Southern Eastern Centre of Sustainability, Melbourne, Australia
Location:
Melbourne, Australia
Year:
2021
Type:
Multi-Purpose Space, Public Space
Status:
Arch. Competition
Size:
1.050 sqm
Set to be built in a captivating site in Kackeraboite Creek in Melbourne, the “Southern Eastern Centre of Sustainability (SECS)” is designed to have a minimum carbon footprint and reflect the core values of the Australian non-profitable environmental organisation.
The overall concept of the sculptural articulation of the building aims to create an identifiable structure that blends naturally with the surrounding environment. The wooden construction and circular motifs make reference to the architecture of the Aboriginals and the history of the continent.
The Visitor Centre contains multi-purpose exhibition spaces, office, laboratory, workshop, lecture, performance and virtual reality spaces as well as a coffee shop and restaurant with indoor and outdoor spaces. Most of the rooms feature panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, while the design of the building blends the borders between interior and exterior.
The walkable roof is accessible to the public and is designed as a botanical garden for the preservation, site research and education display of local flora and fauna. A cluster of sculptural wooden structures appear as trunks of trees, integrate pv panels, encourage bird nest hosting and function as shading devices.