The Meridian Building, which is situated in the Kumutoto
precinct on Wellington’s waterfront, was New Zealand's first 5 Green Star rated
building. The flagship green commercial project was designed by Studio Pacific
Architecture in association with Peddle Thorp Architects, and it incorporates a
wide range of cutting-edge sustainability initiatives, making it one of the
country’s most advanced green buildings. The design cleverly integrates
elements from the heritage waterfront Sheds nearby into a contemporary piece.
The Meridian Building‘s design seeks to integrate it into its
maritime environment, as well as in the historical context of its neighbors.
Expressed as two separate forms, the side facing the Sheds features
richly-colored and textured external louvers, while the other side is a
cantilevered white volume that floats above the water. This cantilevered action
creates a larger and shaded public plaza, which is an extension of the
waterfront area. Each facade was expressly designed to respond to its
particular orientation with respect to solar heat gain, heat loss, natural
light, wind and view. Louvers on the north wall moderate solar gain, while a
heavily insulated south wall with small windows minimizes loss.
Daylighting, passive ventilation, an efficient chilled beam
mechanical heating and cooling system, solar hot water heating, lighting and
occupancy sensors, and thermal mass all help the building achieve a 60% lower
annual energy consumption than a typical New Zealand office building. Rainwater
harvesting collects water for use in toilets and low-flow fixtures are used
throughout to reduce potable water use by 70% compared to average buildings.
Sustainable materials with low VOC finishes, recycled content and sustainable
sources. The Meridian Building was also constructed out of partially-recycled
cement. New Zealand’s first 5 GreenStar rated building has also be the
recipient of a number of other architecture awards since its completion.
Courtesy: inhabitat
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