Intersect July 2018

EDITION 6

J U L Y 2 0 1 8

HardieSmart

SYSTEMS

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AGED CARE WALL Between rooms and corridors in aged care facilities, HardieSmart ™ Aged Care wall system is your go-to for easy installation. Its single layer compact design makes it versatile, fast to build into any design and a real space-saver.

ZEROLOT ™ If you’re building multiple occupancies in one, this system lets you construct independently so you can build as you sell and keep things moving. It’s also compact to give you more living space.

BLADE WALL This compact wall helps separate the outside from what's in, leaving you with more breathing room. It’s especially useful for narrow sites.

INTERTENANCY WALL For common walls in semis, this is a single layer that’s fast to install and more compact – giving you more living space.

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©2017 Copyright James Hardie Australia Pty Ltd ABN 12 084 635 558 ™ and ® denotes trademarks and registered marks owned by James Hardie Technology Ltd.

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Contents COVER STORY – VENENDO INSIEME

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FROM THE PRESIDENT

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I N T E R V I E W : P R O F I L I N G K E V I N S L AT E R

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INDUSTRY NEWS

19

COPYRIGHT 27 PLANNING TOPICS

31

T PA T O P I C S

35

PROJECT PROFILE

39

JOB MARKET

44

DISCLAIMER Publication of an article or inclusion of an advertisement in this edition does not infer that the BDAV agrees with the views expressed, or message conveyed, nor does it imply endorsement of products. In addition, the BDAV does not accept responsiblity for any errors or omissions. No content may be reproduced without the written permission of the BDAV. Requests should be lodged to The Editor, at info@bdav.org.au.

Cover Story – Venendo Insieme

COVER STORY – VENENDO INSIEME

Successful kitchen contributes to understated minimalist family residence that offers subtle, quietly luxurious contemporary living.

The kitchen is completely concealed with its hot plate and functional cooking zone tucked behind a retractable cupboard that opens up when its time to fire up the wok.

Design Unity won the award for Most Innovative Kitchen Design in the BDAV’s 2017 Building Design Awards for their cleverly designed kitchen in their Venendo Insieme project. The Judges described this as an example of a utility area being conceived as a piece of furniture. The minimalist white island bench features a mirror treatment to create a floating effect that visually extends the dining area. The cabinetry surrounding the preparation bench is thoughtfully detailed to frame the appliances. Within the two exposed appliances sits a hamper door that conceals the preparation bench alcove. Through skilful space-planning measures such as hiding refrigeration in the butler’s pantry, the designers have been able to achieve an uncluttered kitchen that is part of the family area. The absence of handles and striking lights makes this kitchen sleek and stylish.

Dedication to the minimalist ethos led to the kitchen being almost completely concealed. When it comes time to prepare a meal, the functional cooking zone pops up from the retractable cupboards that hide it.

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“ Through skilful space-planning measures such as hiding refrigeration in the butler’s pantry, the designers have achieved an uncluttered kitchen that is part of the family area. ” MARC BERNSTEIN-HUSSMANN C H A I R , J U D G I N G PA N E L

The refrigerator, food storage, and kitchen appliances are tucked away in a large butler’s pantry. The only enduring culinary elements are a central island bench with a sink and streamline tapware.

scape of high-design houses. The site was nestled between neighbouring residences on a long narrow block, so maintaining privacy was a key consideration, as was keeping the street frontage deliberately subdued.

Venendo Insieme means coming together. Warren Jenkins from Design Unity describes this Berwick residence as a “surprise house”. The clients have a passion for architecture but they wanted their new home to be understated and blend in with the street-

“We designed a flat roof to give the house a low profile and a cantilevered form over the entrance hall that makes quite a statement, but when you walk in through the door the place is open, spacious and filled with light Continued page 9.....

C over S tory – V enendo I nsieme

7

that is the ‘surprise’ element.” Others will find the elegant ‘turtle pond’ in the front yard another wonderment.

One of the family members has limited vision, so the house is designed across one level with careful consideration of transitions between rooms. The exterior landscaping has also been levelled to the house. There are no steps inside and the one at the front entrance is illuminated. Like the architectural structure, the interior is minimalist, uncluttered and easy to maintain.

While the front of the home is discrete, the rear portion features extensive glazing to capture the northern sun and carry the eye out across the pool and rear garden.

Bathrooms conform to the pared back aesthetic with little spared on detail and fittings. The main bathroom features a large floating vanity with mounted sink, a custom made mirror, and polished plaster wall: it’s a space that says – in a soft muted voice – ‘luxury’ rather than austerity.

DESIGNER

Design Unity Pty Ltd www.designunity.com.au

BUILDER

T & J Designer Builders

PHOTOGRAPHY

Matthew Mallett Photography

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C over S tory – V enendo I nsieme

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“ Dedication to the minimalist ethos led to the kitchen being almost completely concealed. When it comes time to prepare a meal, the functional cooking zone pops up from the retractable cupboards that hide it. ” — WA — RREN JENKINS, DESIGN UNITY

From the President

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SE VEN STEPS TO CONSIDER BEFORE UPSIZING YOUR HOME BDAV President, Lindsay Douglas, provides advice you can share with your clients who are considering an extension to their existing home.

It’s a scenario and dilemma familiar to thousands of Aussie families across the country. A home once considered more than capable of coping with additions to the family unit is now bursting at the seams and no longer fit for purpose. However, the idea of moving and starting all over again is both terrifying and inconvenient. So, what to do?

I regularly deal with clients who face this predicament and my advice – more often than not – is to consider an extension. But why even contemplate one and what are the steps on the extension journey?

1. DESIGN BRIEF

Share your needs and your vision for the extension with a building designer. Think about the size of certain spaces, the connections you want between the extension and the original home, and how you envisage the end product. The right building designer will be able to consider your needs and articulate solutions into a detailed design brief, which they will use to achieve the best possible outcome.

2. OLD VERSUS NEW

Adding an extension to your home is an opportunity to add a new chapter to the story of the original building, while simultaneously integrating it with the original structure. To maintain continuity, it’s important to consider design elements and materials used in the original home that you would like to carry across to the extension.

The extension doesn’t necessarily need to replicate the existing, but it needs to recognise and address the existing – even if it’s in contrast to it.

3. BUDGET

It’s important to establish up front how much you’re comfortable spending on an extension. Many people make the mistake of engaging a builder before the scope of the project has been clearly defined. Before beginning work on an extension, consider potential unknown conditions that may arise within the existing building and assign an appropriate contingency allowance to cover this. A builder is an expert at building whereas a building designer has the expertise to interrogate the brief against the existing building and assist their client develop an appropriate budget plan.

4 . VA L U E

Once you have consulted with the building designer, prior to the commencement of any extension, it’s in a property owner’s best interests to also consult a real estate agent to establish the value of the original home. Many older homes have unrealised potential, and a well-designed extension can significantly increase the value of the building. It is important to consider the location of the home and how future property owners could maximise the living space. Every N E W S . B D AV. O R G . AU

square metre you build costs money, so it’s crucial to design with purpose, and to do it without exceeding the ceiling value of your area.

5. Q U E S T I O N YO U R L I F E S T YL E

Do you intend to work from home one day? How many children would you like to have? Do you like to entertain at home? While an extension to your home should reflect your current lifestyle, it is also an opportunity to lay the foundations for the future, making the home as practical as possible for the length of time you plan to live in it.

6. TEAM

A successful building extension comes down to the team responsible for its design and construction. Each stage must be allocated adequate time and attention to ensure the extension meets the property owner’s expectations and needs, incorporates value-enhancing elements and helps realise the home’s true potential. When assembling a project team, take note of recommendations, request supplier portfolios, check references, confirm costs and consider the entire range of services on offer.

