BDAV News May2017

V O L U M E 2 2 • E D I T I O N 4 • M AY 2 0 1 7

T H E O F F I C I A L M A G A Z I N E O F T H E B U I L D I N G D E S I G N E R S A S S O C I AT I O N O F V I C T O R I A

new Plan Melbourne

Kingspan’s new Somerton Facility 10-Star Case Study and much more!

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BDAV NEWS

Welcome In this month’s edition, we feature a case study on Paradigm Shift, for which Sustainability House won the 2017 BDAV 10-Star Sustainable Design Challenge. Other design case studies include a sustainable project in Castlemaine by Lifehouse Designs, and a feature on ‘Brighton Meets The Hamptons’. There’s also lots of industry news and most of your regular favourite contributors.

In This Edition....

Cover Story: Sorrento House 1......................................................................................... 4 Special Feature: 10-Star Case Study: Paradigm Shift............................................................................ 34 Industry News: Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria............................................................... 3 Development Victoria Established................................................................................ 17

Enjoy the read!

Winners Announced in Smalll Home BIG LIFE competition......................................... 23

Giselle Grynbaum Editor

James Hardie Systems Purchases RItek Wall Systems.............................................. 23 Reducing Bushfire Risk with Innovative Technology..................................................... 29 Changes to the Domestic Building Contract Regulations............................................ 29

BDAV News

Global First for Melbourne Manufacturing.................................................................... 31

Produced by Giselle Grynbaum for Building Designers Association of Victoria Inc PO Box 174, Carlton South VIC 3053 Web: www.bdav.org.au Phone: (03) 9416 0227 Email: info@bdav.org.au Editor: Giselle Grynbaum

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Tim Adams Todd Pearce Giselle Grynbaum

Lifehouse Designs Successful Sustainable Home...................................................... 33 Brighton Meets The Hamptons................................................................................... 39 VBA News: Five-Year Registration ................................................................................................. 11 Separating Walls on Boundaries.................................................................................. 21 VBA Proactive Inspection Program Update................................................................. 25 Builders Aware in Geelong and the Surf Coast............................................................ 25 VBA Acts after Homeowner Fails to Comply with Building Permit over Pergola............ 28 Planning Topics: Better Aparatments Gazetted........................................................................................ 3 Plan Melbourne............................................................................................................. 7 Planning TidBits from Clause:1 Planning...............................................................12 Better Apartments for Victorians................................................................................... 21

DISCLAIMER

The views expressed in BDAV News are those of the contributors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Building Designers Association of Victoria. Products and services advertised herein are not necessarily endorsed by the BDAV. Whilst every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, neither the BDAV nor the publisher nor any person contributing to this publication shall incur any liability in respect to any information contained herein, nor for any errors or ommissions which may occur in this publication. Contributions are welcome, and should be emailed to the Editor to info@bdav.org.au.

COVER PHOTO Grant Kennedy, We Shoot Buildings

Marketing Tips: Three Reasons Why Your Work Isn’t Getting Published..........................................17 Technology: Todd’s Top Apps.......................................................................................................... 27 Job Market...................................................................................................................... 41

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V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

Better Apartments Gazetted Amendment VC136 appeared in the Government Gazette on 13 April 2017.

This amendment changes the Victoria Planning Provisions (VPP) and all Planning Schemes in Victoria by introducing statewide planning requirements for apartment developments in Victoria.

The Amendment changes the Victoria Planning Provisions (VPP) and all planning schemes in Victoria by: Inserting a new Particular Provision at Clause 58 (Apartment developments) to introduce new requirements for apartment developments of five or more storeys (excluding a basement) in a residential zone and all apartment developments in other zones.

Amending Clause 55 (Two or more dwellings on a lot and residential buildings) to include new requirements for apartment developments.

Deleting Clause 52.35 (Urban context report and design response for residential development of five or more storeys). The content of Clause of 52.35 is translated into Clause 58.01.

Amending clauses 32.04 (Mixed Use Zone), 32.05 (Township Zone), 32.07 (Residential Growth Zone) and 32.08 (General Residential Zone) to:

– Require an application for an apartment development of five or more storeys (excluding a basement) to meet the requirements of Clause 58.

– Update the decision guidelines to require the responsible authority to consider the objectives, standards and decision guidelines of Clause 58 before deciding on an application for an apartment development of five or more storeys (excluding a basement).

– Specify application requirements for an apartment development in the Residential Growth Zone and the General Residential Zone.

– Include transitional provisions for applications lodged before the approval date of this Amendment.

Amending Clause 32.09 (Neighbourhood Residential Zone) to include transitional provisions for applications lodged before the approval date of this Amendment.

Amending clauses 34.01 (Commercial 1 Zone), 37.01 (Special Use Zone), 37.02 (Comprehensive Development Zone), 37.04 (Capital City Zone), 37.05

(Docklands Zone), 37.06 (Priority Development Zone) and 37.08 (Activity Centre Zone) to: – Require an application for an apartment development to meet the requirements of Clause 58.

– Update the decision guidelines to require the responsible authority to consider the objectives, standards and decision guidelines of Clause 58 before deciding on an application for an apartment development.

– Specify application requirements for an apartment development.

– Include transitional provisions for applications lodged before the approval date of this Amendment.

Amending Clause 43.05 (Neighbourhood Character Overlay) to prevent Standards B35 to B49 (inclusive) of Clause 55 from being modified in a schedule to the overlay.

Amending Clause 72 (General Terms) to introduce a definition for the term ‘Apartment’.

For further information, go to www.planning.vic.gov.au.

Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria The Victorian State Government has launched a new agency, Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria (DBDRV). DBDRV provides compulsory mediation for disputes between owners and builders, with the intent to divert these cases from reaching the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).

The free service covers disputes arising from works within the last 10 years that have never been to VCAT, and has the power to issue binding orders.

DBDRV is an independent government agency that provides free services to help resolve domestic (residential) building disputes. It is a business unit of the Department of Justice and Regulation and has been established under the Domestic Building Contracts Act 1995.

This service was established to resolve building disputes without the cost and time often associated with courts and tribunals.

DBDRV’s services are impartial and available to building owners, builders and, in some circumstances, architects and sub-contractors.

DBDRV focus on conciliation, which involves bringing both parties together to discuss and resolve matters in dispute. We can also appoint qualified expert assessors to conduct building assessments to assist the resolution process.

If conciliation does not resolve the dispute, DBDRV’s Chief Dispute Resolution Officer has the power to issue binding dispute resolution orders and certificates.

DBDRV can help resolve disputes concerning: construction alterations and renovations extensions associated building work such as garages, driveways, swimming pools and spas

demolition; and some types of home repairs.

For further information, go to their website, at https://dbdrv.vic.gov.au/

Have You Been to the BDAV’s News Site?

The ‘go to’ portal for news for the building design profession, featuring all the most informative news stories and tips to assist you in your business.

news.bdav.org.au

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BDAV NEWS

Cover Story

Sorrento House 1 Vibe Design Group won two awards in the BDAV’s 2016 Building Design Awards for their Sorrento House 1 project: Residential Design: New Houses Over $1M construction cost. and Most Innovative Kitchen Design. The project also achieved a commendation in the National Association of Building Designers 2016 Awards in the category of Best New Residential Design over $1M construction cost.

Sorrento House 1 on Melbourne’s Mornington Peninsula is the Australian Beach house reborn. A well-honed palette of materials is introduced, their application modulated masterfully and subtly. Timber battening twists to become shuttering for windows. A cast concrete wall articulates the point of entry while the low-slung, ocean grey roof constructed from seamless custom Colorbond®, offers sinuous and stylish protection from seaward weather.

“Clients who seek us out are looking for someone who can take a unique approach to their property,” explains Vibe Design’s director Michael O’Sullivan, “and this property was no exception. The young family were looking for a beach house with a difference.”

Vibe’s approach set out to redefine the hallmark elements of a traditional beach house to produce a modern version.

Because the site sloped significantly down from street level, the roof became a defining form for the project.

But Vibe’s twist was to conceive of it not as one, but two asymmetrical forms

Image: Vibe Design Group

Image: Vibe Design Group

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that take the place of the usual verandah at the entry and rear. The classic holiday home verandah and deck reconceived into contemporary minimalist massing. Michael says this form became the “hero of the situation: it looks great, and it provides shelter and protection.”

It might sound counter-intuitive but Michael says that it was by paying close attention to detail that the gracious minimalism of this residence was achieved.

“We apply a distinctive design awareness and thinking to our projects.”

