South Christchurch Library opened its doors in August 2003.
The building was designed by Architects Warren and Mahoney with sustainable function and the Council's energy efficiency and zero waste policy firmly in mind.
The features of the building include:
- Use of water in the moat around the building to cool and humidify the air entering the building.
- The same water is used in the low water-use plumbing fittings inside.
- All the timber was obtained from sustainable sources.
- Non-toxic materials were used as much as possible, to reduce indoor contaminants and to reduce pollution of the environment in the manufacturing process.
- Substantial use of glass and unpainted roofing reduce the need for paint and future maintenance costs
- Preference was given to re-cycled building materials. The acoustic insulation is made from recycled wool scraps; the cement has a 75 per centrecycled content.
- The gardens surrounding the building include drainage swales and retention ponds to slow storm water run off and to aid in the filtering of pollutants such as petrol and diesel from the car parks before reaching the river.
- The building is heated using a very efficient heat pump that sources heat from the local water supply. The ground source heat pump supplies at least 3.5 kilowattsof heat for everykw of power required to run the machinery.
- Natural air flow is utilised where warm air rises out of the building through high windows, thus drawing fresh air into the building over the water in the moat.
- Passive solar heating is an integral part of the design where the architects allowed for both lowered sun angles in winter and heat absorption by the concrete slab and tiled floor.
- Energy efficient lighting, with light and movement sensors, is used throughout the structure.
The building was awarded recognition from:
- New Zealand Institute of Architects – Supreme Award (May 2004)
- New Zealand Institute of Architects Resene New Zealand awards for Architecture – Colour Award (March 2004)
- New Zealand Institute of Architects Resene New Zealand awards for Architecture – Community and Cultural category (March 2004)
- Property Council of New Zealand Rider Hunt Property Awards 2004 – Merit Award, Education and Art category (March 2004)
- Glasstech Award – Highly Commended, Most creative Use of Glass to Enhance a Project (December 2003).
The benefits of the project
- Using the advantages of the site for eco-friendly strategies.
- Re-use of cement and wool products in the building process.
- Reduction in waste through the Council Zero Waste policy application.
- Reduction in energy use through water-saving technology, passive solar heating, ground source heat pump and energy efficient lighting.
- Reduction in water use through low use plumbing fixtures and using rain water for flushing.
- Increased quality of water run-off by using swales and retention ponds.
Things to consider for your business or home
- Could I make use of passive solar heating by installing shade for summer that allows for winter sun?
- Are there any areas where run off water might be put to better use?
- Could an upgrade in glass technology like double glazing assist in heat retention in the office or at home?
- Are water-saving devices installed on the toilets and taps?
- Is sufficient use made of the garden for shade and protection?