7 . S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y

We all have personal views on the environment and the degree to which human impact has affected it. I firmly believe our built environment consumes a huge amount of energy and resources, and that we should do everything we can to reduce that rate of consumption.

Many of my clients share these sentiments and there are many and various ways property owners can ensure an extension is designed as sustainably as possible. It’s important to consider how the building can maximise solar gain, increase ventilation, and prevent heat loss. A building designer can explore and suggest a range of different options on how clients can best achieve these environmental savings as part of their new build.

There is no doubt commissioning an extension to your home can seem like a daunting, expensive task. Property owners have a lot to consider before construction can even begin. However, by leveraging the right people, with the right expertise, property owners can feel confident in each step of the extension process.

After all, remember you can achieve your dream home without stepping outside your current one.

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Workplaces: Wellness + Wood = Productivity

“Until recently, we’ve really not had a whole lot of evidence to support that common hypothesis that having things like wooden surfaces in the office would be good for your wellbeing.”*

“What I found and got really excited about was that there’s a really strong association between the presence of wood and wellbeing. I’ve rarely seen a data set or a study which has shown such a clear link.”*

“If you’re a worker and you could see no wooden surfaces at all from your workplace, 53% of that type of worker was satisfied with what was going on in their workplace.

When you move that up to having eight or more wooden surfaces - we’re talking things here like wooden chairs, wooden panelling on the walls, wooden floorboards, even quite small wooden items- but if you get to eight or more, then 82% of people were satisfied with their work.”*

“Having wooden surfaces in your workplace is strongly associated with: improved worker wellbeing, workplace satisfaction, and with all the positive things that can flow from that like improved productivity.”* N E W S . B D AV. O R G . AU

Download the free report - Workplaces: Wellness + Wood = Productivity at woodsolutions.com.au/ wood-at-work

*Associate Professor Jacki Schirmer, Health and Wellbeing Researcher, University of Canberra

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InterVIEW

INTERVIEW

Kevin Slater, of Kevin Slater Design in Bendigo, has been a long-standing and highly-regarded Member of the BDAV since joining in 1983. Kevin is one of the inaugural members on the Steering Committee that formed the BDAV back then. He served as BDAV President from 1989-1991 during a significant period of growth for the BDAV. On the eve of his retirement, we interviewed Kevin, who shares the following observations with us: Q: What motivated you to join the BDAV back in 1983?

A: As an individual conducting my building design practice, I was very keen to join likeminded others to form the Association and to share common areas of concern.

Q: What has been a major (or notable) event/activity that has impacted the profession in your time in the industry?

A: The whole profession is now regulated by the Victorian Building Authority.

with friends. (As an aside, I am travelling overseas in August this year with my wife and would have loved to have been a member of the Scandinavian study tour.)

Q: When I was a child I wanted to be?

A: An architect.

Q: What has been your most memorable business/design achievement during your time in the industry?

A: During my 48 years of business in Bendigo, I have always thoroughly enjoyed the whole design process and interaction with my clients, many of whom were repeat clients.

Q: Have you observed any significant changes in the way the profession now operates that have required you to change your procedures/operations?

Q: My favourite Australian building is?

A: Sydney Opera House.

Q: My favourite international building is?

A: Guggenheim building Bilbao Spain

A: The degree of additional information required in building documentation, especially in bushfire prone areas, building energy rating, glazing and sustainability.

Q: I am passionate about?

Q: Which of your projects over the years are you most proud?

Q: Any closing words of advice for existing members?

A: One of my earliest major projects in 1970 was the whole design documentation and contract administration of Golden Square (suburb of Bendigo) Senior Citizens Clubrooms. An unidentified mine shaft was discovered near to the front wall of the building!!! This building still stands and now serves as a community centre for many clubs.

A: Sharing knowledge, resolving design or building construction problems with fellow members via online communication.

A: With a self-managed super fund, I am quite passionate about dealing in the stock market.

I would be most happy to share my years of being in this profession as a mentor to students or with newer members of the BDAV.

Q: What advice would you give a student building designer?

A: Never stop learning; constantly, new materials and construction methods are evolving.

Q: How do you see yourself spending your retirement days?

A: Taking up golf again. National and international travel. Local bushwalking for continued fitness. Enjoying restaurant dinners

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Industry News

P R O F E S S I O N A L I N D E M N I T Y I N S U R A N C E AVA I L A B I L I T Y F O R B U I L D I N G S U R V E YO R S

Late last month, the CEO of the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors, Brett Mace - MAICD, issued a bulletin to its members advising that the AIBS is aware of a recent sudden tightening in the market for Professional Indemnity Insurance for its members.

“AIBS members with policies now due for renewal may be unable to obtain a new policy without exclusions around external cladding specifically and NCBP generally.”

“In most jurisdictions this means that building surveyors or firms unable to obtain policies without exclusions may not be able to fulfil statutory requirements for registration and will need to cease undertaking statutory roles,” said Mr Mace.

“While AIBS has been concerned about the potential for this situation to arise and we have been monitoring it in consultation with our national insurance partner BRIC, we had anticipated that exclusionfree policies would still be available, albeit at an increased premium.

However, just last week, Bovill Risk & Insurance Consultants (BRIC) advised AIBS that there has been a sudden and ‘seismic shift’ in the insurance market around PI insurance for building professionals, with building surveyors among the hardest hit.”

Mr Mace went on to communicate to its members that the AIBS was aware of the critical nature of the problem faced right now by many of its members and what the AIBS is doing about it. This information is contained at the AIBS website.

W H AT A I B S I S D O I N G

Late last month, the AIBS contacted all Building Ministers in all jurisdictions via formal letter and informal approaches to the Ministers and their senior staff both within Ministerial offices and in their relevant departments. The initial aim is to alert the Ministers to the issue and its critical and urgent nature.

In Queensland, the response to the news was immediate with the Minister acknowledging the need to address this issue as quickly and efficiently as possible. AIBS held discussions with senior members in the department, who are now well aware of the issue.

“In Victoria, we are aware the Minister has called for his department to provide an urgent briefing on the matter. We are continuing to work with government in these and other jurisdictions,” said Mr Mace.

“AIBS has advised governments to allow registration of all practitioners with exclusions in their PI policies as an interim measure so they can continue to work. However, we are very aware that the presence of exclusions in insurance policies is most unsatisfactory for both the building surveyors concerned and for the general public.”

“We believe that this reaction to the cladding issue by the insurance industry is a knee-jerk reaction that will achieve very little, other than to potentially cause chaos in the building industry and threaten the livelihood of some industry professionals. New exclusions in new policies will not mitigate past risks. Amendments to Volume

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1 of the NCC to address cladding fire risks that came into effect in March will significantly reduce the risk in future,” said Mr Mace.

“Therefore, we are strongly advocating for a better solution going forward and AIBS is now seeking to engage with governments, the construction and insurance industries to examine the issue in greater detail and to develop longer term solutions for the future.”

ADVICE FOR AIBS MEMBERS

“An excellent and informative document has been developed by BRIC in consultation with AIBS. It contains valuable information which you can find below.”

“And, as part of advice provided to Ministers, AIBS draws your attention to part of the BRIC information which says: “Professional Indemnity insurance operates on a ‘claims-made’ basis, which means that it is the current policy that supports claims arising out of past and current work. Therefore, if an exclusion is applied from renewal, that exclusion will apply to any claims made after that renewal no matter when the work was done, unless the insurer has already been told about that specific circumstance.”

“Therefore, it is important for AIBS members who are unable to obtain new policies without conditions or exclusions to do all you can to identify and notify your insurers of any potential claim that may arise in the future before your current policy expires.”