The Judges agreed. They said: “the asymmetric angular lines of this modern beach house is a spacious synthesis of timber, concrete and steel used sensitively and is assertively defined by the black

window detailing. A fabulous juxtaposition of cast concrete walls that looks strong yet feel soft when combined with timber panelling and floors that feel bold yet look comfortable.

This is a well-resolved design that permeates right through to the interior design and decoration. A stunning three-bedroom home with a thoughtful kitchen design, a spacious gym, supportive storage, inviting living rooms and expansive decking that invites entertaining by the fire-place and pool respectively. The house demonstrates that modesty and luxury can be reconciled through good design.

Luxurious practicality and a clean aesthetic make this project deserving of its Awards.”

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Image: Luke Boyle

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

About the Kitchen:

working wall where the white cupboards almost float from the concrete wall.

The Judges said this was a sleek monolithic kitchen with a restrained palette of relaxed materials and strong rectangular forms.

The application of drawers provides practical and easy-to-access storage.

There are no interruptions to the island bench providing an expansive area to prepare and serve.

The bold black tapware, wine rack and window frame give definition to the

The kitchen’s design is simple yet bold, with a sleek rectangular block of timber cabinetry supporting a substantial concrete bench top and water fall end.

Integrated appliances and a butler’s pantry maintain the clean structure and the mess, away from view.

A kitchen that will be enjoyed each day, and wonderful for serving and entertaining guests in this modern beach house.

Appreciating the roof form and chimney from the pool.

Doors to the master bedroom and main living area open

Acknowledgements Designer: Vibe Design Group P/L

www.vibedesign.com.au Builder: Icon Synergy P/L Building Surveyor: Nepean Building Permits Structural Engineer: NSIENT Consulting Engineers Photography: Vibe Design Group, and Luke Boyle Image: Luke Boyle

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BDAV NEWS

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Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

Plan Melbourne

by Kate Bell, BDAV CEO On 11 March 2017, Plan Melbourne was released. Plan Melbourne is a metropolitan planning strategy that defines the future shape of the city and state over the next 35 years.

Integrating long-term land use, infrastructure and transport planning, Plan Melbourne sets out the strategy for supporting jobs and growth, while building on Melbourne’s legacy of distinctiveness, liveability and sustainability.

The plan includes: 9 principles to guide policies and actions: – A distinctive Melbourne; – A globally connected and competitive city; – A city of centres linked to regional Victoria; – Environmental resilience and sustainability;

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Precinct Structure Planning Guidelines

– Living locally- 20 minute neighbourhoods; – Social and economic participation; – Strong and healthy communities; – Infrastructure investment that supports balanced city growth; – Leadership and partnership.

7 outcomes to strive for in creating a competitive, liveable and sustainable city: – Melbourne is a productive city that attracts investment, supports innovation and creates jobs; – Melbourne provides housing choice in locations close to jobs and services; – Melbourne has an integrated transport system that connects people to jobs and services and goods to market; – Melbourne is a distinctive and liveable city with quality design and amenity;

– Melbourne is a city of inclusive, vibrant and healthy neighbourhoods – Melbourne is a sustainable and resilient city; – Regional Victoria is productive, sustainable and supports jobs and economic growth.

32 directions outlining how these outcomes will be achieved.

90 policies detailing how these directions will be turned into action.

A full summary is available at: http:// www.planmelbourne.vic.gov.au/the-plan In addition, a separate five-year Implementation Plan with 112 actions has been developed.

In line with policy positions, the BDAV will be committing resources to ensure involvement in the following actions:

Update the Precinct Structure Guidelines to incorporate learnings from previous Precinct Structure Plans (PSPs) in growth areas, and to align with Plan Melbourne and extend their application to urban renewal areas.

This will include undertaking an independent assessment of the outcomes of the existing PSPs in consultation with growth area councils, communities and the development industry.

Key Plan Melbourne elements for incorporation in PSP guidelines are:  Creating 20-minute neighbourhoods.  Applying the residential zones and Mixed Use Zone to encourage a diversity of lot sizes and housing types in the short and long term.  Providing for residential densities of 25 or more dwellings per hectare close to activity centres and adjacent to train stations and high quality public transport in growth areas.  Providing for greater diversity of employment uses, including small businesses.  Promoting walking and cycling in the design of new suburbs, particularly to schools.  Planning for health and/or education precincts  Facilitating future renewable and low-emission energygeneration technologies.  Greening in both the public and private realm, focusing on increasing vegetation on properties, transport corridors and public lands.  Considering options for creating space for not-for-profit organisations in activity centres and shared pace in community centres.  Applying planning provisions in growth area PSPs and settlement planning in peri-urban areas to best manage natural hazards.  Providing for waste and resource recovery infrastructure in line with the Metropolitan Waste and Resource Recovery Implementation Plan.

Continued page 8.....

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Industry News

BDAV NEWS

Plan Melbourne (continued) 24

Planning system reforms for social and affordable housing

Reform the planning system to facilitate the supply of social and affordable housing. Reforms should:  Develop and implement definitions of social and affordable housing into the planning system.  Formally recognise and give statutory effect to the delivery of social and affordable housing as a legitimate planning outcome in Victoria. This will enable the development of new planning provisions or tools to deliver social and affordable housing including exploring inclusionary zoning and mechanisms to capture and share value created through planning controls.  Develop a streamlined planning approval process for social housing projects.

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Voluntary tool for affordable housing decisions

Develop a voluntary tool and best-practice guidance to provide certainty and ease of delivery where affordable housing outcomes have been agreed between local government and the applicant.

This voluntary tool could be used by councils pursuing affordable housing, or as a planning concessions to developers in exchange for affordable housing.

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Review residential development provisions

Review the residential development provisions in the Victoria Planning Provisions to increase the supply of housing in established areas and streamline the planning approvals process for developments in locations identified for housing change. This will include:  reviewing the VicSmart provisions;  establishing measures to develop a codified process for the approval of medium-density housing in identified locations.

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Better Apartment Design Standards

Implement the finalised apartment design standards to ensure that new apartments are environmentally sustainable, have amenity and quality functional layouts.

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Streamline the approvals process for specific housing types

Development and implement a streamlined approvals process for specific housing types that address local housing gaps such as agedcare accommodation, secondary dwellings and student housing.

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Planning for shared housing, community care units and crisis accommodation

Reform planning provisions for shared housing, community care units and crisis accommodation to clarify rules, exemptions and definitions so that these forms of housing continue to be facilitated through the planning system.

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Excellence in built environment design

Promote excellence in how Victoria’s built environment is designed and constructed by:  embedding design review in the assessment of significant development projects to ensure the highest possible design outcomes are achieved on major public- and private-sector projects. This will apply to: – significant government or funded (including local government) projects; – projects that impact on places on the Victorian Heritage Register; – significant private-sector projects referred by local government;  strengthening design understanding and capabilities within all levels of government.

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Urban design advisory service to local government

Partner with local government to establish a three-year pilot urban design advisory service (modelled on the successful heritage advisory service).

Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

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Plan Melbourne (continued) 68

Lead by example in design services procurement for government projects

Investigate opportunities to improve design services procurement policy for the delivery of government projects.

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Heritage planning initiatives

Ensure that Melbourne’s heritage assets and distinctive historic precincts are protected, enhanced and celebrated by:  working with local governments to enhance and improve local heritage planning policies, controls and assessment processes  developing guidelines in relation to the conservation of cultural heritage;  ensuring heritage conservation values are considered in urban renewal precincts and other places across the city  using innovative ways to communicate and celebrate Melbourne’s history for residents and visitors alike;  promoting and supporting development of heritage tourism opportunities;  recognising the diverse ways in which people celebrate their heritage through arts and culture projects.

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Review of planning and building systems to support environmentally sustainable development outcomes

Review the Victorian planning and building systems to support environmentally sustainable development outcomes for new buildings to consider their energy, water and waste management performance.

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Lead by example on environmentally sustainable development outcomes

Lead by example by establishing minimum energy, water and waste performance standards for the construction and upgrade of government buildings including public housing.

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Energy efficiency of existing buildings

Improve the energy efficiency of existing housing (including rental properties) and non-residential buildings to meet Victoria’s net zero emissions target by 2050. This includes the Greener Government Buildings Program and roll-out of the Residential Efficiency Scorecard, to enable homeowners to understand and improve the energy performance of their homes, and a strengthen and expanded Victorian Energy Efficiency Target Scheme.

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Higher building energy efficiency standards

Advocate for higher building energy efficiency standards through national forums that are consistent with broader energy efficiency policy.

