BDAV News August2017

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VOLUME 22 • EDITION 7 • AUGUST 2017

T H E O F F I C I A L M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B U I L D I N G D E S I G N E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F V I C T O R I A

new BDAV Building Design of the Year 2017 Killara by Junctions 90

James Hardie Australia – proudly supporting BDAV Print Post Approved PP: 100001216


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BDAV NEWS

Welcome This month we celebrate the winners of the BDAV’s 2017 Building Design Awards, at which Killara by Junctions 90 took out the top honours. See our pictorial feature on the BDAV Annual Dinner at which the Awards were announced. We also have most of your favourite regular features, plus lots of industry news.

In This Edition.... Cover Story: Killara – Building Design of the Year 2017..................................................... 3 Industry News: Winners: BDAV Building Design Awards 2017.............................................................. 7 BDAV Annual Dinner – a Pictorial Review....................................................................... 8 Student Award Winners 2017..................................................................................... 11

Enjoy the read!

Members Recognised................................................................................................. 12

Giselle Grynbaum Editor

Students Recognised.................................................................................................. 13 CSIRO Bulletin re NatHERS Tools................................................................................ 17 News from the Membership Officer’s Desk................................................................. 21 COLORBOND® steel Launches New Colours........................................................... 23

BDAV News

Targett Positive Legacy Design Award......................................................................... 25 How to Future Proof your Home When Building or Renovating................................... 28

Produced by Giselle Grynbaum for Building Designers Association of Victoria Inc PO Box 174, Carlton South VIC 3053 Web: www.bdav.org.au Phone: (03) 9416 0227 Email: info@bdav.org.au Editor: Giselle Grynbaum

Winners Announced for Dulux Design Tour................................................................. 29

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Tim Adams Todd Pearce Giselle Grynbaum

Energy in Buildings: 50 Best Practice Initiatives............................................................ 43 VBA News:

DISCLAIMER

Planning Tidbits:..................................................................................................18

The views expressed in BDAV News are those of the contributors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Building Designers Association of Victoria. Products and services advertised herein are not necessarily endorsed by the BDAV. Whilst every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, neither the BDAV nor the publisher nor any person contributing to this publication shall incur any liability in respect to any information contained herein, nor for any errors or ommissions which may occur in this publication. Contributions are welcome, and should be emailed to the Editor to info@bdav.org.au.

COVER PHOTO Christine Francis

The Growing Trend of Using Brick for Patterned Designs............................................ 31 Wall Wrap for Lightweight Clad Construction .............................................................. 33 Renovation Tips and Insights....................................................................................... 35 Look Up and Enjoy – Gargoyles.................................................................................. 39 NCC to be Amended Out-of-Cycle............................................................................. 41 Australia’s First Official Guide to Cooling Cities Launched............................................ 42

Don’t Let Your Building Registration Expire................................................................... 27 Vital Practitioner Resource on Fire Performance of External Walls and Cladding.......... 37 Insurance Issues: CSIRO Determination has Potential Impact for Energy Raters’ PI Insurance...............17 Marketing Matters: Content Marketing and Your Building Design Practice............................................15 Job Market...................................................................................................................... 41

BDAV Sponsors The BDAV appreciates the support and assistance of our sponsors (correct at time of printing)

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BDAV Building Design of the Year 2017 A residential alteration project by Junctions 90 is the big winner in the 2017 BDAV Building Design Awards, having won the coveted Building Design of the Year. Dina Malathounis of Junctions 90, who is a sole-practitioner, also made BDAV history by being the first female building designer to win the coveted Building Design of the Year in the 22 years’ history of the BDAV’s annual Building Design Awards. The team at Box Hill Institute were very excited to see Dina receive this accolade. Dina graduated from BHI in 2010 with lots of distinctions. Susan Morris from Box Hill Institute said: “It’s wonderful to see Dina skyrocket to fame and glory. We are very pleased for her.” The Killara project also won awards for: Residential Design – Alterations & Additions: over $500K construction cost Residential Restoration Interior Design – Residential Excellence in Use of Steel The restoration of Killara – a stately 1850’s home in Windsor wrestled from the hands of developers – demonstrates a clear value and respect of the original building’s materials and building methodologies.

‘Killara’ is an Aboriginal word meaning permanent or always there. It is also the name of one of the last remaining stately homes in Windsor, a suburb of Melbourne. Having outbid developers looking to demolish, the new owners wanted to create a stunning modern home while retaining and restoring as much of the existing building as possible. Dina Malathounis from Junctions 90 set to work on the property. Taking cues from neighbouring properties, every component of the heritage home was rejuvenated through a quality and durability approach. To the rear, a twostorey arresting pavilion-style addition inspired by Mies van der Rohe is almost invisible from the street. Having saved the original home from demolition, every element was restored. The beautiful façade of hand-crafted Hawthorn bricks was revealed under brown paint and a new Welsh slate roof installed. English-style landscaping, a new brick and cast-iron front gate, verandah

Victoria’s Shadow Planning Minister, David Davis, presented the major award to Dina Malathounis at the BDAV’s 2017 Annual Dinner (image Dean Gordon & Associates)

iron posts, latticework and reconditioned original pavers complete the façade. Continued page 4....


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BDAV NEWS

Cover Story

Killara The interior provides a lifestyle that respects the past but is comfortable today. New heating has been installed, while original light fittings, fireplaces, cornices, ceiling roses, windows and floor boards have been reconditioned and retained. During renovation, a 160 yearold ceiling rose was damaged, however a local craftsperson was found to create a mould replica of the original design. That same mould is now being used to create new ceiling roses, saving a small piece of Australian history. There is distinct separation between old and new, with the Hawthorn brick façade in the heritage home becoming a backdrop in the modern addition, adding texture and warmth. The extension houses the living areas on the ground floor and provides a two-bedroom selfcontained apartment upstairs for multigenerational family living. The structure takes a modernist reductionist approach to create a timeless enduring architectural typology. The upper level is clad in stainless steel, reflecting the sky and melting into the background. The materials in the extension were selected for durability, and aim to last the lifetime of the building. Plasterboard has been completely avoided with concrete, steel, glass and solid timber preferred materials. This approach reduced build time and stress for the clients by utilising a commercial-style approach to the build where most of the work was completed by ‘lock up’.

Upstairs, a separate self-contained apartment can be used by family or rented. Downstairs, open-plan kitchen, dining, and sunken living quarters open via full height glazing. Textural, translucent curtains were chosen to soften the concrete floor and suspended ceiling slab. A suspended fireplace and sunken fire-pit pays homage to mid-century living. Custom walnut cabinetry lines the wall while sliding walnut doors hide the television. “We wanted to create a separation between old and new”, said Dina. The new should be ideal for 21st century living but almost invisible on the site – hence the mirror stainless steel and floor-to-ceiling glazing”.

The project won over the judges with its marriage of old and new, and its reflective stainless-steel upper-level extension that appears to disappear into the sky. Chair of the Judging Panel, Marc Bernstein-Hussmann, said: “One of the many striking things in this building is its upper-storey rear façade. With the reflective stainless steel finish, it seems to just disappear into the sky. This move allows the ground floor addition to the heritage building to shine in its very own right, and to showcase a beautiful interpretation of modernist architectural values.


V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 7 A U G U S T 2017

In line with this Miesian approach, the materials palette is kept simple and clear: concrete, steel, and glass define a vast unobstructed free-flowing interior, and connect inside and outside. Carefully considered detailing is true to the nature of these materials. The interiors themselves are an extension of the building design: they are comfortable and beautiful inviting spaces. In fact, all aspects of this building show a set of highly skillful hands, from interiors to design, from restoration to integration, from planning to execution. An impressive design response to the heritage building, confident yet respectful of its relationship with the environs and landscape, this building is a real standout and shows true excellence in building design,� said Marc.

Acknowledgements Designer: Junctions 90 www.junctions90.com.au Builder: Junctions 90 Photographer: Christine Francis

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BDAV NEWS


V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 7 A U G U S T 2017

Awards

Winners: BDAV Building Design Awards 2017

Building Design of the Year 2017 Junctions 90 for Killara

Non-Residential Restoration Jarrod Sinclair for Block Court Restoration

Residential Design – New Houses: $300K-$500K construction cost Bios for Joan7.3

Most Innovative Bathroom Design Little Brick Studio for Merilyn House

Residential Design – New Houses: $500K-$1M construction cost Winner: Sync Design for Doncaster Residence Commendation: Tina Lindner Building Design for Keane/Forest Project Multi-Residential Design Winner: Green Sheep Collective for Alphington Townhouses Commendation: Armsby Architects for Green Edge Best Small Lot Design – Residential Winner: JFK Design for Project Carlisle Commendation: Bios for Joan7.3 Residential Heritage Design Winner: Tina Lindner Building Design for Keane/Forest Project Residential Restoration Junctions 90 for Killara Residential Design – Alterations & Additions: up to $200K construction cost JFK Design for Project Carlisle Residential Design – Alterations & Additions: $200K–$500K construction cost Joint Winner: Positive Footprints Pty Ltd for The Cheese House Joint Winner: Glow Design Group for Deco House Residential Design – Alterations & Additions: over $500K construction cost Junctions 90 for Killara Best Energy Efficient Design – Residential Armsby Architects for Green Edge

Most Innovative Kitchen Design Design Unity Pty Ltd for Venendo Insieme Most Innovative Small Works Project Nagy Design Pty Ltd for M8 Project Excellence in Use of Steel Winner: Junctions 90 for Killara Commendation: In2 Pty Ltd for Fold House Excellence in Use of Timber Brandrick Architects for Moama Anglican Grammar School Excellence in Use of Glass Design Unity Pty Ltd for Ida Chalet Excellence in Use of Lightweight Materials Winner: PROJECT Now for Temperance Court Commendation: Green Sheep Collective for Alphington Townhouses Best Response to a Design Brief by a Student Bin He Best Digital Presentation by a Student Winner: Bruno Gusmao Commendation: Bin He Drafting Excellence by a Student Winner: Liyan Shi Commendation: Chloe Brennan

The BDAV 2017

Best Environmentally Sustainable Design – Residential Positive Footprints Pty Ltd for The Cheese House

Interior Design – Residential Winner: Junctions 90 for Killara Commendation: Tina Lindner Building Design for Keane/Forest Project

are proudly sponsored by

Interior Design – Non-Residential Wilson id Pty Ltd for The Essential Ingredient Non-Residential Design – New Project CBA Building Designers for ACME1 Head Office, Manufacturing and Wholesale Non-Residential Design – Alterations & Additions Winner: Wilson id Pty Ltd for The Essential Ingredient Commendation: Planwise Design Pty Ltd for Holy Rosary Church Addition

The BDAV also appreciates the partnership of its Diamond Sponsor and all other major sponsors who support the BDAV.