“If you are in this situation or unsure, it might be worthwhile seeking independent legal advice to assist you to understand the notification process and ramifications.”

SUMMARY

“AIBS will continue to work with governments in all jurisdictions to address the current issues and how it can be dealt with in the future, but our immediate concern is to ensure those building surveyors faced with losing their business, are able to maintain their registration and continue to practice.”

“AIBS has been warning for some time that this issue with PI insurance was looming. In April 2018, AIBS issued a statement which contains a number of recommendations for the short, medium and long term. Given the current crisis and the change in the ‘landscape’, AIBS will now review these recommendations and advocate them to government with the aim of achieving a more stable building regulatory system and providing an acceptable level of cover for consumers and building surveying professionals.”

Obviously, BDAV will be monitoring this situation, and any resultant impact on our Members.

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V B A U P D AT E

The Victorian Building Authority has provided an update on their recent communications and process changes:

received will be more formal and legalistic in order to comply with the requirements of the Act and disciplinary process,” said the VBA.

• Registration details – Last month they sent an email to approximately 6,500 companies with their new registration details. The purpose of this email was to allow companies to prepare for the 1 July changes pending receipt of their certificate of registration in early July. A further 1,500 companies were to also receive the same email late last month.

• Police checks – Further to some recent discussion regarding improving our police check process, from 1 July the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) has made changes to the documents that will be accepted in support of police checks. The 100 points of ID system will no longer be valid and it will be replaced with a new system requiring 4 pieces of ID. The VBA said: “Our existing provider has introduced a system where applicants will no longer have to complete a police check form as part of their application. Instead, once we have received an application we will send the applicant a link with instructions for them to complete their police check. Once completed, we will be able to access the results online.”

• Renewal of registration – As you will be aware, renewal of registration applications are now required to be lodged with the VBA at least three months prior to expiry. A late fee of $110 is payable for late applications. If applications are lodged prior to expiry and the late fee is paid the registration will remain current until the VBA makes a decision.

Companies whose registration expiry takes place in July or August due to a nominee director expiry were sent an email last month advising that their company’s registration will expire soon, even though it’s just been registered. The VBA said: “We have asked these practitioners to reply ‘yes’ to the email if they want to apply for renewal meaning the company registration will continue pending a decision of the VBA. We have waived the renewal fee and late fee for these companies and will send them a renewal form in the next few weeks. A draft of this email is attached. We have already had a high response rate from practitioners replying ‘yes’.”

• Annual fee and insurance – Companies whose annual fee and insurance check is due in July or August were also sent an email last month advising that their company’s annual fee and insurance check is due soon. The annual fee and insurance check date is also aligned with the nominee director’s due date. The VBA said: “We will waive the annual fee for these companies.”

There will be changes from 1 July in how the VBA suspends practitioners who fail to comply with the annual fee and insurance requirements. Currently, practitioners must be suspended under s172(3) for failing to comply with the requirements. From 1 July, this power is removed and will be required to be dealt with through the disciplinary process as a ground for immediate suspension (s180). Practitioners failing to pay their annual (VBA) fee and provide proof of required insurance will receive a ‘show cause’ notice in the first instance and given the opportunity to comply with the requirements of the Act prior to the immediate suspension taking effect. Practitioners will be given reminders of their annual obligations commencing approximately six weeks prior to the due date as per the existing process.

“We anticipate this will have minimal impact on practitioners in a practical sense and most will just pay the fee and provide proof of insurance once a ‘show cause’ is received. However, the letters

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“We will be implementing this change as soon as possible and processing any existing police check forms received as a priority.

However, there may be some practitioners who lodge their applications after 1 July using the old police check process. These practitioners will need to complete another police check using the new process. We will contact these practitioners to explain the change and send them a link to complete the new process,” said the VBA. “We will continue to look at ways to make the police check process more efficient.”

YO U R H O M E Your Home is currently a Commonwealth Government funded information source or ‘guide’ to building, buying or renovating a home.

In 2017, ACIL Allen was commissioned to undertake a strategic review of Your Home. This review found that Your Home provides information that can be used by the building professionals who consumers interact with, as a means of encouraging behavioural change. Research undertaken for this review suggests that Your Home is unique and stands apart from other information on home design and renovation provided by the commercial world. It is a highly-regarded resource and there is unanimous support for government continuing to maintain it.

If you would like to be involved in a workshop and/or be part of the discussions, please email NEPPSecretariat@environment.gov.au.

[Source: NatHERS Star]

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

by Kate Bell The BDAV is pleased to report that the Victorian building design qualification – Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural) – has been reaccredited until December 2023.

On completion, the graduates will have the skills and knowledge to design and develop architectural working drawings for the construction of residential, commercial and industrial buildings, thereby enabling them to: • interpret client needs through sketch and design; • interpret building legislation; • utilise technology to develop plans and documentation for construction methods and specifications; • liaise with building surveyors and builders; • negotiate with local council;

• understand probable cost comparisons;

Teresa Signorella (Curriculum Maintenance Manager) and her staff. A special thank you to the building design members who volunteered their time and expertise for this exercise – Alex Cornall (Cornall Building Design); Rhys Davies (Supernatural Group); Tim Ellis (Glow Design Group) and Geoff oare (Graaph Design).

• process contract administration.

The other outcome is that the qualification ticks the ‘knowledge’ box for the Victorian Building Authority once a graduate has enough experience to seek registration.

As per previous reaccreditation processes, a substantial amount of the course is unchanged, with only minor amendments having been made. This, in part, is due to the robustness of the design of the original course.

The BDAV would like to thank all those who were involved in the reaccreditation process – Susan Gaylor (Victorian Building Authority); Catherine Ciaverella (Victorian Advanced Building Studies Network); Jane Clancy (Swinburne University); Wayne Ketchen (The Gordon);

The next step in the process is for BDAV to lobby the Federal Education Department to make sure that the new qualification is listed on the VET Student Loan scheme for 1 January 2019, as well as have the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning update the Victorian Building Regulations to include the updated course code.

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VBA CONTINUES CRACKDOWN ON COMBUSTIBLE CLADDING

Early last month, the Victorian Building Authority contacted registered builders and property developers asking for a report on the type of cladding they intend to use on the exteriors of projects and multi-storey buildings under construction.

Responses to such request were required to be received by the VBA by 8 June 2018.

More than 800 individuals and companies received notice from the VBA asking them to confirm what building materials have been specified for use on projects that haven’t started or are in progress, as part of the Victorian statewide cladding audit.

The move came after the VBA received $16.5 million from the Victorian Government to continue addressing non-compliant cladding and increase site inspections across the state.

As part of the notice:

The VBA has now inspected more than 95 per cent of occupied buildings prioritised by the Taskforce and is also focusing on current and upcoming projects considered at risk of using combustible cladding.

• Building surveyors will be asked to

review building permit documentation, particularly in relation to fire safety.

• All recipients will have received a copy

of the Building Product Safety Alert warning on the dangers of improper use of ACP and EPS as external cladding, and Minister’s Guideline 14.

The Authority’s chief executive Sue Eddy said time is critical when dealing with combustible materials and urged the building industry to respond to the VBA’s notice as soon as possible.

• Property developers and building

‘’The new mandatory reporting requirement will give the VBA the information needed to drive safety and prevent the improper use of combustible cladding on buildings.

“Using this information, the VBA can better target its inspections, protect the public and help restore confidence in the building industry.”

companies will be directed to ensure prescribed combustible cladding is not used on future projects, unless approved by the Building Appeals Board.

More information about the Victorian statewide cladding audit is available at vba.vic.gov.au/cladding.