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Renewal energy technologies to achieve Victorian renewable energy targets of 25% by 2020 and 40% by 2025

Facilitate the uptake of renewable energy technologies by:  establishing a whole-of-government policy framework for the deployment and operation of renewable energy technologies and facilitate opportunities for local electricity general in growth areas and strategic sites;  promoting the use of battery storage technology, such as through a regulatory framework;  investigating opportunities and constraints for precinct-scale use of renewable resources;  investigating opportunities for renewal energy initiatives in Melbourne’s green wedges and peri-urban areas;  partnering with others to deliver renewable energy demonstration projects;  leading by example by implementing renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives in government projects, including large-scale public buildings, roads and public transport projects;  establishing a renewal energy auction scheme.

Continued page 11....

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BDAV NEWS

Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

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Five-Year Registration

by John Verdon, BDAV Membership Officer What will the shift to five-year registration cost me as a Building Designer?

The VBA has advised that Registered Practitioners in the Building Design category are considered a non-domestic classification, due to the unlimited nature of this registration class.

The BDAV has informed members via a number of articles at news.bdav.org. au about the Victorian Building Authority’s shift to a five-year registration period.

The fees for non-domestic classes of registration – specifically Draftsperson – as at 13/04/2017 and for the 1 July 2016 to 30 June 2017 period are:

Over the next five years, all registered practitioners will be transitioned into this model. The last of the registered practitioners will be transitioned across by 30 June 2022.

The VBA has now confirmed the fees and charges applicable to Building Designers on the five-year registration schedule, which was introduced on 1 September 2016.

practitioners outlines the Five Year Registration Renewal Process.

What does it cost to get registered as a Building Designer?

Year 1 (Annual fee)

For any members who have attended the BDAV’s pre-registration course and are considering applying for registration, the fees and payments fact sheet – available at the below link – also covers the cost of registration. $123.20

Year 2 (Annual fee)

$123.20

Year 3 (Annual fee)

$123.20

Year 4 (Annual fee)

$123.20

Year 5 (Annual + Renewal fee)

$214.30

The VBA’s fact sheet on five year registration renewal for existing building

It currently costs $123.20 to apply for registration if you are not currently registered as a Building Designer.

The fees and payments fact sheet is available at http://www. vba.vic.gov.au/fees-and-payments/ building-registration-fees

Plan Melbourne (continued) 85

Improvement of natural-hazard, climate change and environmental adaptation and riskmitigation strategies in the Victoria Planning Provisions

Review, update and improve the implementation of natural hazard, climate change and environmental adaption and risk-mitigation strategies in the Victoria Planning Provisions and planning schemes to:  ensure the right identification of the hazard through agreed technical criteria with data custodians;  ensure a consistent statewide policy approach targeted to relevant natural hazards and climate change impacts;  improve the approach to settlement resilience in areas exposed to high natural hazard and climate change risk;  ensure provisions remain current and based on the best available climate change science;  influence growth and settlement patterns to avoid and reduce long-term risk.

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Coastal hazard assessment

Complete local coastal hazard assessments and associated risk analysis for Port Phillip Bay and Western Port.

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Incorporate climate change risks into infrastructure planning

Prepare guidance to support local government on the application of the Australian Standard Climate change adaption for settlements and infrastructure – a risk based approach to the planning, design and ongoing management of settlement and infrastructure.

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Guidelines for noise impact in new developments

Investigate ways to reduce the impacts of noise in new developments in a cost-effective manner. These will focus on ensuring that new development meet their responsibility of mitigating noise impacts such as those from transport, industry and entertainment.

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Waste collection and resource recovery for medium- and highdensity development

Review and streamline planning provisions for waste management and resource recovery for medium- and high-density residential and mixed-used developments, including investigating and encouraging precinct-wide innovations in waste management and resource recovery.

If you are interested in assist BDAV in providing feedback for any of these action items, email info@bdav.org.au noting the

subject as: Plan Melbourne, and in the contents selection the action items you would like to be involved in. BDAV will

then get in touch once work commences on those projects.

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Planning Tidbits

BDAV NEWS

Latest Residential Zone Changes: What Practitioners Need to Know In mid April 2017, the State Government made sweeping changes to the residential zones across Victoria. The changes are widely speculated to be an attempt to redress some of the imbalance that resulted from the over-implementation of the Neighbourhood Residential Zone (and other restrictive controls), with little or no scrutiny, after the 2013-14 adoption of the, then, new residential zones.

This latest raft of changes are generally considered to be a positive step in the direction of housing-diversity.

However, there are also some significant considerations that are likely to stifle previously acceptable development, with which practitioners should be familiar.

Following is a summary of some of the more significant changes contained in the most widely applied residential zones: General Residential (GRZ), Neighbourhood Residential (NRZ) and Residential Growth Zones (RGZ).

Revised Purpose of Zones The purpose of the three most common residential zones have been altered as follows: Within the GRZ, increased weight has been given to housing diversity and growth in appropriate locations; The purpose of the NRZ no longer includes reference to ‘limiting development’, but still seeks to strongly protect neighbourhood character; The RGZ now includes a new objective that seeks to achieve the Design Objectives contained in the Schedule to the zone (discussed in more detail later).

These changes are generally considered to be a reduction in the protectionist objectives set by the previous Government. However, this upside is significantly tempered by a number of other changes discussed below.

New Neighbourhood Character and Design Objectives to be included in Schedules Although we have not yet seen an example, the schedules to the three zones will soon incorporate either Neighbourhood Character Objectives (in the case of GRZ & NRZ) or Design Objectives (in the case of RGZ).

These new Objectives will form part of the ‘Decision Guidelines’ that Council must consider when determining your application. Although it could be said that the amended purposes of the zones have reduced the weight given to protecting neighbourhood character, it remains to be seen how much weight will be given to the new Neighbourhood Character and Design Objectives, and whether those objectives will outweigh the benefit of the less ardent purposes to each Zone.

Removal of Maximum Number of Dwellings in NRZ Regular applicants will be aware that the introduction of the new Neighbourhood Residential Zone, in 2013, specified a mandatory maximum number of dwellings at Clause 32.09-3 that read: The number of dwellings on a lot must not exceed the number specified in a schedule to this zone. If no number is specified, the number of dwellings on a lot must not exceed two.

This restriction has been removed within the latest changes. There is now no maximum mandatory number of dwellings per lot specified in any Victorian residential zones.

This change may well put back on the drawing-board a number of projects that were previously refused (or abandoned) because they were prohibited due to exceeding the mandatory number of dwellings previously specified in the NRZ.

New Minimum Lot Size in NRZ Although the abovementioned, removal of mandatory maximum number of dwellings is a welcome alteration to the NRZ, it has been replaced with a restriction that now allows Councils to specify a mandatory minimum lot size within the schedule to the zone.

It is expected that conservative Councils will move quickly to incorporate minimum lot sizes into the schedules of their NRZs.

New Garden Area Requirements Both the General and Neighbourhood Residential Zones now include mandatory ‘minimum garden area requirements’.

Ashley Thompson, Clause:1

Little bits that can make a big difference to your town planning outcomes

These requirements are identical for both zones, are contained at Clauses 32.08-4 and 32.09-4 respectively, and are relevant to both development and subdivision applications.

The new requirements for Garden Areas is summarised below:

Lot Size in Square Metres

Minimum % of lot required to be set aside for Garden Area

400 – 500

25%

501- 650

30%

650

35%

These garden area requirements must be met, whether or not a planning permit is required, meaning that your building surveyor must also ensure they are met.

A definition of “Garden Area” has been included in Clause 72 as follows: An uncovered outdoor area of a dwelling or residential building normally associated with a garden. It includes open entertaining areas, decks, lawns, garden beds, swimming pools, tennis courts and the like. It does not include a driveway, any area set aside for car parking, any building or roofed area, and any area that has a dimension of less than 1 metre.

This new requirement has significant potential to impact the developability of land, and practitioners should consider its impact carefully prior to developing any design response.

New Height Requirements All building heights are mandatory maximums and a permit cannot be issued, or a building constructed, that exceeds the maximum height specified.

In all three residential zones, a height can be specified in the schedule to the

Planning Tidbits

zone. Where a height is not specified in the schedule, the default height contained in the zoning provisions applies.

The following summaries the changes contained in amendment VC110: RGZ: Default height of a mandatory 13.5m remains unchanged; NRZ: Default height has changed from a mandatory 8m to mandatory 9m and no more than two storeys; GRZ: Default height has changed from a discretionary 9m to a mandatory maximum of 11m and no more than three storeys.