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BDAV NEWS

BDAV Annual Dinner

BDAV Annual Dinner – a Pictorial Review The BDAV’s Annual Dinner was held at the Great Hall, National Gallery of Victoria, on Saturday, 29 July 2017, which features the beautiful Leonard French ceiling. Those who attended are hailing the event another successful event. This year’s Master of Ceremonies was comedian, radio host and television presenter, Tim Ross, who injected lots of fun and personality into the proceedings. One guest summed him up as follows: “The MC was so much more entertaining this year and he kept the awards moving quickly with snippets of comedy – he was great!”

Pictures courtesy of Dean Gordon & Associates


BDAV Awards Winners

Pictures courtesy of Dean Gordon & Associates

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Winning Solutions Start with WoodSolutions 10

BDAV NEWS

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Whether you’re winning awards with brilliant designs, winning clients with thoughtful proposals or helping to win the battle to reduce our environmental footprint, you’ll find WoodSolutions is a great place to start. Combining inspiration with information, expert advice with supplier listings, online CPD courses with technical design guides and a whole lot more, WoodSolutions is your one stop online resource for designing and building with wood and wood products. Join the winners with wood, visit WoodSolutions.com.au today.

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BDAV Award Winners

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Our thanks also to the team at Dig Design who assisted with the final judging of the Student Awards. The winners are:

Best Response to a Design Brief by a Student WINNER: Bin He Student at Bendigo TAFE Bin’s response to the brief has come from extensive research of both the subject site and his concepts. The double façade system and geometric shading frame are intriguing concepts and, along with a thorough sets of presentation and working drawings, demonstrate a refined solution for the site. The judges considered Bin’s project to be a stand out entry and congratulate Bin on a well thought-out design solution.

Best Digital Presentation by a Student WINNER: Bruno Gusmao Student at Holmesglen

Bin He

Bruno’s digital presentation was of an exceptionally high standard with an incredibly realistic 3D depiction of his design. Bruno’s skill was considered in

COMMENDATION: Bin He Student at Bendigo TAFE Bin chose to make his digital presentation a fly-through of his Active Learning Centre. The presentation was smooth and logical. It displayed the design elements in a considered way, and gave the judges a clear understanding the design concepts and intentions.

Drafting Excellence by a Student WINNER: Liyan Shi Student at Holmesglen The extensive drawing set prepared by Liyan demonstrates a high level of understanding in the materials, processes and construction methods of a complex built form. The judges congratulate Liyan on a thoroughly detailed set of working drawings.

Liyan Shi

TAFE students had to develop a design brief based on a Class 2 to 9, Type ‘B’ building using a selected site in their local area, which was determined by their local TAFE. Finalists from participating TAFEs competed in this year’s competition, and the BDAV thanks those TAFEs who supported the competition.

his palette and streetscape elements, and in resisting the temptation to present in perfect weather. This added depth and realism that ensured the design elements of his concept were the focal points of his presentation. The interior views were likewise realistic and inviting. Overall an excellent digital presentation and a worthy winner.

COMMENDATION: Chloe Brennan Student at Bendigo TAFE Chloe’s working drawing set was likewise outstanding. Layouts were logical and methodical, making them easy to understand and navigate. Congratulations Chloe on a thorough working drawing package. Below image is from Bruno Gusmao’s submission

Chloe Brennan

The Student Category in the BDAV’s annual Building Design Awards is an exciting category, as it gives the industry the opportunity to see the talents of some of our upcoming designers – the leaders of tomorrow.

Bruno Gusmao

Student Award Winners 2017


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Special Recognition

BDAV NEWS

Members Recognised Ashley Thompson

At the BDAV’s 2017 Annual Dinner, the following members were recognised for their contribution to the BDAV:

Ashley Thompson received the Ronald Pickford Award for Service Excellence 2017 in recognition of his contribution to the BDAV over many years.

Narelle Lockwood Narelle Lockwood was elevated to the status of Fellow of the BDAV in recognition of her support and assistance over many years. In presenting her with this accolade, BDAV President, Lindsay Douglas, observed that Narelle “is one of those ‘solid achievers’ who pitches in whenever called upon. She is a sole practitioner with a strong design background. So much so, that she was a lecturer in Building Design at Holmesglen from 2006 to 2015 whilst running her business. She has always been a strong supporter of the BDAV’s CPD Program, and she initiated a group of regional female designers in Gippsland who get together regularly to review many of the CPD DVDs we have produced over the years. She also assisted the (then) Building Practitioners Board whenever called upon.”

In announcing this award, the namesake – Ron Pickford – observed he was honoured to announce the second recipient of this award, which was established in Ron’s name by the BDAV last year, for which he is extremely honoured.

Narelle Lockwood received her Fellow certificate from BDAV President, Lindsay Douglas

David Mulhall David Mulhall was elevated to the status of Life Member of the BDAV in recognition of his contribution to the BDAV over many years. David, a Past President of the BDAV, has been a BDAV Member since 1994. BDAV President, Lindsay Douglas, observed that “Whilst running a successful sole practice, David participated on the BDAV’s Committee of Management from 2001 to 2010. He served as BDAV President from 20062008, driving many initiatives for the Association, not the least of which was the introduction in 2007 of the BDAV’s Professional Indemnity Insurance scheme through our nominated insurance broker. David chaired the BDAV’s Planning SubCommittee from 2012 to 2016. He was also the BDAV’s first nomination to the Building Advisory Council, on which he served from 2013 to 2015. In recognition of David’s past and ongoing commitment, the Committee of Management unanimously determined that he be elevated to the status of Life Member.”

David Mulhall received his Life Member certificate from BDAV President, Lindsay Douglas

Ron noted that: “Ashley has been a Corporate Member of the Association since 2005, and runs Clause:1 Planning, a successful town planning consultancy which he established in 2004. Ashley served on the BDAV’s Planning SubCommittee from 2012 to 2016. Since March 2008, he has provided a monthly article to BDAV News updating members on important Planning issues. He has also provided complementary advice to BDAV Members and to the BDAV’s office on planning issues whenever called upon. Ashley has also assisted the BDAV in compiling content for various submissions that impact our membership relating to the planning arena. From time to time, he has also appeared at panel hearings related to planning, and contributed case studies, especially recently in relation to the Better Apartments Design Guidelines. He and his team deliver worthwhile presentations at BDAV CPD events, both metropolitan and regional, whenever called up, which are always highly praised.” “I believe he is a most worthy winner of this Award,” concluded Ron.

New NABD President

Ashley Thompson (right) received a plaque for the Ronald Pickford Award for Service Excellence which was presented by Ron Pickford (left)

Got Something Newsworthy? A project that your proud of? Or involved in a community project? Or a comment about something contained in this edition? We’d love to hear from you! Email details to The Editor at

info@bdav.org.au

Paul Wilson, Immediate Past President of BDAWA, has been appointed President of the National Association of Building Designers, replacing Tamica Lewis from BDAQ, who recently completed her twoyear term as NABD President. The BDAV acknowledges the contribution made by Tamica during her presidency. We also we wish Paul every success in this role, and we look forward to assisting him to fulfil the initiatives and objectives of the nation’s peak national body representing building designers across the majority of states in Australia.


Special Recognition

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Students Recognised At the BDAV’s 2017 Annual Dinner, the following student members were recognised for their achievements:

Pedro Torres Da Costa Pedro was named the recipient of the Brian Morison Award for Most Promising Student 2017, for which he received $4,000 from the BDAV to assist him to further his studies in the building design profession.

Student Grants At the BDAV’s 2017 Annual Dinner, the following Student members were announced as recipients of student grants, and each received $500 from the BDAV to encourage them to further their studies in the building design profession. The BDAV had originally offered three such student grants for 2017; however, in recognition of their outstanding submissions, six grants were announced to:

Melanie Liu – student at Box Hill Institute Luke Peldys – student at RMIT Vicki Stevens – student at Melbourne Polytechnic Samantha Taggert – student at Box Hill Institute Daniel Thomson – student at Federation University Ballarat Scott U’ren – student at Melbourne Polytechnic

In presenting the award on behalf of Brian Morison, BDAV President, Lindsay Douglas, commented: “Whilst there were a number of excellent entries this year, which is a credit to the enthusiasm and talent of the students who participated, it is equally a credit to the teachers of the Advanced Diploma for their dedication in drawing out the best in their students. “However this year’s winner of the Brian Morison Award for Most Promising Student is Pedro Torres Da Costa, a student at Melbourne Polytechnic. “Pedro put forward a comprehensive award entry portfolio submission highlighting a very thoughtful and considered design that balanced contemporary elements in a traditional streetscape. The design was well considered and resolved, with very good detailed drawings that displayed both intent and design very well.