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DULUX DIALOGUE ON TOUR DESIGN SCHOLARSHIP

The DIA and Dulux have announced the winners of the 2018 Dulux DIAlogue on Tour design scholarships. This joint initiative of the DIA, Dulux and Designers Institute of New Zealand, provides five winners with an inspirational design tour of Tokyo and Los Angeles in August 2018. They will meet and share ideas and insights with internationally acclaimed designers in Japan and America.

Following the tour, each winner will share their experiences at the Dulux DIAlogue Forecast Conversations event nationwide, where, in October/November, Dulux, Warwick and Laminex will present their colour forecasts for the coming year.

• Amanda Henderson, Founder and Creative Director of Gloss Creative (Melbourne)

This program is supported by DIA Patron, Dulux, a much valued and long-time partner of the DIA. All tour costs including flights, accommodation and meals will be paid for as part of the prize.

• Sarah-Jane Pyke, Co-Principal of Arent&Pyke (Sydney)

Cathy Veninga, CEO of DINZ, proudly supports the tour saying, “DIAlogue on Tour is a very special opportunity for the winning designers to not only enrich their own understanding of design within another culture, but also with their colleagues on tour. As they get to know each other, they will draw out of each other design conversations of incredible depth.”’

• Daniel Dalla Riva, Design Director of Environments, Latitude Group (Melbourne)

The winners are: • Cushla McFadden, Director of TomMarkHenry (Sydney)

• Andy Florkowski, Associate Director, RCG Limited (Auckland)

Last year’s Dulux DIAlogue on Tour winners described their experience as “an opportunity like none that I had ever experienced before” and “completely inspiring – every meeting and excursion, every day”.

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B U I L D I N G R E G U L AT I O N A M E N D M E N T S E F F E C T I V E 1 J U LY 2 0 1 8

by Kate Bell

Further limitations on the issuing of building permits (s24A)

 Building work is to be carried out by a builder who is specified under 24B.  Where the cost of domestic work is greater than $16,000 the builder named in a contract and on the certificate of insurance must be identical.  The builder named in a permit is responsible for the building work  Where a builder is a body corporate, a natural person’s name must be specified.

The items which directly related to registered building designers:

Specification of builders in relation to specific building work (s24B)

 Specifies who can be listed as the builder in relation to domestic and other building work at various costs. Ties back to s24A.

• Fit and proper person test

Notice of ending the engagement of a builder (s25A)

 A builder or owner may provide written notice to the RBS. The effect of this notice is suspension of the builder permit.

Notice to the RBS of the subsequent engagement of a builder

 Where a RBP or an insured architect is engaged as the builder after a building permit has been issued, the owner may provide notice to the RBS.  Notice must include specific details.

Change of builder on a building permit (s25AC)

 A RBS may change the builder named on a building permit if satisfied that the builder complies.

RBS to notify Authority and relevant council of certain information (s25AD)

 A RBS must give written notice to the VBA and relevant council of a prescribed event, supplying the prescribed information within the prescribed period.

Suspension of a building permit (s25AE)

 Circumstances causing the suspension of a building permit include: o Suspension or cancellation of a builder’s or architect’s registration o The builder has died, is imprisoned or has become a represented person; owner-builder consent has been cancelled; or the builder is no longer engaged.  A building permit has no effect while it is suspended (i.e. building work cannot take place).  Suspension of a building permit ceases when a builder complying with s24A is named. o If a new builder is appointed, the building permit must be amended as per the usual process.

Notification during building work (s33)

 The builder must ensure the RBS is notified without delay upon completion of each mandatory notification stage.  The builder must ensure that work stops immediately, if directed by the RBS.  The RBS must notify the VBA of non-compliance with any of the above requirements.

Happy New Financial Year…

More Building Regulation Amendments!

More amendments occur to the Building Regulations, which are enforced from 1 July 2018.

- There are new, more detailed personal and financial probity requirements.

- Some serious offences fall into the new category of ‘excluded person’.

- While the VBA can weigh up personal and financial probity matters and make a determination, we must deny registration to excluded persons.

- Practitioners will need to advise the VBA if anything affecting their probity status changes during a registration period e.g. convicted of assault, becomes insolvent, etc • Five-year renewals due three months prior to expiry • Practitioners must apply for their five-year renewal at least 3 months before their registration expires.

• If they fail to do so, a late fee will be added to the costs of renewal.

• In some circumstances, late registrations may expire for a period of time • A photo for ID cards will be required - ID cards can be used as evidence of registration for building inspectors/surveyors and on-site audits • For those who opted for company registration, it commences.

The items which are more relevant to those who provide contract administration are summarised in the adjacent table.

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COPYRIGHT RECAP

by Evelyn Morraitis Member queries relating to copyright are, by far the most frequently asked question I receive each month. It seems that BDAV members are concerned about how copyright works and the impact it has on their business, moral rights, what to do if given CAD files and whether or not CAD files should be released. Given the amount of queries I have dealt with, one might seem that I am an expert on the topic.

However, while no copyright scenario is ‘black and white’ nor will have the same outcome, there is a solution for all situations. Copyright really isn’t that daunting once you get the hang of it! Therefore, I will provide some examples that I have come across along the way that may assist you, as well as some facts relating to the subject.

FA C T S • Generally speaking, copyright will sit with the designer.

• If an employee has been asked to create a design, the copyright then sits with the employer (unless stipulated otherwise).

• Signed agreements assigning copyright to a third party take precedence over the Copyright Act. • The client does not own the copyright if they did not produce the drawings (unless stipulated otherwise).

• Furthermore, while clients may pay you for works and drawings, copyright is not assigned to the client once the drawings are complete or payment is made (unless stipulated otherwise).

• Copyright sits with the author until 70 years after their death; once expired it then becomes public domain.

• Where the author is unknown, copyright continues to subsist until the end of 70 years after the year in which the work was first published.

• When someone dies who owns copyright, the copyright automatically falls onto their spouse or children.

• © symbol does not need to be included in drawings in order for copyright to apply.

• You require written permission from the author to alter any existing drawings.

• In the event in which reproduction must occur, infringement will occur if permission has not been granted or if a substantial part of the project is reproduced (substantial is defined as important, distinctive or essential to the original work).

• If you believe someone has infringed your work, you should seek legal advice immediately. Legal action must be taken within six years of the date of infringement.

• CAD files should not be released, as works may be altered.

• By giving someone permission to use your plans does not mean you lose copyright; you must have a written and signed agreement in place to transfer ownership of copyright.

• Moral Rights are separate from copyright; for example, an employer may own the copyright for the works produced by their employee, however it is the employee who owns the moral rights.

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• Generally speaking, under a government tender or competition, copyright is owned by government and Moral Rights is with you.

There are some measures that can be taken to protect your copyright and moral rights: • Keep records of all projects; • Utilise the copyright notice symbol ©; • Consider acting on any infringements; • Do not give out CAD files.

If you need to give permission to someone to use your drawings (or vice versa) or are assigning copyright to someone else (or vice versa) any wording may be used. However, permission should always be given in writing and needs to be signed.

What happens when a company goes into liquidation or when you do not know who produced the works and you need to make alterations to the drawings?

The same rules apply. If you need to amend or alter someone else’s drawings, you must receive written permission from the original author. If you: 1. do not know who the original author was, or 2. are having difficulties contacting the company, and 3. you choose to accept the project and are wanting to make amendments to the original design, then you must make a reasonable amount of enquiries. This is generally a total requirement of six weeks and would require you (or your client) to place advertisements in newspapers, online and various other communicating channels in attempts to make contact with them.

All communication attempts should be documented. There are no legalities surrounding the determination of the nature of reasonable amount of enquiries.

For those of you who are using the BDAV Engagement Agreement, the contract covers the designer in matters related to copyright and moral rights (see Part 5, point 13). Those who are not utilising the BDAV Engagement Agreement can purchase a reusable copy from the BDAV webshop after logging in to the Members Portal at https://www.bdav.org.au/shop.