Notably, the incorporation of a ‘no more than 2 or 3 storey’ height requirement, in the NRZ and GRZ, respectively, will pose significant problems for sloped sights. Clause:1 has already seen one example of such a proposal that will need to be redesigned due to a protruding basement, in order to meet these requirements.

In all three zones, if land is subject to inundation, the maximum height can now be measured from the minimum floor level, as determined by the relevant drainage or flood plain management authority, rather than natural ground level.

A very limited set of exemptions exist to the mandatory height requirements and are contained in the following provisions: RGZ: Clause 32.07-8 NRZ: Clause 32.09-9 GRZ: Clause 38.08-9

Transitional Provisions A number of transitional provisions have been included in all three zones in an attempt to limit the extent of disruption associated with existing planning permit applications lodged prior to 13 April 2017.

Practitioners should read the transitional provisions carefully and seek advice if unsure of their implications.

Other Changes A number of other smaller changes have also been made to the three primary zones including: These tid-bits are part of the regular contribution made by Clause:1 Planning to BDAV News.

For more information, contact Ashley Thompson on (03) 9370 9599 or visit www.clause1.com.au

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

New references are provided within the GRZ and RGZ to the Better Apartment Standards, now incorporated into the VPPs at Clause 58. These Standards are now relevant to developments of five storeys or more; and Re-structuring and rewording of a number of the provisions within each zone.

Changes, similar to those above, have also been made to the Township Zones and Mixed Use Zones throughout Victoria.

Practitioners need to familiarise themselves with the newly altered zones.

Our office has already seen a number of proposals that were permitted in January which are now prohibited, as a result of the most recent changes.

Clause:1 expects the numerous interpretation and application issues that are likely to arise in the near future will be clarified by the Tribunal over time. We will keep you informed as further clarification comes to light.

As always, if you have any queries in relation to the matters discussed above, please do not hesitate to contact our office.

Expansion of VicSmart Regular permit applicants will be familiar with VicSmart, Clauses 90-95 of the Victorian Planning Provisions (VPP), introduced in 2014. VicSmart provides a shorter planning permit process for simple and straightforward applications. Key characteristics of the VicSmart system include: A 10 statutory-day timeframe in which Council should determine applications; Exemption from 3rd party notification and review rights; Assessment against a narrow and specific set of decision guidelines; Applicants are expected to obtain any relevant referral advice before lodging; Removal of elected members of Council from the decision process.

The type (or classes) of applications that can be processed under VicSmart are listed in Clause 92 of the VPP, with specific details such as applicationinformation requirements and specific decision guidelines contained in Clause 93.

A recent (March 2017) state-wide planning scheme amendment (VC135) has expanded the reach of VicSmart Continued page 15.....

www.clause1.com.au

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Planning Tidbits

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

15

Expansion of VicSmart (continued) by incorporating additional classes of applications and lowering the bar for some existing application types. Below is a summary of the more notable changes, as well as areas that have not changed within VicSmart as a result of the latest amendment.

As outlined in the below table, this most recent set of changes significantly increases the number of application types/classes that fall within the VicSmart system. Clause:1 is hopeful that more and more application types will be included within VicSmart over time.

Permit applicants should make themselves familiar with the criteria for applications within VicSmart, and consider utilising this faster system whenever possible.

Application Triggering Provision

New Class of Application added to VicSmart

Changes to Existing Classes of Applications

Residential Zones

Nil

Nil

Industrial Zones

Nil

The value of works for applications to construct a building or construct or carry out works has been increased from $50K to $1M, allowing for more applications to be captured by the VicSmart system.

Commercial Zones

Nil

The value of works for applications to construct a building or construct or carry out works has been increased from $50K to $500K, allowing for more applications to be captured by the VicSmart system.

Rural Zones

Numerous new application types included within RLZ, GWZ, RCZ, FZ, RAZ (See page 4of16 Clause 92 VVP)

Not applicable. Zones newly included in VicSmart provisions.

Special Use Zone

Numerous new application types included (See page 5 of 15 Clause 92 VVP)

Not applicable. Zone newly included in VicSmart provisions.

Comprehensive Development Zone

Numerous new application types included (See page 5 of 15 Clause 92 VVP)

Not applicable. Zone newly included in VicSmart provisions.

Capital City Zone

Nil

The value of works for applications to construct a building or construct or carry out works on land used for specific purposes has been increased from $50K to $500K, allowing for more applications to be captured by the VicSmart system.

Docklands Zone

Nil

The value of works for applications to construct a building or construct or carry out works on land used for specific purposes has been increased from $50K to $500K, allowing for more applications to be captured by the VicSmart system.

Priority Development Zone

Numerous new application types included (See page 8 of 15 Clause 92 VVP)

Not applicable. Zone newly included in VicSmart provisions.

Activity Centre Zone

Numerous new application types included (See page 9 of 15 Clause 92 VVP)

Not applicable. Zone newly included in VicSmart provisions.

Environmental Significance Overlay

Numerous new application types included (See page 9 of 15 Clause 92 VVP)

Not applicable. Overlay newly included in VicSmart provisions. ....Continued on page 17

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BDAV NEWS

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Planning Tidbits

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

Expansion of VicSmart (continued) Vegetation Protection Overlay

Nil

Nil

Significant Landscape Overlay

Certain type of buildings and works associated with a dwelling including construction of a carport, garage, shed, watertank and more

Nil

Heritage Overlay

Nil

Nil

Design & Development Overlay

Numerous new application types included (See page 12 of 15 Clause 92 VVP)

Nil

Neighbourhood Character Overlay

Numerous new application types included (See page 12 of 15 Clause 92 VVP)

Nil

Erosion Management Overlay

Numerous new application types included (See page 13 of 15 Clause 92 VVP)

Not applicable. Overlay newly included in VicSmart provisions.

Salinity Management Overlay

Numerous new application types included (See page 13 of 15 Clause 92 VVP)

Not applicable. Overlay newly included in VicSmart provisions.

Special Building Overlay

Nil

Nil

Parking Overlay

Nil

Nil

Advertising Signs (Cl 52.05)

Nil

Signs displayed within an increased number of zones have been included in VicSmart

Car Parking (Cl 52.06)

Nil

The requirements for an application to reduce carparking has increased from 5 spaces to 10 spaces, allowing for more applications to be captured by the VicSmart system.

Loading & Unloading of Vehicles (Cl 52.07)

Nil

Nil

Development Victoria Established Last month, the Victorian State Government merged Places Victoria and Major Projects Victoria to establish Development Victoria, a statutory authority to lead in the development and renewal of publicly-owned land.

Development Victoria will deliver property and precinct development projects to meet government’s policy objectives and apply its experience and expertise to the delivery of civic projects that enhance our state.

Development Victoria aims to create and deliver economic and social value to Victoria. It also aims to create a sense of place and prosperity through development, urban renewal and community connection.

Development Victoria staff are skilled in realising opportunities and managing risks to develop publicly-owned land and deliver complex projects.

Some of Development Victoria’s current projects include the revitalisation

of central Dandenong, the Ballarat West Employment Zone, and the ongoing development of Docklands.

It also oversees important civic projects such as the State Library, Flinders Street Station and Melbourne Park redevelopments. Projects in the pipeline include renewal of the Arden and Fisherman’s Bend precincts.

For more information, go to www.development.vic.gov.au.

17

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V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

Marketing Tips

19

by Verity Campbell

expect you to supply first-class photos.

One of the functions of my business is to help designers secure media attention.

If they have a project they want published, I’ll help select the right media outlet for their project, then we’ll write the release and approach the editors. These days – with email and an increasing range of media platforms – it is easier than ever for designers themselves to approach editors and develop relationships. But this doesn’t necessarily mean it’s getting easier to get published; it means there are more projects for editors to choose from.

Standards are rising, so there is more need than ever for your approach to be well considered. In my experience, the three primary reasons projects don’t get picked up by media include:

Professionally photographed means taken by someone who does architectural photography for a living, not a hobby.

And I stress architectural photography because the different photography disciplines – portrait, wedding etc – require different skills, aptitudes and equipment for starters. There aren’t too many photographers who straddle all disciplines confidently.

1. The project isn’t newsworthy. It’s that simple. Editors are paid to engage readers and they do that by curating interesting subject matter. The more unique and engaging the content, the more likely they are to keep and grow their readership. Online blogs need projects that people click and engage with to stay longer on their site. Print publications usually want to be the first to ‘break’ a story to build and secure their reputation.

