future, Ona engages in several projects globally to help reduce their carbon footprint and become a net-zero coffee roaster in the near future. Ona is an adaptive re-use project, using as much of the existing building fabric as possible with recycled and locally sourced materials throughout.

Pride of place is the espresso bar clad in recycled brick offcuts diverted from landfill. Sustainability features include being 100 percent electric, induction cooktops, 20kW of solar on the re-insulated roof with remaining energy requirements provided by 100 per cent GreenPower. A rigorous carbon audit was undertaken to offset any greenhouse gas emissions and 5000 litre rainwater tanks, organic waste streams, natural light and ample bike parking were incorporated into the design.

ona coffee

Big Ass Fans (BAF) is the sponsor for the Commercial Architecture (Small) category. A company of international standing, BAF is a supplier to commercial projects of all shapes, sizes and purposes through its extensive range of fans. BAF’s care for the environment is evidenced through their high-volume, low-speed (HVLS) system which is extremely efficient and modest in output.

Calling all architects who have created a Class 5, 6, 7 or 8 building under 500 square metres to submit their entries for a chance to win the Commercial Architecture (Small) award. Entries are now open, so begin putting together your application now!

Jarrod Reedie

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