Those who are clients of Webber Insurance receive the BDAV Engagement Agreement at no cost.

You can always contact your insurance provider, your lawyer or the Australian Copyright Council for more information. Alternatively, the BDAV has produced several Management Notes in regard to Copyright and Moral Rights. To access these, please log in to the ‘Members Portal’ on the BDAV website, click on BDAV Practice Notes;     

PN006-2015: Copyright MN005-2012: Use and release of CAD files MN006-2012: CAD files Deed of Release PN001-2015: Moral Rights PN002-2015: Moral Rights and Owner’s Obligation

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Planning Topics

PLANNING TIDBITS

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

HIDDEN CONTROLS

Both State and Local planning policy can have significant influence on the outcome of a planning permit application, even in circumstances where the relevant planning permit triggers under the zones, overlays or Particular Provisions do not bring such issues to the attention of applicants. These hidden controls add frustrating elements of uncertainty into the planning system that often catch applicants and Councils unawares.

Last month we reported on Planning Scheme Amendment VC140 which introduced bushfire policy changes into the Victorian Planning Provisions. Among other things, VC140 introduced new information and design requirements which apply to planning permit applications, even if the subject site is not affected by a Bushfire Management Overlay.

The flood policy in the State Planning Policy Framework operates in a similar hidden fashion and can have a significant bearing on the outcome of planning permit applications, even on land not affected by flooding related overlays.

The Council recommended refusal of the permit application on grounds relating to flooding and drainage.

Clause 13.02-1 of the State Planning Policy Framework, titled Floodplain Management includes the objective of: To assist the protection of: • Life, property and community infrastructure from flood hazard.

• The natural flood carrying capacity of rivers, streams and floodways.

• The flood storage function of floodplains and waterways.

• Floodplain areas of environmental significance or of importance to river health.

The policy includes strategies and policy guidelines to achieve these objectives, including (inter alia): Avoid intensifying the impacts of flooding through inappropriately located uses and developments.

In both instances, permit applicants are required to be aware of the potential significant impact the VPPs can have on their applications, despite no relevant Overlay or other controls being present on the DELWP Property Planning Report.

Clause 14.02-1 of the State Planning Policy Network, titled Catchment planning and management includes:

A recent decision of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) illustrates the perils of these hidden controls. In Monahan v Strathbogie SC [2018] VCAT 921 the permit applicant sought the subdivision of land into 5 lots, in the General Residential Zone (GRZ).

No planning overlays affect the site. A basic Property Report and Planning Property Report raises no significant issues. The site is located within the established urban context of a small township, surrounded by dwellings and within 150m of the town centre.

To assist the protection and, where possible, restoration of catchments, waterways, water bodies, groundwater, and the marine environment.

As a result of public notification of the application, the local catchment management authority (CMA) lodged an objection to the application, on the basis that the land was part of a depression they had designated as a waterway under the Water Act 1989.

The CMA submitted that in times of even moderate flood, the waterway would act as a regional flood conveyance channel and the development of the land would negatively impact on the wider drainage and water conveyance within the area.

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Objective

Strategies include (inter alia): Retain natural drainage corridors with vegetated buffer zones at least 30m wide along each side of a waterway to maintain the natural drainage function, stream habitat and wildlife corridors and landscape values, to minimise erosion of stream banks and verges and to reduce polluted surface runoff from adjacent land uses.

Undertake measures to minimise the quantity and retard the flow of stormwater runoff from developed areas.

Ensure planning is coordinated with the activities of catchment management authorities.

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32

PLANNING TIDBITS

These tidbits are part of the regular contribution made by Clause:1 Planning to Intersect. For more information visit www.clause1.com.au

The policy guidelines require the consideration of (inter alia): • Any relevant regional river health program, river and wetland restoration plans or waterway and wetland management works programs approved by a catchment management authority.

• Any regional catchment strategies approved under the Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 and any associated implementation plan or strategy including any regional river health and wetland strategies.

We also note Clause 65 of the Planning Scheme, which includes general decision guidelines which include, for subdivision: • The effect of development on the use or development of other land which has a common means of drainage.

In the Monahan case, the CMA had been finalising extensive flood modelling studies, at the same time as the subdivision proposal was being processed by Council. One intent of the modelling was to establish appropriate flood levels to translate into a Floodway Zone, Special Building Overlay or Land Subject to Inundation Overlay, which would then inform land owners and permit applicants of such issues.

In Monahan, while the Tribunal found that planning policy provided support for an increase in housing density at the subject site and no overlay controls raised potential inundation issues, other policy weighed heavily against the proposal, noting: The lack of such controls however does not overcome the fact that the policy context ….. clearly identifies the importance of dealing with flooding and drainage issues before land is developed. In the face of such policy it would be inappropriate to set aside the issues and facts that the subject land is subject to a significant

flood risk and its development would impact on the local and wider flood drainage and conveyance capacity within Nagambie.

In summary, the Tribunal believed the application to be premature, and would be until a town-wide response was prepared, noting: ….what [the applicant’s] position fails to acknowledge is the critical role that the designated waterway that passes through his property may have in developing such a response. To allow development of this land given this situation could well prejudice the orderly development of a future town-wide response to these projected change in flood hazards.

Applicants should be aware that in the absence of planning controls or mapping alerting owners to the potential of flooding - State Policies and other more hidden provisions can form significant additional layers of complexity and uncertainty.

EXISTING USE RIGHTS BUT NOT AN EXISTING BUILDING

In a recent VCAT proceeding, O’Callaghan v Boroondara CC [2018] 598, the Tribunal was forced to contemplate the question of whether a permit was triggered under the Neighbourhood Residential Zone (NRZ) for an extension to an existing Medical Centre. .

Continued page 34....

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

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PLANNING TIDBITS

The Medical Centre had been in operation for more than 30 years. All parties to the proceedings agreed that the Medical Centre had acquired existing use rights pursuant to Clause 63 of the Victorian Planning Provisions. However, despite enjoying existing use rights the provisions contained within the Table of Uses, at Clause 32.09–2 of the NRZ, where placed under the spotlight.

Under the NRZ; uses contained within Section 1 of the Table of Uses do not trigger a planning permit for buildings and works. The Table of Uses specifies that a Medical Centre is a Section 1 use if the following conditions are met: i.

The gross floor area of all buildings must not exceed 250 square metres; ii. Must be located in an existing building; iii. The site must adjoin, or have access to, a road in a Road Zone; iv. Must not require a permit under clause 52.06- 3;

It was generally agreed by all parties that three of the four conditions, above, were met by both the existing conditions onsite and the proposal. The contentious question was; is the use (Medical Centre) located in an ‘existing building’? If it could be successfully argued that the use was located in an existing building – then it could be held that no planning permit was required/triggered under the NRZ for the buildings and works.

There is no doubt that the ‘existing’ use/medical centre was located in an existing building – but what about the proposal?

The permit applicant argued that the use was in an existing building and that the small amount of works, including a small increase in footprint, did not constitute a new or different building.

Council conceded that the increased floor area proposed was small, however, they argued that the change to the building envelope meant that the use/Medical Centre was no longer located in an ‘existing’ building. Therefore, it was Council’s position that the use was a Section 2 use and that a planning permit was triggered by the proposed buildings and works under the NRZ. In concluding that the use was not located in an ‘existing building’ and that a permit was required under the NRZ, the Tribunal noted: 79. The applicant’s approach of allowing small changes to be considered as part of the existing building is confusing and subjective. What amount of new built form transforms a dwelling thereby requiring planning permission? I think the correct approach is to regard any external change as no longer being the existing building and therefore subject to a planning assessment. I consider that this approach is consistent with clause 32.09-5 whereby planning approval is required to extend a dwelling on a lot of a specified size. Under this clause any additions require planning approval.