Pedro Torres Da Costa

“Pedro’s ability to verbally articulate the intent of his design and his overall portfolio before the BDAV Judging Panel was also of a high calibre. The design presentation, quality of drawings, the embracing of ESD principles and the knowledge of town planning and construction techniques – together with good communication skills – made Pedro an outstanding entrant and winner.”

Student Grant winners pictured with MC, Tim Ross (far right) Below image is from Pedro Torres Da Costa’s submission for a site in Preston. Pedro said the clients requested two contemporary three-bedroom units to be built on the property. The challenge was to create a sustainable multi-unit residential development that aimed to cater to the clients’ requests whilst also thinking about the end user. The design focused on reducing the buildings’ environmental impact whilst capturing the predominant elements of the buildings in the surrounding area.


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Marketing Matters

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Content Marketing and Your Building Design Practice

Content marketing is everywhere these days. It might be your mortgage broker sending out missives about market activity and trends; it could be your health insurance company sending out healthy eating recipes; and it’s most certainly any newsletter from any business you’ve signed up to. Few building designers and design professionals use content marketing as a marketing tactic. A growing number have newsletters, and there are a handful of professionals like Amelia Lee from Undercover Architect who has had plenty of success through using content marketing via regular blogging and emails to grow her business. (She speaks to around 5,000 prospective customers every week via her email, for example.) So why are there so few design professionals using content marketing? I believe this is because they haven’t realised its potential and it needs to be done well to be effective (and this takes resources). However, content marketing works for other businesses and it can work for building designers too because it taps into an important yet underappreciated part of the process: the ‘buyers journey’. In the old days, when a client wanted to hire a building designer, she asked her friend, who recommended one, perhaps two, building designers. The client would meet them and make her decision. These days, client asks her friends (that much hasn’t changed), she gets recommendations, and then this happens:

She goes online to check you out and sees all these other building designers. She gets distracted and captivated – she has easy access to those referrals now, and many more. She also has access to the products and even systems she might like to use in her project – tiles, flooring, roofing, construction methods etc – and she’s also got access to forums to decide what (and who) to look for. The general trend of all buyers these days – and your clients are probably no exception – is self-education. And you’ll know from experience that this self-education process takes a long time – years for some clients. So why is this important? Because not only do clients spend a lot of time in this self-education phase, and spend a lot of time looking for the many and varied options, it appears that they also prefer businesses that assist them with this stage: “90% of buyers prefer brands that provide content throughout the buying process.” Market Bridge This quote comes through the retail environment, but I believe it also applies to architecture. Modern customers prefer brands that create content that help them with their buying journey... And another insight: “74% of deals are awarded to the sales rep and company that was first to add value and insight”. Market Bridge So we know your prospective clients are online for an extensive period trying to figure out what they want and who is best placed to give it to them. And we know that if you can be the first person to add real value and insight to their online education process you are far more likely to win the project. This is why I believe content marketing as an approach should be widely considered for building designers. We’ll look further into the mechanics of content marketing in next month’s newsletter.

Verity Campbell

You may have heard of ‘content marketing’. These two words describe the endeavour of creating useful information for prospective customers. Businesses create this information hoping to discover, connect and build an enduring relationship with new clients by providing them with valuable insights and information, but also hoping that when the time comes to purchase, their business will be front of mind.

Writing, marketing and communications for design and related businesses. Join my weekly newsletter for new ideas, tips and advice. Sign up at www.veritycampbell.com.au/newsletter Verity Campbell Communications: www.veritycampbell.com.au


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BDAV NEWS


Insurance Issues

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CSIRO Determination has Potential Impact for Energy Raters’ Professional Indemnity Insurance

It’s important to consider the potential impact on your Professional Indemnity policy. As this information is publicly available, the insurer has rights to reduce or refuse a claim moving forward if this information is not considered. Most professional indemnity policies will contain a clause similar to the following: Chris Webber is the Managing Director of Webber Insurance Services with diplomas of both Insurance Broking and Risk Management. Webber Insurance Services is the approved Insurance Broker of the BDAV. For any enquiries, please call 1300 668 553 or email bdav@webberinsurance.com.au

Underwriters shall not be liable for any claim which arises directly or indirectly, or in connection with: Any willful breach of statute, contract or duty, or any act or omission committed or omitted or alleged to have been committed or omitted with a reckless disregard for the consequences by any insured. The insurers may argue that the CSIRO’s report has provided knowledge to all Energy Raters of a potential issue and, if ignored, may invoke the above exclusion. A potential claims example may be if a subsequent rating is undertaken (potentially due to residents’ concerns about an underperforming building, sale of the home etc) and a lower result is achieved. If the house is underperforming and/or it affects the value of the property, an owner would look for compensation from the builder who would join the energy rater in litigation.

CSIRO Bulletin The alert issued by the CSIRO in July 2017 that prompted Chris Webber to write the above article is as follows:

Caution advised: NatHERS tools unsuitable for the NCC reference building Verification Method V2.6.2.2 The National Construction Code includes an option (V2.6.2.2 Verification Using a Reference Building) to calculate the energy consumed by a reference building that includes all the deemedto-satisfy requirements in the NCC and compare that to the calculation of the energy consumed by the proposed building. Both calculations are done under conditions set out in the NCC. It has come to CSIRO’s attention that some reference building assessments are being undertaken using NatHERS accredited tools for the calculation of the energy consumed by the reference and planned buildings. Users of NatHERS accredited tools need to be aware that these tools use a different set of conditions to those set out in the NCC, so that NatHERS tools may not be suitable to provide a Reference Building Verification to show compliance with the NCC.

V2.6.2.2 states that: “c) The calculation method used must be capable of assessing the heating load and cooling load by modelling(v) space temperature settings in the range 20 degrees C to 21 degrees C for heating, and 25 degrees C to 28 degrees C for cooling;” All NatHERS tools use set thermostat settings of between 22.5 degrees Celsius and 27.0 degrees C for cooling (depending on Climate Zone). For heating living spaces (including kitchens and other spaces typically used during the waking hours) a heating thermostat setting of 20 degrees C is used and bedroom spaces (including bathrooms and dressing rooms, or other spaces closely associated with bedrooms) a heating thermostat setting of 18 degrees C from 7-9 am and from 4 pm to midnight and a heating thermostat setting of 15 degrees C from midnight to 7 am is used.

Chris Webber

We read with interest the latest July release from the CSIRO regarding their determination on the NatHERS tools. CSIRO’s report states that the NatHERS accredited tools do not meet the requirements for a Reference Building Verification. This is something that all Energy Raters and assessors need to be aware of.

It’s important to remember that each rating can have a serious impact so it’s important to remain diligent and offer your services to the highest standard. If corners are cut, it’s inevitable that an issue will catch up with you and it will be a case of WHEN rather than IF a claim occurs. We will continue to follow any developments on this topic; however, please contact myself or Daniel to discuss further. Users are unable to change the relevant conditions in the NatHERS accredited tools. Therefore in most instances NatHERS tools are not appropriate for use in demonstrating compliance National Construction Code under V2.6.2.2. These tools are only designed and maintained to be used under the NatHERS pathway in the NCC and CSIRO is not responsible for any consequence due to such misuse of NatHERS accredited tools. Construction of buildings rated less than 6 stars using NatHERS tools may lead to poor comfort and energy performance in the finished dwelling.

BDAV CPD Webinar Monday, 21 August 2017 Section J and Insulation Solutions Presented by Louis Laurita Kingspan Insulation

Participants will be provided with a good understanding of where Section J applies, how to meet its requirements through Deemed to Satisfy (DTS) methodologies and the different insulation system options for various roof, wall and floor constructions.

Details and bookings

www.bdav.org.au


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Planning Tidbits

BDAV NEWS

Little bits that can make a big difference to your town planning outcomes

Changing to VicSmart from Non-VicSmart? Wittenbach v Cardinia SC [2017] VCAT 793 was an appeal by an objector against Council’s decision to grant a permit to develop a shed and a pergola in the Green Wedge Zone. Between the Tribunal hearing on 20 March 2017 and the Tribunal making a decision, the planning scheme changed, including the introduction of additional development classes to the State VicSmart provisions. The permit applicant sought to have the appeal struck out on the basis that the

changes to the planning scheme resulted in the matter qualifying as a VicSmart application. The permit applicant notified the Tribunal of the change and noted that VicSmart applications are exempt from third party notice and appeal rights. The matter was put to a practice day hearing where the Tribunal considered: Whether the VicSmart provisions now apply to the permit application? Whether the proceeding should be dismissed because the objectors no longer have any right of review? The Tribunal commented that the VicSmart provisions did not introduce new planning controls to the planning scheme but, rather, changed the process requirements relating to the making of an application, decision guidelines and third party notice and review (appeal) rights. The Tribunal noted in this decision that: “…there is no justification for reading the provisions as applying retrospectively to any existing applications, which were made prior to their application. Such applications would not have been applications that were specifically made pursuant to the VicSmart provisions with the necessary information specified in the provisions accompanying the application.