This means editors are looking for intriguing, engaging projects – the more different and unexpected the better. No matter how long and hard you worked on the project, you have to honestly weigh up its chances of being published when viewed alongside perhaps 50 other projects hitting the editor’s inbox that day.

There are plenty of other ways to publicise your work – media is only one outlet – so don’t be disheartened if you decide putting together a release isn’t worth the risk that the project won’t be published.

2. You skimp on photography and styling. 95% of publications, print or online, won’t look twice at a project that is not professionally photographed and styled. And why should they? Readers align everything in a publication – words, image or advertisement – with the publication, and the editor doesn’t want to compromise its reputation. Even the big print magazines who usually do their own photography and styling shoots would

“Verity’s newsletter is spot on for small business owners. She speaks our language, understands our needs – and our modest budgets – and consistently shows up with actionable content to help grow our businesses.” Peter Jackson Design

And styling. An editor’s trained eye sees amateur styling immediately – dated pot-plants or shoes in the corner, a dog’s tail in the corner (yes, I have seen them all) – which tells them you’re not taking their time seriously. If you want to get published, to enjoy the free benefits to your business this brings, you should enter the ‘contract’ with a respectful appreciation of the time the editor is taking to review your approach and promote your ideas and business.

Any designer who says they can’t afford the $3,000 or $5,000 or – whatever it takes to do their most recent exceptional project justice – isn’t thinking in the best interests of future business.

Because if it’s a great project, you need to invest in it and promote it to get more of it – you only need one commission off the back of the photography for return on investment, with anything else a bonus.

You also usually only get one shot at it, meaning there’s no use deciding to do the photography properly 18 months later when the walls are grubby, or your client has sold and moved on, or you’re too embarrassed to reapproach the client because you haven’t talked to them for ages. Media also prioritises new projects.

In this heavily contested space, older projects are less likely to get published.

3. You fail to highlight what’s ‘newsworthy’ about the project. So let’s assume the project you’re readying for publicity is exceptional, and you’ve forked out the necessary funds required to give your project the best chance of success through great photography and styling.

Now you have to ensure your pitch is the best it can be. In the recent Victorian chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects’ awards presentations to jurors, I saw a number of presentations. Each architect has eight minutes to convince the jurors that their project is worthy of a site visit. If they fail to do this effectively, they risk failing their project. So what did I see? One of Melbourne’s largest and most prestigious architectural firms ran out of time leaving their key messages to be

rushed through at the end.

Another architect only revealed her project’s most interesting idea by accident during question time. These errors come down to lack of communications planning: what are the key selling points for the project and how and when should you convey them. Don’t make this same mistake with your media pitch. Make it easy for editors to see what’s exceptional, and work out how to convey this early and clearly for a time poor editor.

Writing, marketing and communications for design and related businesses. Join my weekly newsletter for new ideas, tips and advice. Sign up at www.veritycampbell.com.au/newsletter Verity Campbell Communications: www.veritycampbell.com.au

Verity Campbell

Three Reasons Why Your Work Isn’t Getting Published

20

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Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

Separating Walls on Boundaries – a Gap with Fire Safety Implications The VBA’s Pro-Active Inspection Program has identified many garage brick walls on boundaries being bricked only as high as the course below the lower end of the pitched gutters and, in some cases, only as high as the top plate.

This practice saves a number of courses of brickwork and avoids the task of splitting bricks. The gap that extends up to the underside of the gutter is being clad with a metal sheet Colorbond flashing, with the structural framework immediately behind, including wall and roof framing members.

The VBA reminds practitioners that Colorbond flashing is not a fire-rated material, and does not provide fireseparation in its own right.

What should be done?

The Building Code of Australia – NCC Series, Vol. 2, sets out the Performance Requirements relating to protection from the spread of fire. Key information on this issue can be found in Part 2.3.1 – Fire Safety: Protection from the spread of fire and Part 3.7.1 – Fire Separation, including Part 3.7.1.3 External walls of Class 1 buildings and Clause 3.7.1.8 Separating walls.

BCA Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) provisions for External Walls on Boundaries includes four diagrams indicating acceptable construction methods (Figure 3.7.1.3). It is important to note that figure 3.7.1.3 (c) does not permit a gap to be provided between the underside of the gutter, the flashing or brickwork.

Figures 3.7.1.11 provide acceptable construction practices for separating walls between dwellings.

to the underside of the roof covering.

Concessions exist to permit certain elements to cross or pass through a fire wall.

What can you, as a practitioner do?

Building practitioners should speak with the RBS prior to carrying out any building work that falls outside the BCA DTS provisions and Australian Standards.

Building inspectors are advised to report to the RBS any performance solutions used in construction that are not part of the approved documentation, or do not comply with the BCA DTS provisions and Australian Standards.

Remember: it is not the role of the building inspector during the inspection process to approve Performance Solutions that have not been considered or approved by the RBS.

Examples of non-compliant building work:

Example of a typical domestic garage wall on the title boundary with a non-compliant fire-resisting wall. Excessive metal flashing between the top of the brick wall and the underside of the gutter. can be seen.

Performance Solutions may be proposed that meet Performance Requirement P2.3.1. However, these must be designed by a suitably qualified person and be reviewed and approved by the Relevant Building Surveyor (RBS) to verify compliance with BCA Clause 1.0.5 (Clause A0.5 of Volume 1). This is to occur prior to construction.

For Class 2 to 9 buildings (BCA Volume 1), the Performance Requirements are contained in Clauses CP2 and CP8.

Compliance with BCA Volume 1, Clause A0.5 is to be verified by the RBS prior to construction. DTS Clause C2.7 specifies that a fire wall is to be carried through

missing and the metal flashing should also continue and be located directly under the roof covering – refer Figure 3.7.1.3(c) of the BCA).

Example of a typical domestic wall on the title boundary with the timber framing behind the gutter and metal flashing; without the required fire-resisting protection in place.

(Note: approximately 3 brick courses are

Example of a completed domestic project where the top 340mm of the external wall on the boundary is non-complaint.

21

22

BDAV NEWS

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Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

23

Winners Announced in the Small Home BIG LIFE Competition 2017 Two BDAV Student Members from Bendigo TAFE have featured in the winners of the Small Home BIG LIFE competition: Heidi Stoll was selected as the winner in the XS category, and Jessica Fredericks was the runner up in the same category.

The winners are: Winner of XXS : Tatiana Volodomanova (Chisholm Institute) Runner up for XXS : Louise Waters (Melbourne Polytechnic) Winner XS : Heidi Stoll (Bendigo TAFE) Runner up XS : Jessica Fredericks (Bendigo TAFE)

Small home BIG LIFE aims to promote the small house trend through an annual small home design competition for first year TAFE Building Design students and first year Architecture Degree students.

Small house design requires careful attention to how occupants are likely to live, move through and use their small home. Consideration is to be given to how the small space will be furnished, where belongings will be stored, how guests will be accommodated and, most importantly, how a smaller-than-normal space can be made to feel inviting rather than confining.

The program believes that ‘small really is the new black’, and building smaller will help address our affordability, sustainability and housing diversity challenges.

The competition is the brainchild of Sally Wills from Small Change Design & Construction, a builder who is passionat about designing and building genuinely

Special Commendation for Excellence in Presentation (3d) : Simon Hodson (Melbourne Polytechnic).

James Hardie Systems Purchases Ritek Wall Systems James Hardie has acquired the Ritek Wall Systems business as part of the company’s strategy to expand its product offering into the growing medium to high density construction segment.

The Ritek Wall Systems business will operate through a company called James Hardie Systems Pty Ltd, which forms part of the James Hardie group and is headed up by General Manager, Steven Terzian.

“Permanent formwork is approximately 30 per cent of the medium to high density construction market,” says Mr Terzian.

“The Ritek permanent formwork walling system is a quality product that enables the delivery of a durable finished wall.

The speed of wall construction allows our customers to optimise their construction budgets and improve building timeframes.”

James Hardie Systems will be focusing on complementing the premium

Ritek wall system by further enhancing customer experience to deliver a leading permanent formwork system across the Australian market.

To support growth, the company will be expanding the sales and marketing teams – Kristy Harder has been appointed marketing manager and Bassem Francis in the Finance Manager role.

“James Hardie has had a long term partnership with Ritek Wall Systems, as the supplier of quality fibre cement products for the manufacture of the Ritek permanent formwork walling systems.

Ritek Wall Systems now benefits from James Hardies’ strong support network and we welcome the Ritek team to our organisation,” says Mr Terzian.

“James Hardie Systems will continue to operate from the Cooroy manufacturing facility and serve our Australian customers – it’s business as usual.”

small homes that are energy efficient and clever with space.

