The Spot, Melbourne University - Green building case studies - Green Building Council Australia (GBCA)

5 Star Green Star building

Spot is a purpose-built teaching and research centre

designed by architects Metier3

To improve indoor environmental quality, the project team worked closely with glass manufacturers to develop a unique high performance façade for the building. In an innovative approach, frit - a vitreous substance used in making porcelain, glazes or enamels - was applied to 50 per cent of the external surface. The result is a façade that both maximises daylight penetration and minimises solar heat gain.

Studies in the US have shown consistently that improved indoor air quality leads to better health outcomes, with reductions in illness symptoms ranging between 13.5 to 87 per cent.

The Spot delivers 100 per cent fresh air with a 200-250 per cent increase on AS rates

will help enhance student wellbeing and focus

Modular and soft-wired demountable partitions were installed throughout the academic accommodation areas of the building

gives a greater flexibility to the space without the need to perform remedial works, thereby reducing both waste and operational impacts

The Spot used 46 per cent less energy in its first year than comparable buildings across the rest of the University

This translates to savings of over $180,000 per annum compared to the average of equivalent buildings on campus

Bike racks and shower facilities installed

83% reduction in water use.