Located near the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, within the ‘New Acton, Nishi Project’ development, this integrated fit-out was designed to achieve a 6-Star Green star rating under the Green Building Council of Australia accreditation. The fit-out demonstrated leading edge sustainable environmental initiatives including living walls, recycled timber, low VOC paints and carpets, a carbon dioxide monitoring and control system, and natural ventilation modes.
Canberra Director David Warren said; “we worked in close collaboration with environmental consultants to achieve the 6-star Green star rating within the client’s budget. We met the client’s expectations by providing the greatest efficiency gains at minimum cost.”
At a total fit-out cost of $21 million, the department occupies a total NLA of 12,250m2 over 7 floors. Providing working accommodation for 750 employees, the fit-out provides contemporary office accommodation with a high-level amenity for both staff and visitors. The fit-out demonstrates opportunities for the adoption of leading edge sustainable environmental initiatives that are practical and cost effective.
The tenant Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency (DCCEE) commissioned Wilde and Woollard Canberra directly for cost planning and cost management services. Project Director David Warren was a sworn witness at the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works (PWC), providing expert advice before the committee passed an expediency motion allowing the project to commence. The fit-out construction works began in March 2012 and were completed in December 2012.
The Wilde and Woollard Canberra office has considerable recent experience in providing expert witness services at PWC hearings for major construction projects. Past clients include the Department of Defence and the Attorney-General’s Department.
Image: Tim Coleman (with permission)