Congratulations to all the winners, who clearly all have a great career ahead of them in the design profession.

(Image is from Tatiana Volodomanova’s submission)

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25

VBA Proactive Inspection Program Update The VBA’s Proactive Inspection Program visits buildings under construction, inspecting the work and engaging with building and plumbing practitioners about: the VBA’s role and function as a Regulator; the project (identifying matters, both good and bad);

their obligations to rectify identified matters; and their roles and responsibilities.

It is common for a site to have numerous inspection items. Many of these inspection items may be determined as being compliant with the legislation (i.e. no-risk). However, some may be determined to be non-compliant with the legislation and would be assigned a risk level (low, moderate, significant or high).

One inspection may result in many no-risk inspection items, and a mixture of low, moderate, significant or highrisk levels.

In January 2017, the VBA conducted 66 proactive inspections, taking the cumulative total for 2016/17 to Risk Level

1127 inspections – 62.6% of the target of 1,800.

About the Monthly Activity Report The objectives of the monthly report is to publish relevant information about the VBA’s Proactive Inspection Program, its findings, and how the program is tracking against target objectives for the 2016/2017 financial year.

About the VBA Risk Based Approach Based on the risk level identified during the site inspection, the VBA will engage both informally and formally with the relevant people involved in the project – including the builder, building surveyor, and other regulators – depending on the matters identified.

The following table provides the VBA’s response according to the risk level: Treatment Plan

No risk

Compliant; no further action

Low Risk

Advise relevant person

Moderate risk

Advise relevant person; require feedback on intended actions

Significant risk

Advise relevant person; require feedback on intended actions; VBA monitors the matter through to resolution

High risk

Advise relevant person; require feedback on intended actions; VBA monitors and as necessary case manage through to resolution

Builders Aware in Geelong and the Surf Coast A week-long building regulator inspection program last month has found construction in Greater Geelong and the Surf Coast is riding a wave of compliance.

The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) – in conjunction with Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) WorkSafe, Energy Safe Victoria (ESV) and Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) – rolled out Build Aware in February, inspecting more than 100 construction sites across the region.

Build Aware aims to demonstrate how co-regulators can work together to improve efficiency and reinforce the importance of compliance in the building, plumbing and construction industry.

Regulators hoped the initiative would improve practitioner understanding of building laws and public awareness of the industry regulators.

While the majority of the inspections found there was no risk or very low risk of non-compliance with the Building Act, two excavation sites in Lorne were found to be non-compliant with regulations and were closed. The building practitioner responsible has been spoken to by the VBA and is working to rectify the identified issues. The Municipal Building Surveyor for the Surf Coast Shire was also notified by the VBA. “Overall, the results were pleasing, with the majority of work sites inspected presenting no risk or very low risk of a breach” said Murray Smith, Director of Enquiries, Inspections and Compliance.

“It shows the building industry in Greater Geelong and the Surf Coast is buoyant.”

EPA South West Regional Manager, Carolyn Francis, said EPA officers looked specifically at how sites were managing construction and demolition waste.

“While demolition waste was being stored on one property without a council permit, there was generally a good understanding of waste management requirements,” said Ms Francis.

“That said, some industry members were surprised to hear that the ultimate responsibility for making sure waste is managed and disposed of correctly can’t be sub-contracted out. Waste generators, waste transporters and waste receivers are all legally responsible.”

Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria, Simon Cohen said “Our second Build Aware event was very successful from our perspective. Working with our coregulators provided a great opportunity to inform consumers and builders about the services we all provide in the domestic building space.”

26

BDAV NEWS

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V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

Todd’s Apps

27

Todd’s Top Apps Apple TV remote

Superscreen OK, not really an app or hardware (yet…)

– but will be sort of both. Superscreen is a ‘kickstarter’ project that essentially provides an iPad-esque screen only that can be wirelessly connected to your phone.

The obvious advantage of this is that you no longer need to have 2 or 3 devices all with their own brains and capability.

Simply invest in a high-powered phone – which has its own smaller screen.

However, if you need more screen real-estate then simply connect and switch the big one. Seems like it has the potential to provide a good solution but without breaking the bank. This project generated 2.5mil in backers – so looks like quite a few people think so too.

Anyone using an Apple TV unit whether at home or at work... might save you a little time to download the helper app that enables you to control it directly from your iPhone. The reality is it probably doesn’t bring anything more to the table that the one that it comes with does. However, it is one less thing you need to have nearby when using it.

Concepts Concepts is another drawing app – suitable for use on all the usual suspects: iphone, iPad mini, Retina and pro. Similar to some of the other apps like Paper and Autodesk Sketch book – but with their own take on

If any other members use or know any new or interesting apps, please feel free to drop me a line to info@bdav.org.au and I’ll share them with other members. functionality, gestures and approach. So, if you are one of these people trying to get paperless, but haven’t found exactly the right app to suit your style – add this to your list to try out. Free version as well as a Pro paid version available.

It’s getting some pretty good reviews so must be doing something right.

Todd Pearce

A monthly review of must have, worthy of looking or just plain interesting apps that are relevant to the design industry. Compiled by Todd Pearce, MBDAV.

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Industry News

BDAV NEWS

VBA Acts After Homeowner Fails to Comply With a Building Order Over Pergola A Hoppers Crossing homeowner who failed to ensure a pergola complied with a building order has been given a two-year good behaviour bond, without conviction, in the Werribee Magistrates’ Court.

The court found the man did not complete the work required under the building order and did not have it inspected by the relevant building surveyor within the required timeframe.

The man was also ordered, under the Building Act 1993 (the Act), to bring the pergola into compliance.

Magistrate Jennifer Grubissa said the penalty of a good behaviour bond without conviction took into account the homeowner’s previous good record, his cooperation with the VBA investigation and the fact he was taking all reasonable steps to bring the structure into compliance.

The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) charged the homeowner for breaching the Act over the building order. The relevant building surveyor referred the matter to the VBA after the man did not comply with the building order, which required the pergola to comply with the building permit that had been issued in April 2014.

The building surveyor told the court the homeowner had failed to take any action after having been issued with a building order in April 2016. When he received no further information from the man, the building surveyor referred the matter to the VBA in July 2016.

VBA Chief Executive Officer, Prue Digby, said that ensuing building work complies with the building permit provides assurance buildings are safe and meet minimum standards.

“It is also important that people having building work done familiarise themselves with their legal obligations in the process, including in relation to building orders and building notices,” Ms Digby said.

“Familiarise yourself with your project and your responsibilities and contact the relevant building surveyor if you are unable to get responses from your builder.

“Whatever you do, don’t ignore building notices or building orders issued to you by the relevant building surveyor.”

Jetmaster Site Visit Wednesday, 17 May 2017 See and learn about some of Jetmaster’s stunning fireplace designs and enjoy Jetmaster’s hospitality while talking about their fireplace products.

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BUSHFIRE ASSESSMENTS

Keystone Alliance Bushfire Consultancy was born out of the requirements for building design and construction in designated Bushfire Prone Areas as a result of the “Black Saturday” fires of 2009.

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Here’s What Our Customers Say: “It is great to be able to rely on an expert in such an important area. We have found Keystone Alliance Bushfire Assessments to be quick and reliable in the delivery of their service” Ann West - Abcad Design

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Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

Reducing Bushfire Risk with Innovative Technology The Victorian State Government is using innovative energy solutions to help keep communities safe from bushfires.

The $750 million Powerline Bushfire Safety Program is providing Stand-Alone Power System (SAPS) grants to targeted landowners in selected regional areas who opt-in to the initiative.

“By permanently removing high risk powerlines, the risk of bushfires started by powerlines will be significantly reduce,” said Acting Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change, Lisa Neville.

increasing the reliability of their energy supply.

The SAPS grant will consist of renewable energy such as wind and solar panels, batteries for storage and back-up generators.

It’s part of a range of technology solutions, such as undergrounding and insulation, which will be used to replace or remove high risk powerlines in bushfire prone areas.

Properties at the end of high voltage powerlines in the most acute bushfire-risk locations will be given the opportunity to go off the grid, by installing a SAPS.

Following the devastating 2009 Black Saturday bushfires, the Victorian Government has implemented a range of measures that came out of the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission, one of these being the Powerline Bushfire Safety Program.

By choosing to go off the grid, these properties at the end of the line will allow the remaining powerline to be shorter, reducing bushfire risk, as well as

The Program was established in 2012 as a 10-year program to significantly reduce bushfire risk associated with Victoria’s electricity distribution network.

