Work commenced in mid-2004 to re-design and re-engineer 40 Albert Road from an outdated, typical inner-Melbourne office of the 1980s, to a state-of-the-art green building. Following the brief, the initial plans were drawn-up and costed. Subsequently, the plans were re-drawn and re-engineered. They were constantly amended as more technological innovations and structural changes were developed.

Initial plans included:

• Double-skin, double glazed facade with motorised louvers and windows for natural ventilation
• Target-adjusted 3-4w/m2 lighting system using MLS, T5 and LEDs
• Roof to incorporate green, open air meeting spaces, PV, rainwater capture and Solar Hot Water
• IT system to be matched to PV source
• BMS front end for M & V metering, security access, CO2 monitoring
• Indoor Air Quality through filters, vacuum systems and non-toxic/low emission material selection
• Thermal cladding
• Zero churn costs through MLS and raised floor work station services delivery
• Rainwater to provide all water needs
• Vacuum based toilets, hand basins etc.
• Remove conventional ceiling plenum and use recycled raised floor system:
• Use slab interim for heating and cooling
• Increase work space volume: 400mm net height gain for offices
• Electrical/IT services delivery and individual workstation controls
• Ventilation and use of natural convection

Rejected plans include:

• Double Skin Façade
• Black Water
• Power Factor Correction
• Chilled Beams
• Raised Floors
• Service Pods

To read in more detail about the rejected plans click here.