TOORAK PAVILION meLBOURNE

Conceptual framework:

 

We set out to deliver the most sustainable multi-residential development possible to integrate with the riparian landscape of the Yarra River on this landmark site in Toorak, Melbourne – setback more than 30m from the north Yarra boundary and designed to respect both public realm interfaces and neighbouring properties with a receding form that steps down the sloping site. Substantial setbacks are provided to the river environs with a building height that addresses the relevant zoning and overlay controls.

 

The result is a site layout and building typology that is consistent with the emerging character of the area and which provides exceptional amenity for future residents without compromising that of neighbouring properties.

 

Apartments within the development will have common living areas and large balconies orientated to capitalise upon views towards the Yarra River. A centrally located atrium through the full height of the building together with side setbacks provides solar access to all areas.

 

Featuring expressed horizonal forms, balconies and landscaped terraces that present to the Yarra with rooftop terrace visible to St Georges Road comprising a part glazed, cantilevered roof form. Planters with landscaping by Jack Merlo Design & Landscape will soften all facades.

 

The project includes numerous leading Sustainable Design features that will demonstrate environmental best practice. Key aspects of the sustainable design proposed include the following:

 

• High performance building fabric and glazing.

• Maximum daylight levels to all spaces

• High performance air conditioning / Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) systems engineered to reduce energy consumption.

• Water conservation using high efficiency fixtures, rainwater harvesting and re-use of harvested water.

• Sub-metering and monitoring for energy and water.

• Solar Energy Harvesting

• Bicycle parking for residents and visitors

• EV charging with infrastructure for future provision.

• Water Sensitive Urban Design in accordance with best practice guidelines.

• Waste management of in-use operations.

• Extensive landscape featuring vertical planting elements.

 

Passive Design

The site characteristics and orientation can have a large effect on the amount of energy that is required to heat, cool and ventilate a dwelling. The orientation of the development, with the main building axis East to West, provides good opportunities for passive solar design in many apartments. The main facade faces North allowing good daylight in adjacent spaces.

 

Key considerations include glazing performance, increased insulation levels to building envelope, external shading (particularly balconies), daylight to north-facing spaces and thermal mass opportunities. High-performance glazing admits as much daylight as possible whilst allowing transmission of as much solar heat when needed. Double glazing will be applied throughout the dwellings in the development to meet minimum regulatory requirements and to provide effective solar control in combination with large overhanging balconies.

 

A highly insulative façade will assist to reduce loads for heating and cooling systems, support internal comfort conditions and provide resilience against fluctuations in external temperatures. By controlling solar heat gains in summer, preventing loss of heat in winter, and allowing occupants to reduce electric lighting use by making maximum use of daylight, the high-performance façade will help to reduce building energy consumption and peak energy demand.

 

All living areas and bedroom areas are provided with openable windows and/or sliding doors to enable natural ventilation for fresh air and comfort control. Natural ventilation is the process of supplying and removing air by means of purpose-provided apertures (such as openable windows) and the natural forces of wind and temperature-difference pressures. Natural ventilation systems are beneficial because it’s a no/low energy solution and can greatly improve indoor air quality by providing fresh air, along with providing occupants with a greater connection to the outdoors.

 

The apartments have been designed to benefit from natural ventilation in living and bedroom spaces with appropriate ventilation openings provided to each space. Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) supports the natural ventilation strategy.

 

Toorak Pavilion Melbourne sets a new benchmark for sustainable living and luxury in the city.