Sustainability Report

116 Rokeby has a “Climate Active Carbon Neutral” status (certified by the Australian Government), a Platinum WELL Certification for its base building, and a 5.5 NABERS Energy Rating.

The actual carbon footprint data for 116 Rokeby is not available at this moment. Carbon projections from an ESD (Environmental Sustainability Design) engineer at Arup suggest: “By targeting a 5.5 star NABERS Base Building rating, the development can achieve more than 25 percent energy saving compared to a typical 5 star office building. This translates to ~58MWh/yr compared to a building of similar size.” (Source: NABERS Project Directory January 2024.)

A building management system (BMS) monitors and controls the building’s environmental systems, particularly air quality parameters. By adjusting ventilation based on carbon dioxide levels and occupancy, it ensures the creation of an optimal indoor environment.

The incorporation of greenery within the building’s interior aids in purifying the air and producing oxygen, thereby improving overall air quality.

The tower and podium adapt to the climatic conditions of the site, expressed through the similar proportions, rhythms, materialities, and repetitions in their design. The building’s modern architectural form is strong on its narrower eastern and western facades — these facades combat heat gain with their angled blades while providing views and natural light. A diaphanous, operable double-skin facade, facing north, prioritizes environmental sustainability and innovation. This facade effectively controls heat gain, daylight, glare, and air quality, while naturally ventilating the floor plates.

Light and air are two crucial natural elements of the project. For instance, the punctuations in the podium slabs create a series of light wells that spread light throughout the ground floor spaces.

The design of 116 Rokeby incorporates a passive approach to the building’s massing and articulation. The double-skin facade includes a plenum and delivers a chimney stack effect by releasing warm air through a series of chimneys at the top level; this facade helps to naturally heat and cool the building and provides an abundance of daylight. Energy-efficient lighting, smart controls, photovoltaic panels, a significant degree of landscaping (on the ground floor, podium, and rooftop), and an all-electric building approach, add to the overall comfort and well-being of the building’s users.

Low-toxicity materials were chosen to minimize the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other airborne pollutants. This includes using low-VOC paints, adhesives, and sealants, as well as sustainably sourced materials that do not release harmful chemicals.

A unique spray insulation product, crafted from recycled newspaper, was applied to the floors of the occupied spaces to enhance both thermal and acoustic performance. This sustainable solution not only reduces energy consumption by improving insulation but also repurposes waste materials, which aligns perfectly with the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility.