While the parameters may have changed, the values remain the same for the Commercial Architecture (Small) category for the 2021 Sustainability Awards. Changing criteria from a budget to a floor space limit, this category now presents myriad opportunities for those projects with cost no barrier.
As a result, without a theoretical ‘salary cap’ of sorts that we see in elite sport, architectural projects that meet the parameters in a Class 5, 6, 7 or 8 space, that is under or equal to 500 square metres in floor size, will be rightly awarded for their efforts. The practicality and functionality of a commercial space should not be compromised and so design is paramount when composing and organising a commercial space under or equal to 500 square metres – irrespective of the budget involved.
Last year, ZWEI Interiors Architecture and NH Architecture received accolades for their project, Acre Farm and Eatery, which is a subsidiary of the Burwood Brickworks Shopping Centre and winner of the 2020 Commercial Architecture (Large) and Best of the Best categories respectively. Acre Eatery is an urban rooftop farm showcasing ‘farm to table’ eating in an urban setting. With more than 2,500 square metres of rooftop space encased within a glasshouse, the site comprises hydroponic glasshouses, quail coops, worm farms and over 1,000 square metres of garden beds, all delivering fresh produce directly to the restaurant table at Acre Eatery.
All components for the Acre Farm and Eatery site were assessed against LBC Certification and were required to meet the rigorous LBC standards, an arduous and detailed process.
The design for the space was driven by the available approved materiality and limited budget for the site. The vision was to create a sophisticated, authentic food space that did not look overtly rustic yet met the necessary sustainable credentials for the site.
Autex Acoustics is the proud major sponsor of the Commercial Architecture (Small) category for 2021. A leader in sustainable practice within the design sphere, Autex’s corporate strategy places an emphasis on environmental and community initiatives, as well as embedding sustainability values into our business operating practices and products.
Autex Acoustics’ Group Technical & Sustainability Manager, Aidan Hill says the Sustainability Awards provides the company with the ability to make known its commitments to sustainable practice in the design industry.
“At Autex Acoustics, we believe the design and architectural communities have the power to drive sustainability forward in the built environment. But they can't do it alone. As a manufacturer and designer of architectural products, we're renewing our commitments and increasing action to reduce environmental impacts now, and in the future,” he says.
“The design community relies on us to provide sustainable products that make a positive, long-term difference – and we're on a mission to deliver on that commitment. The Sustainability Awards gives us a platform and opportunity to share this commitment with the community and highlight the importance of sustainability to Autex Acoustics, both in Australia and globally.”
The 2021 Sustainability Awards will build on what is already Australia’s longest-running and most prestigious awards program dedicated to acknowledging and celebrating excellence in sustainable design and architecture. If there is a project that meets the criteria of the Commercial Architecture (Small) category, let it be known by registering now.
