The dynamic Vivida dormitory in Hawthorn, Australia boasts a beautiful metallic skin that serves as a striking visual element while ensuring that the 194-bed building has superior thermal performance. The skin was a necessary response to a site that had great views but little shade or passive design, and it was approached by
Rothe Lowman as something of an urban art project. Designed as an ideal environment for Swinburne University students, this gorgeous residential tower received a
5 Star First Rate energy accreditation.
In addition to having plenty of daylight and shade as a result of the new metallic skin, which gives the building multiple personalities depending on the angle from which it is viewed, mechanical windows provide ample natural ventilation. The modular stacked rooms are all exactly the same size, and are illuminated at night by energy-efficient lighting technology that reduces the project’s overall carbon footprint.
The Vivida dorms are reasonably student friendly. Located within walking distance of public transportation, the building features very little parking, which is supposed to encourage the use of alternatives, as well as 25 parking spots for bicycles. Although this is definitely a step in the right direction, we feel that more more could have been done to encourage students to leave their cars at home. And finally, rooftop gardens absorb carbon emissions and provide a homely green spot for students to congregate.
+ Rothe Lowman
Via Arch Daily