It does not exempt a small addition (whatever that might be) because it is minor while a larger addition requires a permit.

Having concluded that a permit was triggered under the NRZ the Tribunal went on to approve the proposed additions to the Medical Centre. But this case does once again highlight the complexity of interpreting planning provisions.

To contact Clause:1 Planning, go to www.clause1.com.au or phone (03) 9370 9599

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TPA Topics

N AT H E R S U P D AT E

The following appeared in the sixth edition of NatHERS Star issued late last month to accredited Thermal Performance Assessors: U P D AT E O N W I N D O W S

• New approaches for glazed corridors, basement carparks

in Class 2 buildings and double height voids • Limestone added to the materials database • Improvements to edge batt modelling

The NatHERS Administrator is aware many assessors are frustrated with the current situation regarding windows and have been actively working on improvements to address these concerns.

One of the complaints we hear regularly is that the custom windows library is not up-to-date and the window an assessor is looking for is not in the library. This has been caused by the process involved with transferring data from the Window Energy Rating Scheme (WERS) database to the Australian Fenestration Rating Council (AFRC) database (the database used by NatHERS software tools) being very time consuming to transfer. A diagram showing the process involved for custom windows can be viewed here on the NatHERS website.

• Updated waffle pod values to represent their true performance

Guidance on how to use the new zones is currently being developed.

These updates will be accompanied by an updated Technical Note and an updated NatHERS Universal Certificate (which is also being updated based on the recent review that is available here).

An updated software accreditation protocol is also being developed to ensure these updates are rolled out uniformly to all tools.

WA C L I M AT E Z O N E S A N D I N T E R A C T I V E M A P U P D AT E S

To resolve this issue, the NatHERS Administrator has been working with the AFRC and CSIRO to overcome the technical issues to data transfer and establish processes that make the data transfer faster and easier for the AFRC to undertake. Recent improvements have made the process twice as fast. The AFRC anticipate the custom window library will be updated in August and we expect these AFRC updates to be incorporated in all NatHERS software tools in November as per the developers’ regular update schedule. The NatHERS Administrator is also working with software tool providers to streamline the way windows libraries are updated in each of the tools.

Another complaint we receive is about the lack of clear guidance of substitution rules for custom windows. Resolving this issue is complicated, as any new rules need to be carefully investigated to ensure they are technically implementable, do not place unnecessary burden on stakeholders and any potential rating impacts are identified. As the majority of NatHERS ratings are done for regulatory purposes, changes that could have regulatory impacts also need to be supported by all states and territories. With all this considered, the NatHERS Administrator will be briefing the NatHERS Steering Committee this month about options for new substitution rules and looks forward to implementing the preferred option shortly.

Recognising windows are a source of frustration with assessors, the NatHERS Administrator has prioritised working on these issues in order to achieve the best possible solutions.

The NatHERS interactive climate zone map is a useful visual representation of the 69 NatHERS climate zones and can be accessed online from the NatHERS website. Work was recently undertaken to update the map in order to ensure it aligns with NatHERS software tools. Unfortunately these updates took longer than expected and the interactive climate zone map was unavailable while the updates took place.

The improved NatHERS interactive climate zone map is now once again accessible online, however as noted in the NatHERS Technical Note v1.2 clause 4.5.4 ‘the NatHERS online Climate Zone map is for assessor reference only and the software selection of climate zone has preference.’ Please continue to use the climate zones as provided in the NatHERS software tools.

The interactive climate zone map can be accessed from the climate zone page of the NatHERS website.

At the same time as updating the interactive climate zone map, work was conducted to align the Western Australia (WA) postcode to climate zone information in NatHERS software tools with the Technical Requirements and climate zone variations outlined by the WA Government. NatHERS accredited software tools will be rolling out the WA changes shortly.

N AT H E R S A S S E S S O R H A N D B O O K

C H E N AT H U P D AT E S F O R 2 0 1 9

In line with the 2019 update to the National Construction Code (NCC) there are a number of updates that are planned for the Chenath engine, which improve accuracy of ratings and solve some long-lasting issues with the software. These include:

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The NatHERS Handbook is being developed by the NatHERS Administrator in conjunction with industry experts. It is designed to help assessors navigate the NatHERS assessment process by describing how assessments should be conducted, including the mandatory and recommended steps of the process.

The Handbook will present information to assist assessors, regardless of which assessment tool software is used.

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N AT H E R S U P D AT E

The production of the NatHERS Handbook is well underway. Graphic design of about half the handbook is currently taking place and these chapters will soon be available for their first round of review.

On 27 April 2018 the Building Ministers Forum announced that the ABCB 2018-19 work plan will include the development of energy efficiency measures for residential buildings.

The Handbook will be divided into chapters based on building and environmental elements, and assessment tool functions:

The Trajectory for Low Energy Homes forms part of Measure 31 of the COAG Energy Council’s National Energy Productivity Plan 2015-2030 (NEPP). The NEPP provides a framework and an initial economy-wide work plan designed to accelerate action to deliver a 40% improvement in Australia’s energy productivity by 2030.

Chapter 1. Before you start Chapter 2. Data entry Chapter 3. Climate, terrain and exposure Chapter 4. Zoning Chapter 5. Floors Chapter 6. Walls Chapter 7. Windows and doors Chapter 8. Ceilings and roofs Chapter 9. Shading and eaves Chapter 10. Finalising the assessment S P L I T H E AT I N G A N D C O O L I N G L O A D S F O R N C C 2 0 1 9

In addition to the above Chenath updates, you may be aware the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) recently sought feedback on changes to the NCC 2019 that would set maximum heating and cooling load limits for the NatHERS pathway in the NCC. The goal of setting maximum heating and cooling load limits is to improve the performance of new homes in Australia. The NatHERS Administrator is currently working through the implementation of this change and advice on any changes to assessments will be provided to assessors before changes become live. For more information about the work already undertaken on split heating and cooling load limits, have a look at the ABCB report.

Stage 1 and 2 of the Trajectory involved a research project in collaboration with AECOM, which considered a ‘whole of house’ approach to achieving net zero energy/carbon buildings for new and existing dwellings. The research project analysed existing residential building typologies (built form, appliances and energy use) and new residential building stocks in each jurisdiction, using modelling by the CSIRO developed AusZEH software. This work found that zero energy/carbon detached homes are cost effective to build today, while further consideration is needed on cost effectively lowering apartment energy usage.

Stage 3 of the Trajectory is now using this analysis to inform more detailed policy development and cost benefit analysis, to develop a trajectory for future residential building energy efficiency reforms, including potentially through the NCC. A Stakeholder Reference Group (SRG), with over 170 participants, has been established to inform the Trajectory. The SRG has met regularly since December 2017 via teleconferences and workshops in Canberra, Sydney and Melbourne. The next SRG workshops will be held in July.

If you would like to be involved in a workshop and/or be part of the discussions, please email NEPPSecretariat@environment.gov.au

IN OTHER NEWS A P P L I A N C E E N E R G Y R AT I N G C A L C U L AT O R

T R A J E C TO RY F O R LO W E N E R G Y H O M E S A N D N CC 2022

In late 2018 the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Energy Council will consider a trajectory for low energy homes, including potential energy efficiency changes for the 2022 update of the NCC. The Trajectory is a collaborative project of the Commonwealth, State and Territory Governments.

Should the COAG Energy Council agree to NCC changes, the Building Ministers Forum (BMF) will be asked to task the ABCB with implementing potential changes through its NCC 2022 update process, including conducting a Regulatory Impact Statement (RIS).

