Wood & Grieve Engineers (WGE) has helped St.George Bank achieve Australia’s first Green Star rating for a bank branch, with the retail tenancy at Barangaroo South achieving a 6 Star Green Star – Interiors v1 rating. The rating represents ‘world leadership’ in sustainable building fitouts.
WGE were engaged as both the sustainability and acoustics consultant for the project that is part of the $6 billion, 22-hectare Barangaroo urban renewal project alongside Sydney Harbour.
The rating was granted by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) for innovation and leadership in sustainable retail fitout. Sustainable initiatives are integral to the entire Barangaroo precinct, which is seeking to be the first climate positive community.
WGE was instrumental in achieving the first 6 Star Green Star certification awarded under the Green Star – Interiors v1 rating tool, which will support St.George Bank as it continues to innovate and drive sustainability in the financial services sector.
Chief Executive Officer of the GBCA, Romilly Madew, says the rating “sends a signal to the financial services sector that sustainability is a strategic business decision.”
“International research has found bank branches designed with sustainability in mind are also better places for customers and staff – and can cut costs, boost productivity, attract and retain employees, and provide a positive brand contact for customers,” Ms Madew says.
Some specific design features of the tenancy include:
- 85% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions through comprehensive energy modelling
- 130% cumulative impact reduction for life cycle assessment (LCA) helping achieve an eTool LCA Medal Platinum rating by:
- Lowing the developments carbon footprint
- Ensuring the design independently recognised as a ‘green design’
- Providing a more sustainable lifestyle
- Live green wall improving indoor air-quality and amenity for employees and customers
The project also achieved a number of Green Start ‘Innovation Challenges’ including social return on investment, social enterprise for affordable housing and community benefits.
WGE’s Sustainability Section Manager and Principal, Nicholas Johnson says the project is an outstanding reflection of the importance of incorporating highly sustainable design principles and socially responsible practices in retail projects.
“We are very proud to help St George Bank achieve the first 6 Star Green Star for interiors and reinforce their reputation for sustainable leadership in the banking sector,” he said.
“Sustainable design principles offer a range of benefits for retail clients including cost savings, reduced environmental footprint, increased customer traffic and sales, as well as improved employee satisfaction and retention.”