Ashley Thompson, Clause:1

In recent issues we have discussed the extension of the VicSmart system, set out in Clauses 90-95 of the Victorian Planning Provisions (VPP). VicSmart provides a shorter planning permit process for simple and straightforward applications. Two recent VCAT decisions have dealt with the VicSmart provisions and will be of interest to regular permit applicants:

And …I consider that the VicSmart provisions provide an opportunity for a permit applicant to pursue the VicSmart fast track permit application process…. if a permit applicant chooses to do so. … But unless a specific VicSmart application is made, I do not consider that those provisions automatically apply to any other permit application notwithstanding it may be eligible for a VicSmart application to be made and so considered… In light of these findings, the Tribunal considered that the application in Wittenbach v Cardinia SC was not automatically a VicSmart application; it had not been applied for with the

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The Victorian Building Authority has released its top seven warning signs of an unregistered builder or plumber, which members may care to share with their clients. The VBA observes that building a home, or undertaking a renovation will likely be one of the biggest investments a home owner will ever make. To protect themselves from rogue practitioners, the VBA urges home owners to do their research and develop good communication lines with their builder or plumber. VBA Acting Chief Executive Officer, Murray Smith, said it was also important to understand the role of the building surveyor and the VBA before starting the construction process. “It is only through your relationship with your building practitioner – including builder, building surveyor and plumber – that you will fully understand how your project is going,” Mr. Smith said. “Seek regular updates, take photographs and ensure any variations to plans are agreed in writing by you and the practitioner.”

The VBA’s top 7 warning signs of an unregistered builder/plumber: 1. No results are found when you type the builder’s or plumber’s name into the VBA’s online ‘Find a Practitioner’ tool. 2. They do not ask you to enter into a written contract before the project starts. 3. They ask for too much money up front or at each set payment stage. By law in Victoria, a deposit can be no more than five per cent of the total project cost (projects over $20,000). 4. They are not prepared to tell you about or show you what homes they have recently built. 5. They cannot or will not show you their VBA ID card. 6. Your builder or plumber is not a member of an industry body. 7. You are not given a copy of your builder’s domestic building insurance policy or a certificate of currency covering your property before construction.policy or a certificate of currency covering your property before construction.


Planning Tidbits

necessary information requirements for a VicSmart application (it was not eligible at the time) and was therefore not exempt from third party notice and appeal rights. The Tribunal also referred to Section 28(2) of the Interpretation of Legislation Act 1984 which protects the objector’s appeal rights, where a subordinate instrument or a provision of a subordinate instrument (such as a planning scheme) is amended, the amendment shall not (unless expressly stated to the contrary) affect any right, privilege, obligation or liability accrued or incurred under that subordinate instrument. At the time that the appeal was lodged with the Tribunal, a right of review had accrued to the appellant and had been exercised.

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 7 A U G U S T 2017

scheme and the heritage significance of the wall. Clause 91 of all Planning Schemes limits and specifies the matters which Councils can consider in VicSmart applications, and exempts other matters which non-VicSmart applications remain subject to. In this case, the Tribunal reached the conclusion that the Council was unreasonable when it decided to grant a permit for the demolition of the stone wall, being a decision so unreasonable that no reasonable responsible authority acting reasonably could ever have come to it.

In Portland Historic Building Restoration Committee Inc v Glenelg SC [2017] VCAT 519 an appeal was made pursuant to Section 149a of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (a general appeal for a declaration) against Council’s decision to grant a planning permit to demolish a bluestone wall included in a Heritage Overlay. On receipt of the planning permit through the VicSmart process, the wall was demolished. The appellant sought a declaration that the proposal to demolish the wall was not exempt from notice (advertising) and appeal under VicSmart provisions or the Heritage Overlay.

In summary, the Tribunal found that: At Clause 92.04 of all Planning Schemes, to demolish or remove a fence is a class of VicSmart application unless the fence is identified in the schedule to the Heritage Overlay; Because the specific Heritage Overlay control did not identify the stone wall, it is exempt from third party notice and appeal rights; On consideration of legislative and dictionary definitions, a ‘wall’ is considered a ‘fence’ for the purpose of the exemption from third party notice and appeal rights under the Heritage Overlay; While VicSmart provisions are intended to speed up the planning process, the same standards of decision making are required as for non-VicSmart applications. The matters required to be considered under the relevant decision guidelines of the VicSmart provisions were not properly considered and irrelevant matters were considered; in this case:

The appellant submitted that the way in which Council officers dealt with the permit application was inadequate having regard to the provisions of the planning

– The safety concerns about the wall; – The Council officer’s assessment of the heritage significance of the wall was misguided and failed to give

The findings from the practice day hearing were that the objector appellant maintained a right to have the matter heard on appeal and that the application was not a VicSmart application.

Quick, poor, irrelevant and unreasonable decision making

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proper weight to evidence and to the opinion of the Council’s heritage adviser (who had recommended the wall be retained, stabilised and conserved as there was there was no adequate engineering advice to support demolition of the wall); – There was a manifest objective on the part of the owner to get rid of the wall for reasons that were not relevant to consider under a VicSmart assessment. Council had not properly considered whether it was possible to avoid or manage the adverse impact on the heritage significance of the wall – a relevant decision guideline in the VicSmart provisions – and To the extent that safety or cost matters were considered, they were irrelevant considerations. The Tribunal stated … the only factors upon which weight can be placed in the decision-making process for demolition or removal of a fence under the Heritage Overlay pursuant to Clause 92.04 are heritage considerations. In summary, the Tribunal found that the Council as responsible authority had failed to properly discharge its duties and that the Council’s decision to grant a permit to demolish the stone wall was a decision that was beyond its power. The Tribunal also suggested that all Councils review their Heritage Overlays to ensure that important heritage items, which can be characterised as fences or outbuildings, are listed as not exempt from notice and appeal, otherwise they are able to be considered as VicSmart applications. In this instance, the wall had already been demolished prior to the matter getting to VCAT. So the Tribunal’s finding were more a reprimand to Council than anything else.

Ph: 03 9370 9599 www.clause1.com.au


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BDAV NEWS


Membership Update

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 7 A U G U S T 2017

News from the Membership Officer’s Desk by John Verdon, BDAV Membership Officer

building design documentation and other council specific matters.

The BDAV’s regional meetings have been an important service for our regional members for some time. They provide a great opportunity for our members to network with their peers and of course develop their own skill-set through professional development. The latest round held through June and July is no exception. The topics covered across the regions included: Planning, Municipal Building Surveyor discussion, Residential Efficiency Scorecard, Succession planning (including planning for retirement) and emerging surveying technologies.

For the benefit of the broader membership, the key points discussed included:

For the benefit of the broader membership, some of the key topics discussed and where to get more information is available in this article.

Dual appointments of RBS – The first appointment will stand.

From a Planning perspective, Clause:1 Planning were on hand and presented a number of topics designed to assist members with planning permit applications. The Red Dot decisions discussed that members expressed interest in included: when to and how to request extensions for planning permits, exemptions from permit triggers and other requirements associated with vegetation removal, VCAT’s recent thoughts on over-looking considerations and the Benedetti Principal which considers the benefit and burden of existing permits running with the land. Clause:1 also alerted members to the fact that secondary consent amendment fees are not prescribed, meaning councils have some discretion as to the fees charged. That said, the fees should be reasonable and members can ask to have the fees reconsidered if they are not. Other matters of interest discussed included: application lapse dates, the Better Apartment Design Standards, changes to CHMP requirements, the recent expansion of VicSmart and perhaps most importantly, the recent changes to the residential zones. For more information about all the changes the BDAV recommends purchasing the DVD of the full seminar that Clause:1 presented to CBD members on the 5th June 2017. The BDAV was pleased to have a number of local Municipal Building Surveyors attend this round of regional meetings. The MBS’s participated in an open forum with our members and discussed concerns about the quality of

R&C applications – Members are encouraged to contact council first specifically where this is needed to build over easements as often councils may have a reason to deny a request even if consent is given. Protection work notices – Encouraging members to check with their RBS if one may be required, particularly when working with owner builders.

Quality of documentation – Reminding members that RBS’s are there to ensure that documentation is compliant with the standards and not to ‘fix’ design errors. The MBS’s that presented also commented on what a great tool the BDAV checklist is as it is exactly this type of tool that a surveyor will use when making an assessment of documentation. The checklist is available to all members of the BDAV in the MEMBER pages of our website, under Practice Notes. Property information, site works not reflecting site conditions and shadow diagrams not being accurate were also discussed. A Residential Efficiency Scorecard update from DELWP was presented to members in Ballarat. The presentation provided great insight as to the key drivers behind the program and what the intentions and goals for the scorecard program are. If you are interested in becoming a Scorecard Assessor or want to learn more about the program, go to https://www.victorianenergysaver.vic.gov. au/residential-efficiency-scorecard. As the Membership Officer I often get asked questions about succession planning and selling design businesses so I was pleased that MGR Accountants presented on this topic in Bendigo. The key take-outs from the presentation for me and hopefully most of the members in attendance was that succession planning does not always mean ‘selling’ the business; it can simply mean your plan to retire. Other interesting points to come out of the presentation included: just because you are not looking to sell it doesn’t mean someone isn’t looking to buy. Also, it is critical you have a business plan even if it

means your plan is to simply maintain the business as is, this is key to setting up your succession planning. The BDAV will look to run this presentation again so please keep an eye out if this is of interest to you. The last topic covered was land surveys using unique and emerging 3D capture technology. The presentation from Spiire covered a broad range of applications for this technology. The technology allows for a one off scan with several data capture points that can provide an unprecedented level of data complete with photo scanning eliminating the need for multiple site visits. If anyone is interest in this type of surveying service please contact Spiire direct. BDAV thanks Ashley Thompson from Clause:1 Planning or checking and correcting the accuracy of the above article.