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The Energy Rating Calculator allows you to compare the energy efficiency of household appliances such as fridges, washing machines, dishwashers, air conditioners, televisions and dryers. The calculator converts the information shown on an appliance’s Energy Rating Label into dollars, so you know how much it will cost to run before you buy it. Check out this short video to see how simple it is to use.

The Energy Rating Calculator is available here: www.energyrating.gov.au/calculator.

T P A T opics

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A dated 1920s Californian Bungalow, located in Glen Iris, Victoria, has been transformed into a Nordic inspired, blush-toned wonderland, in five short months. The norsuHOME, built by Nat from norsu Interiors and her husband Dan, is a family home that exudes visual design and practicality, whilst meeting the needs of a young family.

When it comes to lighting plans and design, Nat from norsu worked closely with Gerard Lighting to find the perfect balance between architectural design and practical application for family living.

“Lighting shouldn’t be seen as just a mere necessity; instead it’s an important design process in achieving the overall mood and feeling of a home,” says Nat. “Gerard Lighting’s extensive range and their expert advice enabled us to create a carefully thought out lighting plan that met all of our objectives,” continues Nat. Starting with interior lighting, it’s important to create a signature statement about your individual style with a carefully curated range of feature lighting. The home features Pierlite Litelux Opticolour LED Downlights, which have the ability to change colour temperature when dimmed and Pierlite Astara Real Ambient Sunset Dim LED Downlights, allowing the user to “colour shift” the light output for a balance between visual comfort and ambience.

Today’s modern technology now allows for smart home connectivity – making life easier with lighting control solutions.

Being able to operate lighting by remote control helps to create a home that is more energy efficient, secure and satisfying.

the switches knowing we can quickly identify the right light the first time and it also helps the little ones,” continues Nat. Gerard Lighting also made invaluable recommendations such as the Diginet Smart Scan Sensor MKII to control LED strip lighting in the bathroom and laundry, “Ensuring a safe passage for the children during the night,” says Nat. Having a love for the outdoors and alfresco dining, Nat wanted feature lighting around the exterior of their home. Gerard Lighting suggested its Crompton KALI Adjustable and Diablo LED Wall Lights due to their minimalist design, along with the directional nature that highlights the surrounding landscaped greenery.

“A big lesson learnt was to never underestimate the importance of planning your lighting from the beginning. Working with Gerard Lighting meant that we could select lighting for both internal and external from the one supplier, allowing much needed simplicity when renovating,” explains Nat. Nat explains that the norsuHOME has exceeded its expectations in its desired look and design. Not only does it represent the Scandinavian inspired norsu brand, but it also consists of practical design solutions, creative choices and functionality for their family.

For more information, visit www.gerardlighting.com.au

Offering state-of the-art simplicity, Gerard Lighting suggested the Diginet Sitara Lighting Control system for the norsuHOME. The homeowners can personalise the way they control their lighting via their smartphone or tablet, whether it be setting different lighting levels in a range of rooms, choosing lighting moods or having lights turn on to simulate occupancy whilst they’re away.

“We have two young children and having the ability and luxury to turn lights on and off remotely were extremely appealing to us. Our children are still at the age where they are at times frightened by the dark, so the Diginet Sitara wireless feature allows us to control the dimming of their lights from the comfort of our sofa,” says Nat. “We can also utilise the timer feature to ensure we’re being sustainably conscious once they’re asleep. Being able to turn on the lights at night wirelessly before entering the home ensures we always feel safe. Additionally, we love the colour coding of

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C S R G Y P R O C K S U P P O R T S A G E D C A R E FA C I L I T Y

With Australia’s population ageing, there is significant building activity in the aged care sector, involving renovations or new, purpose-built projects. The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare states that in 2016, 15 per cent of Australians (3.7 million) were aged 65 and over, and by 2056 this number is expected to grow to 22 per cent (8.7 million).1 At some point, these seniors will likely need somewhere to live and be looked after in either aged care or seniors living accommodation.

When building an aged care facility, there are important elements and guidelines to consider. The overall goal should be to create a healthy environment that promotes safety and mobility, while catering to specific needs or disabilities. The Building Code of Australia (BCA) has certain classifications and regulations when it comes to aged care requirements – fire resistance, acoustic transmission and absorption, structural integrity, energy efficiency and wet areas to ensure spaces are safe and liveable. Over and above these regulations, designers and architects need to consider how to create the most comfortable and personalised environment to offer residents the best quality of life.

Providing modern aged care, Kithbrooke Park Retirement Village in Torquay, Victoria, is the suburb’s new 128-bed aged care facility. The residence has the appealing attributes of a much larger home, and has been tailored to suit individual lifestyles – representing a new era in retirement living.

CSR Gyprock along with MOC Developments and Molloys Plastering, provided the project with several ceiling and wall system solutions, which helped achieve compliance as well as providing high levels of performance. As the BCA contains specific acoustic provisions, heavy consideration was given to avoid noise entering the facility or being transferred within the building.

Gyprock Soundchek was also specified for the walls due to its ability to reduce sound transmission and level of impact resistance. “Using Soundchek and Rigitone Galaxy throughout helped to provide effective impact noise insulation, creating the ultimate acoustics solution system for a comfortable living environment,” says Brad Molloy, Molloys Plastering.

All bathrooms of the village were lined with Gyprock Aquachek plasterboard, a moisture resistant wall and ceiling lining suitable for wet areas. “Wet area walls within aged care buildings must be designed to avoid system failures or increased maintenance costs, so Aquachek was a great option due to its extremely low water absorption characteristics. It also provides an excellent, stable substrate for ceramic tiles,” says Mr Molloy.

Throughout the rest of the village, Gyprock fire-rated wall and ceiling systems, featuring Gyprock Fyrchek plasterboard were specified in the kitchens and utility areas to meet fire resistant standards. Gyprock Plus plasterboard was used as the core product for bedrooms, common areas and remaining walls, whilst Gyprock premium quality base and topping compounds were used throughout.

“Partnering with Gyprock meant that we could work with the ‘Gyprock Aged Care Design Guide’ to meet compliance standards.

We also had access to their network of stores – allowing us to be in close proximity of the Gyprock Trade store in Geelong, Victoria, ensuring availability of product and timely deliveries,” explains Mr Molloy.

CSR Gyprock pride themselves on partnering to deliver expert advice at design and installation stages, supported by a national network of Account Managers and Gyprock Trade stores, and complimented by their DesignLINK technical support service.

MOC Developments specified Gyprock’s Rigitone Galaxy for the ceilings due to its acoustic properties and seamless design finish.

Rigitone Galaxy is part of Gyprock’s perforated plasterboard range, which can be used where a level of sound attenuation and aesthetic appeal is required. With four patterns in the Rigitone range, the solution provides acoustic performance with design freedom.

The panel perforations of Rigitone Galaxy, together with the board’s acoustic fabric lining, plus the addition of insulation, reduces echo and noise reverberation to create a more comfortable environment.

Additionally, Rigitone Galaxy has the added benefit of Activ’Air, an innovative, VOC reducing technology that improves indoor air quality for a healthy environment. Activ’Air converts formaldehyde into non-harmful inert compounds that are permanently locked in the board and cannot be released back into the air. https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/older-people/ older-australia-at-a-glance/contents/summary

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N E S T AT T H E H I L L : D O N C A S T E R ’ S S T Y L I S H N E W A D D I T I O N

The flawlessly finished and highly sophisticated ‘Nest at the Hill’ development is perched neatly on top of Doncaster Hill, in Victoria’s eastern suburbs. Developed

by K2LD Architects in conjunction with Crema Constructions, the strong structural presence is highlighted by the use of 1000sqm of Fairview’ terracotta tile system, Vitracade in ‘Salmon’, which flows from top-to-bottom creating a warm trail of natural clay tiles against the shimmering glass façade.

