Adaptive reuse project forecasts significant reduction in embodied carbon
As Australia heads towards a target of net zero emissions by 2050, sustainable businesses have a crucial role to play in driving the nation forward.
That’s why our innovative new development at Spring Hill, Brisbane is so important.
The project, to convert a 1970s commercial building into a suite of residential apartments, will shine the spotlight on adaptive reuse - a form of sustainable urban renewal giving new life to existing buildings with economic, environmental, and socio-cultural benefits.
By repurposing the structure and using existing materials rather than sourcing new ones, we forecast a significant reduction in embodied carbon.
Let’s talk numbers.
Our concept retains 1,685,016 kg of the existing concrete structure, which helps save over 1,500 tonnes of CO2.
This is the equivalent of:
· Charging 100 million iPhones
· Driving 6,174,008 kms in an average vehicle
· Burning 1,653,115 pounds of coal
· The energy use of 196 homes for one year
· Recycling 74.4 garbage trucks of waste
· Planting 25,000 tree seedlings grown over a 10-year period
· 19.9 tanker trucks worth of gasoline
· Flying round-trip from New York to London 2,500 times
· Operating 1 wind turbine for 2.5 years
· Switching 57,000 incandescent light bulbs to LED bulbs
· Powering 192,308 LED TVs for a year
· Using 31,579 barrels of oil
· Charging 192 billion AA batteries
In addition, our focus on solar and natural ventilation, including eaves, shading control and screening (instead of being overly reliant on aircon), reduces the operational carbon footprint of the building.
Not only does our commitment to these sustainable practices demonstrate a proactive approach to environmental responsibility, but it also creates a more resilient and eco-friendly home.
What’s more, focusing on sustainability doesn’t mean compromising on sophistication.
After conversion, each apartment will include up to four bedrooms, each with an ensuite, a gourmet kitchen with butler’s pantry, study, and luxury fittings and finishes. The five-bedroom penthouse will have a second storey at rooftop level with lounge, bar, wine cellar and expansive outdoor living, including an exclusive use swimming pool.
Designed by architects Cera Stribley, the building will feature basement parking, generous common areas, a private lift, cascading greenery and a New York-style entrance lobby.
While we have always aspired to undertake a project like this, finding the right site was no easy feat. However, that shouldn't deter those in our industry and policymakers from continuing to explore ways to make adaptive reuse more widespread.
By embracing such innovative approaches, we can create a more sustainable and liveable future for our communities.
Find out more about our Spring Hill project here.