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BDAV NEWS

With new paint technology that diffuses light for an elegantly soft, textured appearance, new COLORBOND® steel Matt is a highly attractive and versatile design material. Available in a range of natural colours it’s perfect for commercial, industrial and residential projects. Visit COLORBOND.COM/MATT OR CALL 1800 064 384

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Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 7 A U G U S T 2017

COLORBOND® steel Launches New Colours COLORBOND® steel, Australia’s favourite steel building material for over 50 years, introduces an elegant new matt finish to complement the latest building design trends. Harnessing new paint technology to deliver a naturally inspired finish that diffuses light for a soft, textured, designer look, COLORBOND® steel Matt is available in Surfmist® Matt, Shale Grey™ Matt, Dune® Matt, Basalt® Matt and Monument® Matt. Lisa Dent, Manager of Marketing and Market Development at BlueScope, says: “The COLORBOND® steel Matt paint technology was developed to give the industry an accessible, yet highly attractive and versatile design material that provides a softer finish to complement the move towards more natural looking materials in residential building. “The new COLORBOND® steel Matt collection offers builders a range of neutral hues and a colour palette with the depth and versatility to adapt to any house type.” The ideal solution for roofing and walling systems that demand design versatility, COLORBOND® steel Matt has been recently used by John Adam Architects: “We recently used COLORBOND® steel Matt within the existing architecture on a Mount Barker project in Stirling, South Australia. The versatility of the COLORBOND® steel Monument® Matt delivered a beautifully natural looking zinc like finish and provided streamlined uniformity to the upper level of the residence.” Tested for over a decade, COLORBOND® steel Matt has been designed for the hot Australian Sun. The result is a product which maintains its Matt finish, looking even better for longer. COLORBOND® steel Matt is also manufactured in Australia and is compliant with relevant Australian Standards. Incorporating BlueScope’s unique Thermatech® solar reflectance technology, COLORBOND® steel Matt reflects the sun’s heat on hot sunny days and benefits from BlueScope’s industry leading metallic coating technology, Activate®, for enhanced corrosion resistance. COLORBOND® steel Matt is made and backed by BlueScope, one of Australia’s largest steel manufacturers. BlueScope

offers a variety of warranties of up to 36 years, for peace of mind.1 1. Warranties subject to application and eligibility criteria. For full terms and conditions and to determine the eligibility of your building for the warranty visit bluescopesteel.com.au/warranties or call BlueScope on 1800 702 764. The new COLORBOND® steel Matt finishes include: COLORBOND® steel Surfmist® Matt COLORBOND® steel Shale Grey™ Matt COLORBOND® steel Dune® Matt COLORBOND® steel Basalt® Matt COLORBOND® steel Monument® Matt Images are of Mount Barker project in Stirling, South Australia, by John Adam Architects

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BDAV NEWS

FlowTHRU™

Stainless Steel Threshold Drain for AWS doors. A flush threshold has many advantages, less risk of trips, improved accessibility and an uninterrupted transition between interior and exterior spaces. Ensuring water tightness can be difficult. The AWS FlowTHRU™ makes it simple, designed to suit the full offering of AWS doors, supplied with the door system to minimise the risk of errors and simplify trade coordination onsite.

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awsflowthru.com.au LOOKING FOR TECHNICAL SUPPORT AND INFORMATION? For technical information and data, visit specifyaws.com.au. To request a CPD presentation at your practice, please email techsupport@awsaustralia.com.au


Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 7 A U G U S T 2017

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Tarkett Positive Legacy Design Award New university award puts a spotlight on Victoria’s best sustainable building designs Tarkett, a global leader in sustainable flooring, has collaborated with the University of Melbourne to offer for the first time an award to recognise the creativity and social conscience of design students in Victoria. The annual award celebrates Melbourne School of Design students whose project demonstrates the most potential to create positive social and ecological outcomes that have a ripple effect into the future. The annual $1,000 financial assistance allows the winner to focus on their studies and upskilling in sustainable building design. Brigit Skilbeck, a Bachelor of Environments student, became the first recipient of the Tarkett Positive Legacy Design Award. She received the award at the university’s Dean Honour awards night and was presented it by Mariana Thomas, Head of Marketing & Communications at Tarkett. Brigit delivered a sustainable concept aimed at combining beauty with practical sustainability, to democratise public space through community participation and decision making. On receiving the honour Ms Skilbeck said, “I am honoured to receive this recognition not only from my educators but also from Tarkett, a company who has a long history in sustainability. I hope to combine the art and beauty of architecture with an ethos of practical sustainability.” Mariana Thomas, Tarkett Head of Marketing and Communications, said the award strongly aligns with the company’s sustainable values and products. “We have confidence this prestigious award will uncover and motivate the most innovative use of sustainable building design across Victoria, and ultimately push the industry as a whole to new heights.”

“We congratulate Brigit on her achievement and hope the financial assistance helps her in her future studies. Initiatives like this award are a step in the right direction to try increase support for students in an effort to retain skilled talent in the local market.” The 2016 Towards Building That Thrive Report, authored by the Thrive Research Hub at The University of Melbourne and commissioned by Tarkett, highlighted the vital need for design professionals to build healthier, sustainable environments to keep up with the rapid building boom in Australia. Dr Dominique Hes, Director of the Thrive Research Hub at the University of Melbourne, explains “We hope to see students showing us how their designs support nature and social healing via this award. We really appreciate Tarkett’s support of the award, our students and tertiary education in Australia.”

(L-R): Director of the Bachelor of Environments, Alan March; Mariana Thomas from Tarkett Australia, and award recipient Brigit Skilbeck For more information on the Tarkett Positive Legacy Design Award visit https://msd.unimelb.edu.au/positivelegacy-design-award.

This year’s winner was selected from six entries by a judging panel of six. As part of the application, students are required to submit four images depicting their design work, along with a written submission. Their application must demonstrate: A contribution to local ecosystem services (including agriculture and local flora and fauna); Passive design integrating local climate potential; A contribution to social benefit for all stakeholders; Consideration of materials used.

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BDAV NEWS

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Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 7 A U G U S T 2017

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Don’t Let Your Building Registration Expire During the June/July BDAV Regional Meetings, the BDAV’s Membership Officer cautioned those in attendance to not let their building registration expire due to the fact that the legislation does not allow the VBA to reinstate you. This would mean you would need to go through the whole registration process as if you were a new candidate. For those of you with your professional indemnity insurance with Webber Insurance, they would have already been in touch with you to assist you with the insurance requirements. For those of you who have your insurance elsewhere, it is recommended you get in touch with your insurer ASAP so that they can put the necessary framework in place to assist you when your renewal comes around. Below is the article published by the VBA on 10 July 2017 which reiterates this message: Building practitioners may be putting their registration at risk by failing to submit their registration renewal form on time, says VBA director of Licensing and Registration Jeff Gilmore.

The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) has contacted building practitioners over the last few months to explain when and how they must renew their registration. “The VBA has not received the expected amount of renewal applications for registrations that are due to expire in July,” says Mr Gilmore. “This means that there are a number of practitioners out there who are at risk of their registration expiring.” Submitting your renewal application on time – What you need to know Practitioners are required to lodge their five-year registration renewal application form with the VBA at least three months before their registration is due to expire. The application due date varies from practitioner to practitioner and is clearly stated on correspondence sent out by the VBA. Practitioners who submit their registration renewal application form less than three months before their registration is due to expire may not have their application processed before their registration expiry date.

What happens if your renewal application is not received before your registration expires? If your renewal is not received before your registration expiry date, your registration will become expired. This means that you: will NOT be a registered building practitioner in your expired category, and cannot lawfully carry out work that can only be performed by a registered building practitioner. The law does not allow the VBA to just reinstate you. You will have to go through the whole registration process from the beginning. If you wish to continue to practise as a registered building practitioner after your registration has expired, you will be required to complete a new registration application form and your knowledge and experience will be re-assessed. Don’t risk it. Be sure you understand the requirements surrounding Five Year Registration Renewal. Further information can be found in the Five Year Registration Renewal Fact Sheet and Frequently Asked Questions at www.vba.vic.gov.au.

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Industry News

BDAV NEWS

How to Future Proof your Home When Building or Renovating Essentials to consider for your Forever Home When building or renovating a home you plan on living in for 15-20 years, you need to ensure it will meet your needs now, as well as in the future as your family’s requirements change. With children becoming teenagers, then moving out of home, the dynamics of family living will alter. “One of the key objectives in making rooms multi-functional is so they can adapt as your family’s needs change’, says Frances Cosway, principal of White Pebble Interiors and author of the book ‘Your Forever Home.” “The trend at the moment is for large retreats, which are generally open spaces unable to be closed off, so their adaptability is limited,” Frances adds. Frances suggests having rooms with doors so they can be used for different purposes as your requirements change. “Instead of an open plan retreat, a room with double sliding cavity doors can be opened up to create a sense of space, yet having the doors creates flexibility in

how the room can be used. For example, it could be a kids’ playroom when the children are younger, a study or retreat for teenagers, or a spare room when the kids leave home”, says Frances. Essentially a room with doors allows you to create a private space when required, where noise can be blocked off, along with being able to close it off to heat or cool just that room, which also saves on energy costs.

a bath in the downstairs bathroom makes it more practical, as stepping in and out of a bath may be a challenge when you’re older”, adds Frances. Frances has published a book called ‘Your Forever Home’ which outlines key areas to consider and prepare for when planning to build or renovate Your Forever Home.