With sweeping views of Melbourne CDB and the Dandenong Ranges, the mid-rise building consists of 12 floors and over 250 living spaces. The strength of the Vitracade tiles, as well as the simple fixing system, made this an optimal choice for the elegant design, while also providing warmth and a barrier against outside noise.

Combined with 300sqm of our Vitracore G2, these two façade solutions add a nice finishing touch to the exterior providing natural glamour that will last for decades to come. Installed by Collmill, Vitracade is manufactured from natural clay and then fired in a kiln at over 1000oC, resulting in an entirely non-combustible tile that is tested and proven to AS1530.1. Similarly, Vitracore is Fairview’s leading deemed-to-satisfy non-combustible cladding panel, tested to AS1530.1.

Vitracade, manufactured by Fairview, is a natural clay architectural terracotta panel and tile solution that is weather resistant and highly durable. It offers additional warmth and acts as a sound barrier to external noise. Vitracade is made of only natural raw materials making it UV and weather-resistant.

The tile colours will not fade-out in the sun, even after 50 years the façade will look as new. For more information, go to www.fv.com.au.

N E S T AT T H E H I L L

Project: Nest at the Hill Location: 642-654 Doncaster Road, Doncaster, Victoria Architect: K2LD Architects Builder: Crema Construction Installer: Collmill Group Product: 1000sqm Vitracade and 300sqm of Vitracore G2 Colour: Salmon

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Job Market

JOB MARKET

BUILDING DESIGNER REQUIRED

Latrobe Valley Drafting, based in Moe, Gippsland, eastern Victoria, is seeking an experience designer to join our team. This small family-run business is seeking the right person to blend with our crew. Must be experienced in using AutoCad software, have great communication skills to liaise with the team and clients, manage projects and see the documentation through to completion.

Applicants must have the ability to apply sound knowledge of the relevant Regulations and Australian Standards, with planning scheme knowledge being beneficial.

Hours and appointment are flexible for the right applicant. Please apply in writing to Sue Abbott at admin@lvdrafting.com.au.

FULL-TIME DRAFTSPERSON REQUIRED

Blueprint Designers & Consultants, based in Clayton, is a successful business which has been running for over 15 years. It’s a growing company that is seeking a self-confident, motivated draftsperson who will be responsible for works such as siting projects to completing full sets of construction drawings. They will be leasing with clients, councils and project managers daily. Candidates must have AutoCad experience, great communication skills and at least 2 years’ experience in field. Please email your resume to admin@ blueprint-design.com.au.

DRAFTSPERSON/DESIGNER REQUIRED

Established building design office in Carlton seeks a draftsperson/designer with a minimum of 4 years’ local experience.

Must have relevant local qualifications and competency in all relevant codes, with sound construction documentation skills, exceptional organisational and time management skills, and great attention to detail. The right person will be creative and passionate, have the ability to confidently liaise with clients and consultants, manage and organise projects, and see the documentation through to completion. An all-rounder with the ability to work unsupervised at times on town planning and working drawings documentation and general office tasks. Please send your CV to info@369design.com.au.

BUILDING DESIGNER/ARCHITECT – PERMANENT POSITION

Small architectural office based in Hawthorn East seeks a talented AutoCAD documenter. Candidates must be motivated and able to work autonomously, as well as part of a team. The role will include working on all stages of a project including concept design, design development and construction documentation and preparing accurate detailed and fit-for-purpose documentation. The successful candidate will have a minimum 5 years’ local experience across commercial and residential; proficient knowledge in AutoCAD and 3D software; an understanding of planning and building codes, including access requirements; exceptional organisational and time management skills; great attention to detail to ensure documentation is produced to the highest of standards; the confidence to strive to deliver professional and competent working drawings for team members, clients and consultants. We offer a friendly working environment and an opportunity to work with a loyal client base on a number of projects within the commercial areas. If you believe you meet the above criteria and would like to join our team, please forward your resume and covering letter to sb@vodabs.com.au.

C O L L A B O R AT I O N W I T H REGISTERED DRAFTSPERSON

Design and Construction company specialising in very small homes seeks expressions of interest for a collaboration agreement with a registered draftsperson who is experienced and competent in ArchiCad. Must be enthused and passionate about small, sustainable and affordable housing.

Email sally@smallchangedesign.com.au.

include AutoCAD and Revit. I am available in afternoons and weekends. Please contact me to explore any opportunity at anil.sharma78@ outlook.com.

E X P E R I E N C E N AT H E R S A S S E S S O R REQUIRED

PassivEnergy, a sustainable building consultant firm based in Chadstone, seeks an experienced NatHERS Assessor for fulltime work. Candidates must have CertIV in NatHERS, minimum 1-2 years’ experience with FirstRate5, experience with complex modelling situations and the ability to model accurately and efficiently, and have good knowledge of solar passive design principles.

Experience with BESS and STORM scorecard systems (desirable). Please send your cover letter and CV to hireme@passivenergy.com. au.

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

BUILDING DESIGNER SEEKS WORK EXPERIENCE/INTERNSHIP/TRAINEE

Do you need an extra hand to finish building design projects? I am looking for a design or architectural firm involved in residential design and construction in the northwest side of Melbourne or in the CBD for work experience / an internship or as a trainee.

My credentials include: final semester of Advance Diploma in Building Design - Architectural; and second year of Diploma of Building Construction - Building. My design skills

Phone 03 9349 1055 www/bloomfieldtremayne.com.au

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S Y N E R G Y, C S I R O , W I N S F O U R A W A R D S

The Synergy building at the CSIRO Black Mountain campus has just won four awards in both the Australian Institute of Architects ACT Chapter Awards and the INDESIGNLIVE Asia Pacific INDE.Awards.

At the AIA ACT Chapter awards, Synergy received two prestigious-named awards – The Romaldo Guirgola Award for Public Architecture and The Derek Wrigley Award for Sustainable Architecture – as well as an award for Interior Architecture.

Synergy was also the winner of the Work Space award at the 2018 Asia Pacific INDE.Awards where it was noted that “the science sector brings a new vision to the workplace revolution”.

According to the ACT jury for Public Architecture, “Synergy is architecturally finessed. Its clear palette, vibrant light, high level of interior amenity and excellent ESD credentials (that are embedded in and exploited for architectural beauty) yields a workplace that seeks to restore the spirits and wellbeing of a revered organisation.”

The Sustainability jury commented that “Every opening to the façade is thoughtfully considered’ whether to permit the workspace to be fully naturally ventilated; to direct views to Canberra icons; or encourage incidental encounter and collaboration. The sheer amount of natural light that is provided to the laboratory spaces, despite their strict environmental requirements, is incredibly refreshing and well executed.”

The INDE.Award for The Work Space recognises a working environment that meets the needs of people without compromising on social, cultural or functional aspects.

“The reinvention of the workplace is the central design tenet, merging a place of scientific research with the contemplative necessity of write-up and reflection,” said the INDE. Awards jury.

Julian Ashton, Principal of BVN noted that “For an organisation that is established and well-respected internationally, our design intent was driven by the desire to give CSIRO a uniquely Australian-centric space.”

[Image: John Gollings]

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For more information on BDAV News, Events, CPD Courses and Awards, visit news.bdav.org.au.

A S S O C AT I O N O F V I C T O R I A

PO Box 174 Carlton South Vic 3053

PHONE

(03) 9416 0227

WEB

www.bdav.org.au

EMAIL

info@bdav.org.au

EDITOR

Giselle Grynbaum

BUILDING DESIGNERS

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BDAV membership is the ultimate designers ‘must have’.

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