Jury comment
This year’s Sustainability Advancement category had an incredible diversity of projects, from residential to workplace to retail. The jury was impressed by 17 Union Street for expertly meeting all of the sustainability criteria both aesthetically and functionally, and for also supporting the idea of community and precinct as a form of social sustainability. It champions longevity and the importance of thinking about sustainability in regards to long-term building use rather than short-term compliance. The judges unanimously agreed it is an excellent example to which developers can realistically aspire.
Design statement
Located within Jewell Station Village in Melbourne, 17 Union Street by Neometro includes 39 apartments and a retail and public realm development. With architecture by BKK Architects and interiors by Clare Cousins Architects, it’s a building that will wear “in, not out” and support wellbeing and connection in the community.
Sustainable living at 17 Union Street is about creating infrastructure that supports resilient communities whilst incorporating environmentally sustainable design principles into the built form. 17 Union Street prioritizes materials in their raw form, avoiding applied finishes, toxic coatings and imminent maintenance. The project includes a rooftop compost station and an edible garden, as well as planting workshops from local experts to share knowledge and ensure vitality. Open air corridors contribute to cooling in the summer, limiting the requirement for mechanical systems. And apartments are planned to maximize natural light and cross-flow ventilation, prioritizing passive design principles.
Built on the land of the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation
Project credits
Design practice — BKK Architects
Project team — Simon Knott, George Huon, Deb Adams, Ange Rosato, Ewan Carson, Kanyanta Chipanta; Clare Cousins Architects: Clare Cousins, Brett Wittingslow
The Award for Sustainability Advancement supported by Elton Group. The Australian Interior Design Awards are presented by the Design Institute of Australia and Artichoke magazine. For more images of this project, see the Australian Interior Design Awards gallery.
