Estimating the cost of a complete green façade project isn’t as simple as adding up the cost of the structure, substrate and plants. The client’s brief for the green façade, which outlines their design requirements and expectations, plays a major role in the final cost.
The client will have their own expectations of the look and function of the facade and each requirement will have a cost implication depending on the complexity. For example, a multi-storeyed building is naturally going to be more complex than a low-rise one; the difference between working on the ground and in the air can be as much as 15-20% of the total cost.
Cost considerations:
Construction methodology
The choice of construction methods and equipment will depend on the design of the green façade, the size of the building and accessibility among other factors. A very tall building, for instance, may involve the use of swing stages, scaffolding, building maintenance units, cranes and lifts, all of which will add to the cost.
Labour
Complicated projects will cost more in terms of labour. A large and complex building may require more labour than a low rise building.
Time
Getting a green façade installed on a tall building will take time, adding to the cost of both equipment and labour. Materials also need to be packed and stored in such a way that they can be quickly accessed to avoid project delays. Some projects can take years from start to finish while others will be completed in a matter of weeks.
The following case studies demonstrate the different time and labour factors involved in two projects.
Case Study 1: One Central Park Sydney
One Central Park Sydney is a 34-storey building and the main challenge involved safely moving people and materials vertically. The methodology required the 1500m² installation to be executed from the inside out, which increased the complexity. The building project employed about 1,500 workers onsite, which meant lifts were slow, and workers often decided to save time by using the stairs instead. The project took several years to complete.
Case Study 2: Platinum Towers Melbourne
This 1,200m² project involved taking people and materials up to level 10 of the building and craning them down. This methodology was very efficient and saved on labour and equipment costs. The project was completed within three weeks.
Site assessment for costing
These examples highlight the importance of proper and accurate site assessments. As an experienced specialist in green facade systems and installations, Tensile conducts a thorough assessment of the site before providing a quote on the cost of installing any green structure according to the client’s specifications.
