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One Central Park, Sydney, Australia

Overview

One Central Park is a mixed-use residential and commercial building complex located in the Chippendale suburb of Sydney, Australia. Completed in 2014, it was designed by French architect Jean Nouvel and Australian architectural firm PTW Architects. The development is renowned for its vertical gardens and innovative sustainable features. 

Design and Features

1. Vertical Gardens:

  • Green Façade: One of the most striking features of One Central Park is its green façade, which includes approximately 50,000 plants covering 1,200 square meters. Designed by botanist and French artist Patrick Blanc, these gardens feature a variety of native and exotic plants that thrive in Sydney's climate.
  • Plant Species: The selection includes 250 different species of plants, including vines, ferns, and flowers. These plants are chosen not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their ability to improve air quality and provide natural insulation.

2. Sustainable Energy Systems:

  • Solar Panels: The building's rooftop and heliostat are equipped with solar panels, generating renewable energy to power common areas and reduce reliance on the grid.
  • Tri-generation Plant: One Central Park uses a tri-generation plant, which provides heating, cooling, and electricity. This system is highly efficient, utilizing natural gas to produce energy and recover waste heat for additional power and thermal needs.

3. Water Management:

  • Rainwater Harvesting: Rainwater is collected and used for irrigation of the green walls and rooftop gardens, as well as for flushing toilets. This reduces the building's demand for potable water.
  • Recycling and Reuse: The development incorporates water recycling systems, which treat and reuse greywater for landscaping and other non-potable uses.

4. Heliostat:

  • Cantilevered Heliostat: A unique feature of One Central Park is its cantilevered heliostat, a set of motorized mirrors that reflect sunlight down into the shaded areas of the building and the park below. This innovative design element ensures that natural light reaches all parts of the complex, enhancing the living environment and reducing the need for artificial lighting.

5. Indoor Environmental Quality:

  • Natural Ventilation: The building design promotes natural ventilation, reducing the need for mechanical cooling and heating. Operable windows and ventilation shafts allow fresh air to circulate throughout the apartments.
  • Indoor Plants: Indoor plants are integrated into the interior design, contributing to improved air quality and creating a healthier living environment.

Environmental Impact

One Central Park has been recognized for its significant contributions to sustainability and urban ecology:

  • Green Building Council of Australia: The project has received a 5-Star Green Star rating from the Green Building Council of Australia, acknowledging its excellence in environmental performance and design.

Awards and Recognition

One Central Park has won numerous awards for its innovative design and sustainability:

  • 2014 LEAF (Leading European Architecture Forum) Awards: Best Sustainable Development.
  • 2014 CTBUH (Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat) Awards: Best Tall Building Worldwide.
  • 2015 International Green Interior Awards: Winner in the Residential category for its innovative green interior design.

Social and Aesthetic Impact

  • Urban Revitalization: The development has played a significant role in the revitalization of the Chippendale area, transforming it into a vibrant, green, and desirable place to live and work.
  • Community Spaces: The design includes public spaces, such as parks and gardens, that enhance community engagement and provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Impact and Influence

One Central Park has set a benchmark for sustainable high-rise developments, demonstrating how urban buildings can integrate green spaces and renewable energy systems to create environmentally responsible and visually stunning architecture. Its success has inspired similar projects worldwide, promoting the integration of nature and sustainability in urban design.

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