Ideas that move the world need the right location and Melbourne Connect provides it. Featuring an open, accessible architecture, this building complex in the Australian metropolis of Melbourne unites digital technologies and ecological know-how. And Geberit is on board.
The University of Melbourne created Melbourne Connect as a centre for research into technologies of the future and for the transfer of know-how between science and business in the heart of the Innovation District in Melbourne. Open since April 2021, Melbourne Connect is much more than a mere building space: it is also a meeting place, a co-working space, a centre for start-ups, a childcare centre for 90 children and a student residence with 376 apartments.
Sustainability in practice
Naturally, the building is intended to contribute to solving the problems of modern society: reducing the concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere, being economical with water use, and conserving natural resources. Melbourne Connect has been awarded 6 Green Stars by the Green Building Council of Australia for its sustainable concept. In addition, the building complex was awarded 5 out of 6 stars for its energy efficiency and 4.5 star NABERS Rating for its water-saving performance.
The specially developed design of the façades optimises the building’s exposure to sunlight and the use of daylight. Sensors measure the climate parameters inside the building and control energy requirements. The data-based control alone results in a reduction of energy consumption by 33 per cent. Incidentally, the energy is obtained geothermally and via solar systems.
Naturally with Geberit
Thanks to a reuse of rainwater, drinking water is saved too – by an impressive 20 per cent. This conscious saving of water is particularly important in Australia, where climate extremes are now becoming more frequent. That’s why rainwater is also seen as a valuable source of water at Melbourne Connect.
Geberit’s expertise is of great benefit when it comes to wastewater drainage. In two of the three towers at Melbourne Connect, the wastewater is drained using the Geberit SuperTube system. This Geberit product saves space, material and resources, making its own contribution to environmental protection.
The project at a glance
Building Owner: University of Melbourne
Architect: Woods Bagot
Hydraulic Contractor: AXIS Services VIC
Hydraulic Consultants: JRS Engineering
Specified products: Geberit SuperTube drainage system with Geberit HDPE piping solutions
