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Project completed: 2015
Client: Denmark Env. Centre / Builder: Tectonics Construction Group / Photographer: Nic Duncan
The Denmark Environment Centre is a not-for-profit organisation involved in environmental advocacy and education in the local community. The new building replaced a previous facility that was destroyed by fire and incorporates an existing retail space with a new administrative facility, amenities and flexible rentable spaces.
Glazing at the rear of the retail space offers a visual connection from the new facility to Denmark’s main street. Entering the building, visitors proceed through an environmental ‘learning passage’ out to an external viewing deck, connecting them to the new facility and drawing their eye to the surrounding forest, the Denmark River and beyond – an outdoor focus that’s further reinforced by the centre’s timber and charcoal metal cladding.
The entire building has been designed for optimal sustainability, with no air conditioning needed for heating or cooling, and power provided by a solar energy system. The facility is set back from its northern boundary, allowing for solar heating in winter through generous northern glazing, while in summer the building is kept cool and comfortable by retractable shading and extensive insulation
