Behind its original 1920s brick façade, the offices of the Australian Performing Rights Association (APRA) are an integrated re-think of a structure from last century. Equipping it to deal with its future in an exemplary manner, the sustainable building is naturally ventilated, daylight optimised and alimented with reused rainwater.
While few structural alterations have been undertaken to the façade, the interior has been significantly reconfigured to equip the building for its new function as an efficient and dynamic centre for the entertainment industry. A void has been knocked through the core of the structure, creating a thermal chimney to enhance air flow. It also allows sight lines across this newly created source of space and light.
Expand ContentCeilings have been stripped of paint and detritus to expose their rustic character, and floors have been raised to accommodate the building’s services including air conditioning, wiring and sprinklers. This raised floor affords great flexibility, leaves the ceiling free of clutter and allows for underfloor mechanical ventilation. This low velocity form of heating and cooling is energy efficient, especially when coupled with automated openable windows.
To further enhance indoor air quality, a natural ventilation mode is enabled when conditions are optimal. The mechanical system either supplies outside air or shuts down, allowing fresh air to be delivered via automated glass louvred windows around the perimeter. The four-storey atrium has its own operable louvres at roof level to create a chimney effect that encourages air movement from the perimeter, through the building, and out at the top of the building. Similarly, this mode can be utilised as a night purge, providing fresh air and ridding the building of excess heat during the cooler night hours.
Breakout areas and on-floor kitchens are central to all floors of the building, fostering a relaxed culture within the office environment. On the rooftop, a boardroom and private dining room allow for executive entertaining while a street-level café is open to members and staff, fostering strong connections within the music industry.
This is a modern office and a place for interaction and meeting, with quiet and solitary work spaces and industry-specific resources. It is moreover, a place to confer, present and entertain, with strong links to the music industry. There is a sense of transparency between internal departments, members, visitors and the public domain, all of which convey a personal sense of APRA’s size, structure and operation.
2009 Winner AIA NSW Chapter Milo Dunphy Award for Sustainability