When you are investing so much time, money and effort into building a new home, or renovating, it makes sense to think about how spaces will work now and in the future. Another area to think about is access to key areas of the home when you are older and may find stairs difficult to use. “A master bedroom with key living areas all on the same level enable you to live in your home longer, so it makes sense to plan for the future, which may mean having the master bedroom on the ground floor. Having a shower instead of

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Industry News

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V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 7 A U G U S T 2017

Winners Announced For Dulux Design Tour

Now in its second year, Dulux DIAlogue on Tour is an inspirational expedition, exclusive to DIA and DINZ members across Australia and New Zealand, which gives five design professionals the opportunity to travel to London and Stockholm for an enlightening education from European and Scandinavian design talent. The five Dulux DIAlogue on Tour winners are: 1. Adele Winteridge, Foolscap Studio – Australia 2. Ben Edwards, Studio Edwards – Australia 3. Melissa Reid, Group GSA – Australia 4. Miriam Fanning, Mim Design – Australia 5. Rufus Knight, Knight Associates – New Zealand

Travelling to the two capitals in September, the winners will engage in open dialogue with their hosts, sharing ideas and viewpoints, and showcasing the talent coming out of Australia and New Zealand. For Richard Hansen, General Manager of Trade for Dulux, the tour looks to provide winners with new inspiration to reinvigorate their own design style and career. “We’re delighted to be continuing the Dulux DIAlogue Tour for its second consecutive year and to see that, once again, the calibre of entrants has been truly exceptional,” he says. “The tour is a valuable opportunity for design talent from across Australia and New Zealand to be part of an inspiring cross-pollination of ideas that will undoubtedly bring new perspective and ambition to their future work.

All applicants were required to hold a current DIA or DINZ membership to be eligible to enter the contest. To enter, they answered a series of questions on their own design philosophy and inspiration, and provided commentary on how they would benefit from the opportunity. For more information on the 2017 Dulux DIAlogue on Tour, go to https:// www.dulux.com.au/specifier/servicesand-programs/dialogue-on-tour.

“DIA and DINZ are key institutions shaping the future of design in their respective countries. We hope the Dulux DIAlogue Tour will only reinforce their importance for our industry and support them in continuing to attract a growing cohort of influential designers.”

Adele Winteridge

Dulux has announced the chosen five recipients of its design tour scholarship, Dulux DIAlogue on Tour, delivered in collaboration with the Design Institute of Australia (DIA) and the Designers Institute of New Zealand (DINZ).

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BDAV NEWS

Need someone to conduct an energy rating for you? Use a BDAV Accredited Thermal Performance Assessor! Legislation in several Australian states requires that all domestic construction submitted for building permit approval must demonstrate compliance with energy efficiency requirements. One method for demonstrating this compliance is through the use of software accredited under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). In New South Wales, the BASIX thermal comfort protocol also applies. NatHERS is a star rating system (out of ten) that rates the energy efficiency of a home, based on its design. The BDAV is a government-appointed assessor accrediting organisation for thermal performance assessors and has many accredited assessors as BDAV Members. TPAs accredited through the BDAV are committed to a code of conduct that sets minimum professional standards and responsibilities. To find an assessor for your rating requirements, go to www.bdav.org.au

Building Designers Association of Victoria PO Box 174, Carlton South VIC 3053 P (03) 9416 0227 E info@bdav.org.au www.bdav.org.au


Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 7 A U G U S T 2017

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The Growing Trend of Using Brick for Patterned Designs by Elizabeth McIntyre, CEO of Think Brick Australia People have been rediscovering the ways that brick can be manipulated to create patterns in the side of buildings, murals and artworks as well as different textures. Thanks to the different styles, colours and finishes brick is now available in, architects have been able to cut and use bricks into interesting patterned designs.

The Barcelona

This can be seen in the entries for the Think Brick Awards in the past few years. Architects are pushing the boundaries of the designs which brick has to offer while using the traditional rigidity of this building material to their advantage. Each year, designers and architects find new and innovative ways to apply brick to create rich patterns and textures in both residential and commercial contexts. More about The Barcelona – protruding brick patterns to create textured design – Entrant in the 2016 Horbury Hunt Commercial Award in the Think Brick Awards – Designed by Guida Moseley Brown Architects

This residential building, comprised of 14 apartments, incorporates high quality solid bricks in two contrasting colours. The light cream facade, which houses the main entry to the building, represents the sturdiness and sophistication of the building and helps to articulate its traditional structure and design. Conversely, the darker protruding brick patterns on the opposite end of the apartment block add a rich texture by using an intricate pattern which visually breaks down the size of the building to create a visually appealing structure for passersby. More about The Dr Chau Chak Wing Building – varying brick patterns to portray movement – Winner of the 2015 Horbury Hunt Commercial Award in the Think Brick Awards – Designed by Gehry Partners The innovative use of brick for this UTS Business School demonstrates the ways in which brick can be manipulated to portray a fluid design that is both expressive and unique. Symbolic of UTS and its groundbreaking approach to education, research and teaching, the undulating design pattern gives the appearance of a building which is always in a state of evolution and change. In addition to its distinctive shape, the building’s facade incorporates a number of different patterns which are re-shaped

The Dr Chau Chak Wing Building

through the structure of the building. These patterns reinforce the fluid nature of the building and add an element to the structure which signifies movement and manipulation. More about Mordialloc Pre-School – multi-coloured patterns to create works of art and murals – Entrant in the 2016 Horbury Hunt Commercial Award in the Think Brick Awards – Photo Credit: Ben Wrigley Photohub Photography – Designed by Hede Architects The many different colours and finishes of brick available means that architects can not only use brick to mould textured designs but also use multicoloured patterns to integrate murals and artworks into the design of a building. The Mordialloc Pre-School’s rear wall uses a range of coloured and glazed bricks to portray the Indigenous story of Mordialloc Creek, turning the structure itself into a work of art. About Think Brick Australia

Think Brick Australia represents Australia’s clay brick and paver manufacturers. The Australian brick industry is worth $2.8 billion and employs 30,000 people. Each year the Think Brick Awards encourages architects, designers and builders to rethink brick, concrete masonry and roof tiles as contemporary and sustainable design materials. www.thinkbrick.com.au Mordialloc Pre-School


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BDAV NEWS

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Industry News

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Wall Wrap for Lightweight Clad Construction Vapour permeable, not ‘breather’ by Warren Stewart – CSR Bradford For many years the benefits of ‘breather’ type wall wrap products have been broadly adopted in the market. Yet as construction techniques have changed and the use of lightweight cladding materials has become more prevalent, the performance requirements for wall wrap have also changed. Lightweight cladding, such as fibre cement or metal sheet, typically has a lower moisture buffering capacity and is often constructed without a cavity behind the cladding. The result is that the risk of external and internal (condensation) moisture migration to the frame and insulation is increased. This risk is further increased if there is no cavity behind the cladding, resulting in the cladding being in direct contact with the frame and reducing the drying potential of the wall system. To manage this risk, lightweight cladding manufacturers typically recommend the type of wall wrap required behind the cladding. In most instances this performance requirement requires the wall wrap to meet the two following key properties: 1. Water barrier 2. Vapour permeable This combination of material properties work together to protect

the frame, insulation and ultimately the homeowner in the following ways: Water barrier – prevent the ingress of external moisture/water that may breach the cladding; Vapour permeable – reduce the risk of condensation formation by allowing airborne moisture (water vapour) to escape. So why aren’t traditional ‘breather’ products a suitable alternative? These products are typically vapour barrier products which have been perforated with holes to allow air (and water) transfer. Designed originally for use in brick veneer construction with cavity, these products typically meet one or the other performance requirements for lightweight cladding, but not both. Vapour permeable wall wraps combine these two key performance requirements by using membranes which allow the smaller moisture (water vapour) molecules to pass through the product whilst not allowing the larger water molecules to pass. Whilst there are different ways to achieve this performance requirement, there are a number of key attributes that should be considered at the time of purchase: 1. The wrap should state compliance with AS4200.1 .

2. The wrap must state that it is ‘vapour permeable’ – check by looking for vapour barrier ‘low’ or ‘class 3 or 4’. 3. It must state ‘water barrier high’ or ‘water barrier’. Poor moisture management (internal and external) can lead to mould and damp issues, which may occur inside the wall cavity. Identification and rectification of these problems can be costly, so selection of the right wrap is always recommended. The range of Bradford Enviroseal ProctorWrap vapour permeable wall wraps combine exceptional permeability with high water hold-out to exceed the lightweight clad requirements. Visit externalcladding.com.au for further information.


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Interiors

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Renovation Tips and Insights Granite Transformations’ Ambassador Shaynna Blaze’s Renovation Tips and Insights Whether your clients are working with a modest budget or investing significantly, Shaynna Blaze has the following fundamental tips to consider when renovating:

• Small budget, HUGE inspiration! Collect everything and anything that inspires you, and create your own lookbook or mood board to capture it all. “In the kitchen I was inspired by the heritage of the 1880 building while still making if feel and work as a kitchen of the 21st century. Whereas the bathroom was complete fantasy, taking reference of an era of the pomp and ceremony of the times of Versailles,” says Shaynna.

• Usage – Who is using the space and how? It’s important to think about who is going to be in the area and how the area is going to be used on a daily basis. “Keeping these things in mind helps to create your layout, the appliances and fittings you need, right down to the colour palette you will select.”

• Define your must-haves Both the bathroom and kitchen are frequently used spaces and therefore it’s critical the fittings are both functional and practical but also visually appealing. Ensure you have accounted for those items you can’t live without and build from there. The mood was first priority in the studio for Shaynna: “This is an area that is not just for me so I wanted whoever walks in the room to be transported somewhere. The full-scale Trend Surface mosaic on the end wall was the starting point from where everything was built and then I was able to work out the lighting, fittings and flooring from there.”

