Edithvale-Seaford Wetlands Discovery Centre
EDITHVALE VICTORIA, 2011
This educational discovery centre, located adjacent to a Ramsar-listed wetlands, is a flagship ESD project for Melbourne Water - and doubles as a bird hide.
Perched above the once ecologically rich Carrum Carrum Swamp, this building offers an interpretive experience to understand the vital history and workings of this now urban wetland and its role in the water cycle.
Solar panels, heat pumps, floor-grate supply and passive extraction, double glazing, motion-controlled lighting, high insulation, and thermal mass allow the building to approach carbon neutrality. Along with a composting sewage system and internal water storage, it achieves the equivalent of 6 Green Stars.
The Edithvale Seaford Wetlands Discovery Centre received the Australian Institute of Architects Award for Public Architecture in June 2012, the Master Builders Association Award in August 2012, and the Premier’s Design Award in September 2012.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PETER BENNETTS AND DEREK SWALWELL