From the early masterplanning phase the client Frasers property set out to create a sustainable housing model that would set new benchmarks for medium density residential developments in Western Sydney.

McGregor Coxall worked with the client team to develop and open space strategy that would facilitate a social and sustainable lifestyle. The design responds directly to the complex arrangement of natural assets such as mature Cumberland Plain woodland vegetation and typography left over from the sites previous use as a golf course. Natural stormwater filtration facilitates a highly contextual WSUD solution.

McGregor Coxall were engaged to lead the landscape architecture and open space design. Working from masterplanning through to construction supervision McGregor Coxall lead a number of specialiSed consultants developing a design response that de-engineers the drainage systems so that they become a key component of the proposed new community's identity and open space network.

During the concept design stage McGregor Coxall drove the discussions with Blacktown City Council in order to meet their maintenance and inspiration requirements. During the construction phase, the team coordinated civil design and led the site supervision attending site on a weekly basis.

DESIGN RESPONSE

Existing vegetation on the site consists of a unique ecological system of retained Cumberland Plain tree stands that define the site character. The design retained this character of the Cumberland Plain Woodland and combines these large trees with the water bodies providing not only a wonderful visual amenity but also an abundant habitat for a variety of native wildlife, in particular birds.

This strategy will not only assist in the retention and promotion of this unique ecosystem, which is under threat across Sydney, but will also provide the development with its defining landscape characteristic. Water movement through the site has always been a critical element in maintaining the sites vitality. Development over the years however, has seen these water paths engineered into defined channels. A key component to the landscape strategy is to re-engage these natural water systems back into the site's ecology through de-engineering.

SIX GREEN STAR

In 2014, Fairwater achieved a 6 Green Star Communities rating from the Green Building Council of Australia to position it as one of the country's most progressive environmentally friendly developments.  The achievement means Fairwater is the first project in New South Wales to be awarded a 6 Star Green Star - Communities rating - the highest possible recognition.

KEY INITIATIVES

  • From its conception, Fairwater has been synonymous with sustainability. The community's green credentials encompass everything from geothermal heating and cooling, to a strong materials and waste recycling focus and thoughtfully designed open spaces that promote healthy, active lifestyles.
  • A carefully conceived community development program and local infrastructure improvements were also integral to the 6 Star achievement, particularly given Fairwater's proximity to employment, services and public transport.
  • Frasers Property's recycling focus at Fairwater ensured more than 90% of all waste from construction was recycled. Excess topsoil was improved for re-use offsite, while materials used were produced through environmentally responsible processes and the design consideration focused on waste minimisation.
  • Other environmental initiatives at Fairwater include a riparian regeneration program that converted an old concrete lined drainage channel into a natural riparian creek line, a grey water system for use in toilets, laundry and irrigation, as well as a low solar reflectivity roof colour scheme on homes.
  • Of course, the geothermal heating and cooling technology is a key point of difference at Fairwater. It's the largest geothermal community in the southern hemisphere