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Changes to the Domestic Building Contract Regulations As of 1 August 2017, the following changes to the Domestic Building Contract Regulations will occur: The monetary threshold for a Major Domestic Building Contract will increase from $5000 to $10,000; The minimum value of a Cost Plus Contract will increase from $500,000 to $1 million; and Builders will need to ensure that progress payment schedule 1 is updated to reflect change to Form 1 and Form 2 (updated Master Builders contracts will be available for sale closer to the date).

Other minor changes have been made to the wording of the contract regulations.

Source: MBAV

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30

BDAV NEWS

Need someone to conduct an energy rating for you?

Use a BDAV Accredited Thermal Performance Assessor!

Legislation in several Australian states requires that all domestic construction submitted for building permit approval must demonstrate compliance with energy efficiency requirements. One method for demonstrating this compliance is through the use of software accredited under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). In New South Wales, the BASIX thermal comfort protocol also applies. NatHERS is a star rating system (out of ten) that rates the energy efficiency of a home, based on its design.

The BDAV is a government-appointed assessor accrediting organisation for thermal performance assessors and has many accredited assessors as BDAV Members.

TPAs accredited through the BDAV are committed to a code of conduct that sets minimum professional standards and responsibilities.

To find an assessor for your rating requirements, go to www.bdav.org.au

Building Designers Association of Victoria PO Box 174, Carlton South VIC 3053 P (03) 9416 0227 E info@bdav.org.au www.bdav.org.au

Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

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Global First for Melbourne Manufacturing Victoria’s manufacturing sector is set for a boost with the opening last month of a world-leading high performance insulation manufacturing facility at Somerton, in Melbourne’s north.

The $40 million plant is the most technically innovative and energy efficient facility yet for the Kingspan Group which leads the world in the manufacture of high performance, rigid board insulation.

The new 14,000 square metre facility is located in the City of Hume where Ford Australia shut down local production in 2016. The Kingspan plant has already created 26 new jobs with another 24 people to be employed as production ramps up.

The new jobs include production and warehouse positions and trainee positions in chemical engineering and information technology as well as sales, management, operations and administrative support.

expected to grow to 35 per cent by 2020.

The plant construction was awarded a $3 million grant from Melbourne’s North Innovation and Investment Fund, set up by the Victorian Government in partnership with the Federal Government and Ford Australia.

“The market for high performance insulation is growing rapidly around the world in response to government policies aimed at making buildings more energy efficient. This facility gives Australia world leading technical capability in a sector experiencing significant sustained domestic and international growth.”

The Victorian minister for industry and employment, the Hon. Wade Noonan MP; Irish ambassador Breandán Ó Caollaí and Kingspan Group chief executive Gene Murtagh will officially open the facility today at 2.30pm. The Hon. Josh Frydenberg MP will also be in attendance and speak on the day.

Frank McGuire MP State Member for Broadmeadows, Parliamentary Secretary for Medical Research, Parliamentary Secretary for Small Business and Innovation, Ros Spence MP State Member for Yuroke and Kingspan Insulation Australia Managing Director Scott Gibson are also attending.

Kingspan Insulation Australia, a division of the Kingspan Group, is Australia’s leading supplier of high performance insulation. Mr Gibson says Kingspan Australia will now not only be able to supply insulation products made in Australia but also export throughout the Asia Pacific region with 20 per cent of production already scheduled for export. This is

Mr Murtagh says the Somerton manufacturing facility is the first fourthgeneration Kooltherm manufacturing site in the world, using the group’s latest technical innovations in its manufacturing processes.

Kingspan Kooltherm is a super high performance rigid thermoset phenolic insulation with ultra-low conductivity for roofs, walls and floors. It offers exceptional thermal and fire performance and its ultra-thin profile allows for more internal floor space to be created due to thinner walls.

Mr Murtagh says Kingspan places a high priority on net zero energy manufacturing and aims to meet the energy requirements of it 100-plus manufacturing sites around the world through renewable energy by 2020. It currently meets approximately 60 per cent of energy requirements.

The Somerton facility was designed by architect Tone Wheeler, a leader in environmentally sustainable design in Australia. It has a 750kW solar system designed into its roof structure which, when installed, will provide most of its daytime shift energy requirements. It also uses Kingspan’s energy saving smart lighting system and was constructed using high performance Kingspan insulation products throughout to significantly reduce energy requirements and optimise comfort and safety for employees.

The facility was built using sustainably sourced or manufactured building materials,

uses energy renewing ventilators that provide occupants with 100 per cent more fresh air than required by the building code and harvests rainwater for bathroom and landscape use.

The Kingspan Insulation plant at Somerton is on track to be Australia’s first Green Star rated manufacturing facility.

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32

BDAV NEWS

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Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

33

Lifehouse Designs Successful Sustainable Home Wanting to create a sustainable home and workspace that complemented the ruggedly beautiful environment of Victoria’s Goldfields region led homeowner Kay to a new style of building.

As a chef, food stylist and artist living in the historic town of Castlemaine, Kay bought a small stone house on acreage that she planned to extend in order to run cooking classes. However, the project became more complicated when she realised she wasn’t happy with her architect’s ideas for the extension.

A chance win at a local arts festival set Kay on a new path with sustainable housing company Lifehouse Design.

“I wanted the house to be as environmentally friendly as possible and because it was after the 2009 bushfires, we obviously had much more stringent bushfire regulations to meet,” says Kay. “I was really impressed with Lifehouse’s approach, but I’ve never lived in a new house and I had concerns the new part of the building wouldn’t fit in or wouldn’t look comfortable in its environment.”

The design brief called for a building material that would connect seamlessly with the surrounding bush backdrop while blending beautifully with the home’s preexisting stone palette - BareStone hit the mark.

A sustainable home that works with the natural environment Lifehouse Design’s philosophy is to create simple, serene buildings “that remind us of our connection to the natural

world”. The company’s award-winning LiFEHOUSE concept allows owners to personalise their home design in a number of ways to suit the orientation of the land, number of rooms required, external finishes, outdoor living spaces and interior joinery preferences.

The LiFEHOUSE concept was developed to minimise waste during the construction process, while materials and finishes that require minimal or no coating or finishing are used, saving on resources and maintenance.

Cemintel’s BareStone cement sheet cladding meets this brief perfectly. The external pre-finished cladding system consists of 9mm compressed panels that are lightweight and easy to install.

BareStone combines the look of raw cement with the safety and practicality of a low combustible cladding, making it ideal for bushfire prone areas.

“I’d seen the other structures Lifehouse designed using BareStone and I really warmed towards it,” says Kay. “The cladding is great because you don’t have to paint it, and the ExpressWall system it is installed on meets insulation standards and fire requirements. It is far more affordable than building with stone.”

“Now that the cladding has been fully installed I couldn’t be happier. It’s got a mottled look and the shadows cast on it are beautiful.”

“I think it softens into the environment, which I didn’t expect it to. People often comment on how nicely it fits in with the landscape. The property can be seen up from the road through the bush which

is why it can be quite eye catching and people actually slow down to view it.”

The challenge of adapting to an existing building “One main challenge of the build was cutting holes in the stone wall to join the original house with the extension – it was a foot thick stone,” says Kay. “I think the Cemintel product blended very well with the colour of the stone because that was a crucial thing – it’s completely Castlemaine rock. Even though the structure is quite different, the colour merges with the rock very well, far better than with brick or anything else.”

Project builder, Ian Flavel from Built Collective, says it was a challenging build but the end result was an impressive and easy finish.

“In this particular case the design wasn’t a pure rectangle, so there was Continued on page 42.....

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10- Star Case Study

BDAV NEWS

Paradigm Shift Sustainability House won the BDAV’s 2017 10-Star Sustainable Design Challenge for their Paradigm Shift submission. We asked Sustainability House for an insight into the project.

The BDAV set the challenge to design a residential dwelling that achieves 10 Stars under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Software (NatHERS). Ten stars is the maximum that can be achieved under this rating protocol. Our team of designers and energy efficiency consultants at Sustainability House not only rose to the challenge, but came out on top!

Identifying a need within the current market to demonstrate that sustainable design does not have to be limited to those with deep pockets and thermally comfortable and efficient housing can be attainable on a limited budget, the design of Paradigm Shift was realised.

Design Snapshot In order to promote a change in the approach to our housing typology, this design responds to market demand for aesthetics and generous proportions, while achieving innovative passive design strategies and delivering affordability.

Versatility is achieved through minimum 920mm wide doorways for wheelchair access and a flat framed roof structure engineered to support the loads of an additional level, providing adaptability for a growing family. Optimal air tightness plays a crucial role in achieving superior building quality and thermal performance.

