- Residents will be enabled to live a more sustainable lifestyle
- Construction is set to commence in April
- The precinct will rely purely on sustainable energy sources
New South Wales Developer Mulpha is set to deliver a zero-carbon master planned community in The Hills of Sydney, designed for the environmentally conscious buyer.
The $1 billion retail and residential precinct, Norwest Quarter, employs sustainable design principles from conception and construction through to long-term performance.
Mulpha Head of Developments, Tim Spencer, believes the residences will attract those who want to be part of a community, aiming for a better future.
“Our goal in developing Norwest Quarter has been to truly deliver a zero carbon precinct, renewably powered with a low environmental impact.”
Tim Spencer, Mulpha Head of Developments
Mr Spencer told The Property Tribune that the precinct will supply all energy from renewable sources, such as rooftop solar panels.
“Building sustainable communities requires identifying what truly makes a community healthy and environmentally, economically and emotionally sustainable – our mission has been to design this into all aspects of the built-form, landscaping, functionality and community life,” Mr Spencer said.
This precinct will be a timely addition to the market with 86% of Australians saying they are actively taking steps to reduce their impact on the planet according to a recent survey from Finder.
Each apartment in the community will consume two thirds less energy than a typical code compliant apartment, according to Mulpha. This has promising cost-saving benefits.
Sustainable Design
The residences at Norwest Quarter offer impressive green features which reveal what the development of the future might look like.
To live up to the ambitious zero carbon ethos, Mulpha has enlisted the help of environmental sustainability firm Finding Infinity, along with leading architects Bates Smart and Smart Design Studio, landscape architects Aspect Studios, and urban designers Terroir.
ESD expert Ross Harding from Finding Infinity said extensive work has been undertaken to assess the initiatives and design considerations required for Norwest Quarter to minimise its environmental impact through energy, water and waste.
“We have worked with Mulpha to push environmental boundaries, doing as much as possible to reduce environmental impact for future residents and tenants while still delivering a sound investment for purchasers and reducing their bills.”
Ross Harding, Education for Sustainable Development Expert
Along with rooftop solar panels, sustainable initiatives include electric vehicle charging, and high-performance, centralised air-conditioning, efficient lighting and appliances, induction cooktops, and electric hot water.
The building features smart passive design initiatives to reduce the need for temperature control.
These include the use of light-coloured materials, high-performance glazing and insulation, building orientation and facades that invite winter sun to penetrate whilst blocking summer sun.
The precincts design encompasses a ‘re-wilding’ of the natural landscape, which in turn promotes local flora and fauna. This is intended to contribute to a cooler and healthier environment.
Onsite water will be treated as a precious resource with waste minimising fixtures and fittings throughout the building. Water will be sourced from both rainwater and recycled water.
Sustainable Communities
Residents of the Norwest Quarter will be enabled and empowered to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
This is through infrastructure provision such as on-site organic waste separation and treatment, worm farms and composting.
There are also plans for a ‘share and repair’ centre along with community upcycling market days.
Other initiatives will include communal gardens, car sharing, communal electric BBQs, lobby book libraries, and productive beehives for enhanced pollination.
Mulpha is seeking commercial tenants who share an environmentally conscious ethos.
With construction commencing in April and estimated for completion by the end of 2024, the precinct will offer 864 apartments across nine towers.
Off the plan sales will begin on the next month for a portion of the dwellings.