• Make the most of the spaces footprint Limited space often restricts the layout of a kitchen or bathroom. Ensure every space is well thought out and planned. “With only one wall for tall items in the kitchen, my main priority was to make sure I would be able to fit as much bench, drawer and cupboard space as possible.”

• Add colour, texture and patterns Colour, texture and patterns are stylistic building blocks of any decorating palette. These key elements help to create the style, mood and the feel of each room.

“The kitchen has subtle features with panel details in the island bench and glass overhead cabinets with a modern twist on the herringbone pattern in the custom subway mirror splashback tiles. The bathroom takes it to a more extreme level of a period style with detail in every form from tiles and light fittings to the furniture which was a signature of the Victorian era, even though all the details aren’t of a Victorian nature.” Shaynna shares her tips on combining colours and textures for an eye catching feature:

• Features are key! A dramatic feature will add instant appeal. Lift a room by injecting colour, texture and drawing the eyes to an area as soon as you enter the room. “Utilise a ‘statement wall’ technique to create a cohesive interior design. For instance, in my studio’s kitchen, the wall for the splashback had a lot going on so I had to make sure the splashback was going to look like part of the kitchen and connect with the bench and overhead cupboards rather than compete. However, in the bathroom I used a mosaic feature as the eye-catching element of the room.”

• Trends in Colour, texture, features and mosaics There are two distinct directions for kitchens and bathrooms and that is the sleek and minimalist look where everything is hidden away, and the opposite of this, with all the appliances and gadgets on show and lots of colour in mosaic

splashbacks. “In my kitchen, I selected smoky grey tiles that worked with the grey painted finish but also has a mirrored finish. This meant it took on the changing light throughout the day, giving different colours and textures to the kitchen. I also got out the old silverware to add that sense of tradition to the kitchen’s contemporary décor, and blended the old with the new in the bathroom with sleek, stylish copper accents.” Continued on page 37.....


USA Study Tour New York & Chicago 24 Sept - 3 Oct 2017 36

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Interiors

Renovation Tips and Insights (continued from page 35) • Ways to add colour and texture It is important to ensure the design and style of a kitchen and bathroom fits the house first, and then personalise with features such as a splashback, door handles and bench top accessories. “The profile of the doors is a great way to add character to a kitchen. I opted for sharp, straight, edgy doors on the wall cabinetry to offset the island bench paneling and blend the period and new styles together. We also needed to consider the 3.7m ceilings, as this meant there was going to be a lot of inaccessible cupboards on a daily basis and having a solid door would have made it feel very top heavy. The glass panel doors are lit from inside so the cupboards double as a display cabinet for my silverware and vases and can be accessed when needed for entertaining.”

• Ways to add colour and texture It is important to ensure the design and style of a kitchen and bathroom fits the house first, and then personalise with features such as a splashback, door handles and bench top accessories. “The profile of the doors is a great way to add character to a kitchen. I opted for sharp, straight, edgy doors on the wall cabinetry to offset the island bench paneling and blend the period and new styles together. We also needed to consider the 3.7m ceilings, as this meant there was going to be a lot of inaccessible cupboards on a daily basis and having a solid door would have made it feel very top heavy. The glass panel doors are lit from inside so the cupboards double as a display cabinet for my silverware and vases and can be accessed when needed for entertaining.”

• Emerging trends in kitchen and bathroom makeovers “Island benches are becoming a real feature in the kitchen, specifically in contrast colours to the wall cabinetry and bench surface. The butler’s pantry is the new wish list item and will become as popular as the master ensuite.” With technology becoming central to the way we live, we are seeing a change in how technology is integrated into the household. “Smart technology is increasingly popular. Appliances today give users the ability to program the cooking to turn on or off and smart phones can now turn the lights on when we arrive in the driveway prior to opening the front door.” Award winning interior designer and television personality, Shaynna Blaze, is the face of Granite Transformations, Australia’s leading kitchen makeover specialists.

Vital Practitioner Resource on Fire Performance of External Walls and Cladding The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) recommends that Victorian building practitioners – particularly those involved in the design, construction, fit-out and oversight of buildings – use the ABCB’s Advisory Note to inform themselves on the Australian Standard for testing external wall assemblies and CodeMark Certificates of Conformity. The Advisory Note was initially developed and published in August 2016, following a meeting of the Building Ministers’ Forum, the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB). Its purpose is to explain how the National Construction Code (NCC) should be interpreted to

assist in future decisions on product selection, installation and certification in relation to the use of high-risk cladding products on high-rise buildings. The Advisory Note superseded an Industry Alert titled ‘External walls and BCA compliance’ issued by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) in February 2016 and updated in June 2016. In September 2016, the ABCB revised the Advisory Note and reissued it as ‘Advisory Note 2016-3 ‘Fire Performance of External Walls and Cladding’. This is available at www.abcb.gov.au.

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BDAV NEWS

You’re good to go with a BDAV Engagement Agreement

Locking down an engagement agreement early in the piece is important in getting the green light to proceed safely with your client’s project. The BDAV’s Engagement Agreement is a respected industry standard that safeguards the Designer’s relationship with their Client. Available only to Full Members of the BDAV via a one-off subscription (which includes any future updates), this excellent document, supplied electronically with license to reproduce as many times as required, covers the full needs of all building design projects, including payment of fees, disbursements, engagement of consultants, copyright, materials and indemnity, nomination of consultants, disputes resolution process, and much more.

The BDAV Engagement Agreement has been highly praised by BDAV Members. It was developed by the BDAV’s former Executive Officer, whose legal background and 40 years’ background in the building industry provided him with a solid understanding of the industry’s needs. Orders may be placed online, at the webshop at the BDAV’s website – www.bdav.org.au – but remember to log-in as a Member before accessing the webshop, as this item is only visible to Full Members. Phone: (03) 9416 0227 Fax: (03) 9416 0115 Email: info@bdav.org.au www.bdav.org.au


Industry News

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Look Up and Enjoy – Gargoyles by Wayne Gorman Traditional design and construction of our stately and ecclesiastical buildings in Australia and New Zealand often stems from our European past. With this comes the striking and diverse ornamentation that adorns so many of our older buildings in the major capital cities. The idea behind the title of this article stems from an age where the vast majority of people walking down the street are engrossed in their personal devices, whether it is for work, business or pleasure. If only they directed their gaze to the upper levels of our older buildings, what a visual feast they would enjoy. The old French ‘gargouille’ meant ‘throat’; the Low Latin ‘gargula’ is a gullet and in English we have the very expressive ‘gargle’. A gargoyle, then, is simply an architectural throat. The essential part is not its grotesque carving as is sometimes supposed, but its capacity to act as a throat, that is, to carry rain-water away from the roof gutters of a building. Utility is its first purpose; decoration comes second. If we were asked “When is a gargoyle not a gargoyle?” our answer would be: “When no water runs out of it”. In the Middle Ages, churches used gargoyles as a reminder that the devil lurks outside, contrasting with the cathedral’s interior, where redemption takes place. This was a form of marketing to an illiterate public among whom superstitions were common. Stonemasons had free choice as to what their

gargoyles should depict or who they should resemble. It is an interesting fact that no two gargoyles are exactly the same. Since ancient times, people have been adorning buildings with statues and symbols. The Egyptians and Greeks, for example, depicted their own deities. The mythical creatures on buildings are often a chimera, (which is a lion, serpent, goat combination) or a gryphon, which is a lion body and head with the wings of an eagle. Dragons were used to symbolise the devil or demons, and became popular in Edwardian architecture as a decorative element. They remain popular as a madeto-order stylish roof feature.

Gargoyles, grotesques and masks have continued through history simply for decorative purposes. Next time you are visiting Adelaide, Auckland, Melbourne or Sydney, cast your eyes upwards and explore for yourself the carvings of the past.

References http://www.medieval-life-and-times. info/medieval-art/gargoyles.htm https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/ why-gargoyles-and-gryphons-keepwatch-over-cities http://www.norwich-churches.org/ Glossary/glossary.shtm Gargoyles of Melbourne, Quaint and Curious Carvings By John Russell Parry


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Graduates

BDAV NEWS

Get designs on your future. If you’re a Graduate of Building Design or Interior Design, why not consider a Graduate Membership of the Building Designers Association of Victoria. It’s a great pathway to ensure your future career plan or vision comes true. Amongst other benefits – including free job listings – BDAV Graduate Membership enables you to network with practitioners running their own design practice – who could be your future employers. To see what your future holds, go to www.bdav.org.au or contact the BDAV at info@bdav.org.au


V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 7 A U G U S T 2017

Job Market

Job Market Draftsperson/Building Designer Required

Designer/Draftsperson Required – Flexible Arrangement Available

Small building design office in Gippsland is seeking a contract position/ part-time employee with a minimum of 3 years’ industry experience in residential design. Applicants must be proficient in the use of ArchiCAD, have a sound knowledge of the building regulations, and be able to complete town planning and construction drawings in a timely manner. If interested, please forward to your resume to jessica@jembuildingdesigns. com.au.

Designers by Nature is looking for a vibrant, passionate, and lateralthinking person to join our national and state award-winning design team. The position is highly flexible, and can be full-time, contract or casual, depending on the successful applicant’s preferred option. Compensation commensurate to experience and skill-set. Ideal for someone who can work efficiently from their home while maintaining good communication with clients and the rest of our team. Our company is leading the way in innovation, having recently moved to a remote office set-up offering high levels of flexibility and customer service. Minimum skills required are 5+ years’ experience in construction documents; ArchiCad 19 or above; site measure; ability to liaise with all consultants; excellent communication skills. Additional desired skills include Project Management (tendering, supervision, and contract management); energy rating; interior detailing and design. Applications with resume and cover letter to dechlan@designersbynature.com.au.

