A new environmental awareness centre designed by Donaldson + Warn is the latest facility to be incorporated into Perth’s Kings Park and Botanic Garden.
Through the integration of the building and its site, the architectural firm has conveyed a distinct relationship between the new building and its surrounding natural environment.
The building’s curved plan and thermal mass maximises environmental awareness, allowing the summer sun to be shaded off the glass wall and winter sun is to warm the interior spaces. The double-glazed wall is also fitted with several double-glazed louver panels, which can be manually opened to allow fresh air to flow through the interior, or closed to retain the building’s internal warmth.
Image via Donaldson + Warn
Regularly used spaces are located on the northern side of the building while the least occupied or unoccupied areas, such as the store, kitchen and plant, are placed at the back of the building.
Low-voltage lighting has been used throughout the project and the interior finishes are recycled or biodegradable natural materials that do not emit toxic gas. An incorporated grid-connected solar array and solar water heater RTN will also limit greenhouse gas (CO2-e) emissions by an expected 30.2 tonnes per year.
Native flora has been planted to conceal the deep soil berm, which covers the concrete roof and works as a thermal insulator.
Image via Donaldson + Warn
Inside the centre, integrated artworks by Pam Gaunt will be featured, using coloured light to subtly portray a response to nature and the monitoring of solar energy collection.
From the car park at the top of the site, a ramp leads down to a covered entry terrace that opens out to the landscape. From here, the design opens onto an atelier and office. Intended for functions, the atelier is the home to the Botanic Parks and Gardens Authority’s environmental educational program.
The centre is expected to open mid 2012 as an addition to the Rio Tinto Naturescape, an education facility designed to reconnect urban children with nature.