Draftsperson Required Roy Hodgson Design seeks a confident and motivated experienced draftsperson to join their Malvern East team. The person we seek will be capable of dealing with clients, a great problemsolver and will have proven Revit-based drafting experience working on residential new homes and extensions. Please send your CV and 3 PDF examples of your work to admin@rhdesign.com.au.

Building Designer/Architect Required Small practice located in Mornington requires a part-time/casual designer to work as part of our team on exciting residential projects. Applicants must have extensive ArchiCAD skills, and a passion for design and innovation. Position covers all aspects of residential design, planning and documentation. Terms are flexible, with future opportunities within the practice. Please forward interest to enquiries@3ddd.net.au.

The amendment primarily clarifies existing provisions of the NCC, including evidence of suitability. The current requirements of the Code relating to preventing the spread of fire within and between buildings through the use of noncombustible wall claddings, which have been the subject of review by the ABCB’s

To have your job listing posted in this column, email your listing to info@bdav.org.au (free service for BDAV Members) designs through to town planning and working drawings. Those with creative flair, attention to detail and effective time management are encouraged to apply. Email CV and folio to info@369design. com.au.

Office Admin Assistant Required Building design office in Carlton seeks a motivated and organised office admin and management person 1-2 days a week part-time. The role would consist of payroll, general office admin duties, liaising with councils and authorities. Some job management and supervision may be required. Previous experience in the building and construction industry or design office is preferable but not essential. Experience with Xero and computer literacy essential. Email CV and enquiries to info@369design.com.au.

Building Designer Required Building design office in Carlton seeks experienced Building Designer (min. 5 years’ experience). Contract position, part-time/full-time opportunity. Potential to become permanent after 3-6 months. We seek someone who is an all-rounder who can liaise directly with clients and authorities, has ability to work unsupervised and able to prepare concept

NCC to be Amended Out-of-Cycle The Australian Building Codes Board has advised that the NCC will be amended out-of-cycle. This results from the Building Ministers’ direction to expedite completing and adopting those actions from the comprehensive package of measures involving any changes to the NCC. The amendment will be known as NCC 2016, Volume One Amendment 1.

Posting Job Listings

technical Building Codes Committee, will not change. The amendment also features referencing of AS 5113 Fire propagation testing and classification of external walls of buildings as a new Verification Method and referencing of the revised sprinkler standard AS 2118 Automatic fire sprinkler systems. Revising the National Advisory Note to reflect any related updates and publishing a new supporting handbook is also underway and will accompany the amendment release. The amendment involves releasing a public comment draft in late August/ September 2017 with adoption anticipated in March 2018.

Industry recruitment specialists for Architects, Building Designers, Property Developers and Interior Designers Remuneration advice, market updates, expert knowledge, permanent, temporary and contract recruitment.

Phone 03 9349 1055 www/bloomfieldtremayne.com.au

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Industry News

BDAV NEWS

Australia’s First Official Guide to Cooling Cities Australia’s first national guide designed to keep city dwellers cooler during hot weather by helping landscape architects, urban designers, planners, local authorities, government agencies and developers mitigate urban heat islands and microclimates created by cities, was recently launched at the CRC for Low Carbon Living’s (CRCLCL) Cooling Cities National Forum. UNSW’s Dr Paul Osmond and CRLCL project leader, who led the research and industry team that compiled the Guide to Urban Cooling Strategies said it covered different climate zones that define cities across Australia. “The range of urban landscapes that the Guide covers include dense inner cities, middle ring and outer suburbs with a focus on design intervention, including streetscapes, plazas, squares and malls”, he said. “The importance of design which embraces vegetation cover, particularly tree canopy; the use of shade to minimise heat; and the orientation of these elements are also key to cooling. Interventions may be active, such as misting systems and awnings, or passive, like street trees, green roofs, water bodies, cool roofs and facades. “All these elements have an effect on urban temperatures. For example, radiant temperatures in urban parks with sufficient irrigation can be 2-4°C cooler compared with adjacent unvegetated or built-up areas, while air temperature reduction may be up to 2°C according to a park’s extent and the proportion of trees. This is is known as the park cool island effect”, explained Dr Osmond. “The Guide also highlights the fact that street trees contribute to radiant and air temperature reduction by evapotranspiration and shading over buildings and street surfaces. A streetscape with heavy tree canopy can enjoy up to 15°C cooler surfaces and 1.5°C cooler air temperature compared with a street with no tree canopy and shade”, he said. Three dimensions contexualise the effectiveness of urban cooling strategies are used in the Guide: urban form, climate type and the nature of intervention. This matrix provides the Guide’s framework in terms of process (methods) and product (the design outcomes). Dr Osmond explained that urban climates are ultimately created from a

balance between the heat of the sun and heat lost from walls, roofs and ground; by heat exchange via air movement between ground, buildings and atmosphere; and by heat generation within the city itself, for example from motor transport.

research along with global research, it cross-references to our Microclimate and Urban Heat Island Decision-Support Tool project and benefits from relevant research at the CRC for Water Sensitive Cities”, said Professor Prasad.

“Global climate change and the urban heat island phenomenon – where cities absorb and release more heat than the surrounding countryside – carry growing potential to make urban life at particular times and places an exercise in lowgrade misery. Studies across the world’s major cities show that a systematic higher average temperature of 2°C to 12°C exists in highly-urbanised areas compared with their rural surroundings”, Dr Osmond said.

“The Guide combines high quality research with the input of industry and government partners. Government and industry partners of the CRCLCL, such as HASSELL, AECOM and Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) were instrumental in producing a Guide which reflects the needs of end-users.”

“Improving liveability, health and wellbeing are critical challenges for our cities, especially in light of our rapidly changing climate. This guide will provide built environment professionals with evidence based design strategies that can be directly applied to projects, no matter what scale, and ultimately help keep our cities cool”, said Brett Pollard, Principal at industry partner in the project’s HASSELL Studio. CRCLCL CEO, Professor Deo Prasad AO, said the Guide was also a major milestone in the CRCLCL’s work as it brings together data from a three-year Urban Microclimates project it has funded. “This publication is unique, as it not only draws on our painstaking three year

Roger Swinbourne, Technical Director at AECOM noted that as a multidisciplinary infrastructure firm, AECOM is proud to be an industry partner of the CRCLCL. “We see the benefits of bringing academic rigour to the way we plan our public domain and how it can influence the way cities deliver open space”, he said. “Our research is driven by the needs of end-users and I believe the Guide to Urban Cooling Strategies should be read by all those involved in creating built environments so they can plan and design for the future, to ensure generations to come will be living in cities that minimise the effects of climate change, particularly when extreme heat is an outcome”, concluded Swinbourne.

Energy in Buildings: 50 best practice initiatives

A special report by the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and Norman Disney & Young The handbook Energy in Buildings: 50 Best Practice Initiatives is intended to provide information and raise awareness about initiatives that can help property owners or managers reduce energy costs and cut emissions for their buildings. This handbook aims to identify initiatives that you won’t find in the current National Construction Code (NCC), helping to promote best practice energy performance in the property sector. This handbook is intended to guide the selection of possible initiatives at the earliest stages of design and planning only. It provides advice of a very general nature, and should not be used

as a substitute for specialist projectspecific advice from building industry professionals. Getting the architectural built form right in the first place is Number One in the list and provides the least cost initiative with shortest payback period. Good for all BDAV members to be aware, so that you are able to appropriately value the contribution you can make to projects when you are attuned to the issues of energy efficiency. To download the report, go to www.ndy.com


BDAV membership is the ultimate designers ‘must have’.

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Membership Benefits include: • Belong to a true non-profit Association • Discounts on industry and business tools/services • Monthly Journal: BDAV News • Weekly eNews • Annual Awarded Magazine • Member updates • Continuing Professional Development: comprehensive program of seminars, workshops, webinars, and regional meetings • Documents for building projects: – project specifications – engagement agreements – indemnity documents – standard form contracts for residential and non-residential projects • Reference material, including a great suite of Practice Notes, Advisory Notes, and much more • Free* advice on matters including copyright, contracts, wages and conditions, legislative and regulatory requirements, etc • Access to Professional Indemnity Insurance through our preferred insurance agent • Accreditation for Thermal Performance Assessors • Lobbying and Representation • Annual Building Design Awards to promote your skills as a designer • Annual 10 Star Sustainable Design Challenge to promote knowledge of energy efficiency principles • Free website listing to generate referrals for your business in Find a Building Designer/Energy Rater

One look inside tells you that being a Member of the Building Designers Association of Victoria entitles you to many member benefits. Advantages such as important information to help you to promote your business, advice* for greater efficiencies, and especially our comprehensive Continuing Professional Development program, will assist you to reap the rewards.

• Free Job Listings for Members seeking staff or Members looking for work

Being a BDAV Member is a sound investment for your business – especially for sole-practitioners, who often work ‘in a vacuum’ and value peer support for advice and guidance.

• Help Desk

Phone: (03) 9416 0227 Fax: (03) 9416 0115 Email: info@bdav.org.au www.bdav.org.au *Advice is of an elementary nature. Anything significantly complex should be referred to an appropriate professional advisor. BDAV is an approved CPD Provider for the Victorian building industry, as administered by Victoria’s Building Commission.

• Student Scholarships/Grants/ Awards

• Online Member Forum • Access to latest information from the nation’s leading suppliers • Networking • Use of BDAV logo: provides recognition on your website and business stationery and much more!


designing amazing spaces

Building Designers can offer an incredible range of design skills to your project To get in touch with a BDAV building designer, go to www.bdav.org.au


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