From native plantings to the internal finishes, the focus on sustainability is carried throughout the design enabling Gold Standard to be achieved using the eTool Life Cycle Assessment, ensuring the embodied energy and Greenhouse Gas

Emissions are minimised. The build cost is estimated at $386,854.

The Performance Passive design strategies coupled with the material specification results in this dwelling, that has no heating and cooling, maintain thermal comfort (between 18-24 degrees) for 91% of the year. This is in comparison to the same home built to the current Australian Benchmark, which is in comfort only 63% of the time.

The Details Orientation: We start with the most important aspect first, how to make the best use of the northern sun to passively heat the house. As this house is located in Adelaide, a temperate climate, ensuring the house is warm in winter and shoulder seasons is a priority as this affects comfort for a good portion of the year. However it is also important to consider and balance the design for high peak summer temperatures as well.

To make best use of the East to West orientated suburban site, the house is situated close to the Southern boundary with the garden area running along the North. This is to ensure the greatest distance between the house and the Northern neighbour and fence to reduce any impact of overshadowing that will thus reduce our solar gains.

The main living area and bedrooms sit to the North, with utility areas such

as bathrooms on the South. Most of the windows are located on the Northern façade as well, with all other windows on other facades kept to a minimum. The Master Bedroom has been set apart from the garage to facilitate Northern solar access as well.

Layout and Zoning: Key to achieving better thermal performance and subsequently improving the NatHERS star rating is to keep it simple. Reducing the number or rooms, particularly limited use corridor space, and the overall size of the house will result in improved energy efficiency and thermal comfort. This design does away with the typical bedroom/bathroom passage by having the bedroom entrances discretely off the corner of the living space and the bathroom doorway obscured by a timber post screen.

The addition of an airlock at the entry, not only reduces the transfer of external air in and out as people enter and exit the house, but also provides that intermittent space (so you are not walking straight into the kitchen/living) without compromising the design with the addition of a corridor.

Other ways the design has been kept simple with only 7 defined rooms, is to have larger bedrooms capable of adaptability, combining spaces like study nooks and robe storage rather than having multiple single use spaces like gyms and walk-in-robes. The design has also opted for a European style cupboard laundry in the kitchen.

Separation of the garage as a carport instead also removes the impact this room has on the envelope of the house itself which can assist in improving the thermal performance.

Physical Form and Shading: A streamlined form with no eaves to keep the aesthetic modern, however with careful consideration of additional shading. Fixed window shrouds with adjustable external blinds concealed within are provided to East/West facing windows in the bedrooms to combat low incidence sun angles. A small verandah protects the West facing wall of Bed 2 from harsh summer sun.

Integral to the passive design strategy of the house is the adjustable horizontal shading in the form of a Vergola (adjustable louvres) provided to the full width of the northern façade.

10- Star Case Study

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

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Paradigm Shift (continued) This maximises solar gains in winter by allowing the windows to be larger without compromising the summer comfort as these can then be fully shaded.

This adjustable factor is import as fixed alfresco areas that are currently the status quo, make it difficult to achieve optimum comfort in both winter and summer. A similar result could also be achieved by in expensive deciduous vine covered pergola.

Building Fabric: So then we move along to the construction and building fabric of the dwelling. Our approach has been to remain as conventional as possible but to provide a high level of internal thermal mass with a highly insulated envelope.

This allows the warmth and coolth to be stored within the thermal mass and not to escape through the highly insulated envelope.

We start with a conventional concrete slab on ground, left exposed to take full advantage of the thermal mass. Once carpets and timber floor coverings are added this reduces the performance of the slab as a thermal mass element as they essentially start to insulate the slab from above.

Now to the walls: These are the most unconventional construction in the dwelling as we have proposed Reverse Brick Veneer. You can see the cross section of this below, it’s the same as what we are used to seeing but backwards. Timber clad externally on a top hat to provide an air

cavity for the antiglare reflective foil to work correctly (given reflective foils only work when provided with an adjacent air space). Insulation forms a crucial part of the fabrics performance. Our approach is based on the South Australian insulation manufacturer Thermaloc. 40mm rigid polystyrene is fixed to the outside of the stud. This combats thermal bridging, providing unbroken continuous insulation and air barrier around the envelope. Then you have your insulation in the stud and internal brick work.

We have left this exposed in some areas but mostly lined with plasterboard.

All internal walls are also single leaf brick to provide thermal mass to regulate the internal temperatures.

There is a standard metal sheet

roof with high performance R6.0 ceiling batts and reflective roof blanket under the sheeting. In a temperate climate like Adelaide it is not preferable to have a dark roof, although this might appear to help in winter, it could cause overheating on harsh summer days, so we have left this as light in colour.

Windows: If you get only two aspects right in a design, make it the orientation and glazing. Our design features high performance uPVC framed argon filled double glazing with low emissivity film. Window performance is crucial in achieving good performance in the dwelling as we often say windows are like holes in your walls. In order to achieve the balance of having windows large enough to take in enough solar gains in winter to heat the house, it is therefore imperative to ensure this heat is not then lost back out the window. uPVC frames, although an up-and-coming product in Australia, are a great option as they are thermally broken and durable, not requiring the maintenance of timber frames.

Building Sealing: Detailed 3D geometric modelling during the design stage determined the optimal air leakage rate for the building fabric and services. It was determined that the optimal air leakage rate was 0.35 air changes per hour (ACH), this optimal rate will vary based on climatic location and ventilation and can be updated at design stage. Whilst the dwelling could Continued on page 37.....

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10- Star Case Study

Paradigm Shift (continued) be designed to a lower air change rate, it would then require mechanical ventilation assistance to maintain indoor environmental quality.

Collaboration of the project team in the design phase with focus on key areas such as air barriers, services, intermittent ventilation and internal finish is crucial to ensure the desired ACH rate is achieved.

System and Services: All electric with no gas connection, utilising a combination of 5kW solar PV, Tesla Powerwall battery storage, 325L electric heat pump hot water system and induction cooktop, reduces the dwellings dependency on grid infrastructure.

Furthermore 12,000L of slimline rainwater tanks are plumbed to facilities and positioned along southern boundary for thermal mass and sound resistance.

AuziMax web based building monitoring system monitors temperature, water, humidity and CO2, whilst controlling and distributing available energy usage.

The online AuziMac smartdashboard allows owners to monitor usage and identify savings.

The narrow building footprint and strategic positioning of ventilation openings, assisted by ceiling fans, allow cross flow ventilation. The AuziMax system monitors Indoor Environmental Quality, prompting alarms when natural ventilation is required. In addition zero VOC paints, glues and floor treatments improve IEQ.

eTool Lifecycle Assessment: An eTool assessment was conducted on the design, which is a preliminary Life Cycle Assessment, to determine how well the house performs in terms of greenhouse gas emissions over the whole life of the project. The design achieves Gold status, however it very nearly got to Platinum, which is the highest score. The main obstacle to getting into the Platinum category was the significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions associated with brick, which we have used extensively bit for the purpose of thermal mass. That element therefore is a bit of a compromise to achieve better thermal comfort and lower operational costs of the dwelling.

Sustainability House would like to thank BDAV for facilitating this competition, and for encouraging consideration of sustainability and passive design strategies in residential construction.

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

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38

BDAV NEWS

You’re good to go with a BDAV Engagement Agreement

Locking down an engagement agreement early in the piece is important in getting the green light to proceed safely with your client’s project.

The BDAV’s Engagement Agreement is a respected industry standard that safeguards the Designer’s relationship with their Client.

Available only to Full Members of the BDAV via a one-off subscription (which includes any future updates), this excellent document, supplied electronically with license to reproduce as many times as required, covers the full needs of all building design projects, including payment of fees, disbursements, engagement of consultants, copyright, materials and indemnity, nomination of consultants, disputes resolution process, and much more.

The BDAV Engagement Agreement has been highly praised by BDAV Members.

It was developed by the BDAV’s former Executive Officer, whose legal background and 40 years’ background in the building industry provided him with a solid understanding of the industry’s needs.

Orders may be placed online, at the webshop at the BDAV’s website – www.bdav.org.au – but remember to log-in as a Member before accessing the webshop, as this item is only visible to Full Members.

Phone: (03) 9416 0227 Fax: (03) 9416 0115 Email: info@bdav.org.au www.bdav.org.au

Industry News

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

39

Brighton Meets the Hamptons Classic design and detailed finishes take centre stage at Porter Davis Brookwater display home As councils around Australia continue to tighten residential building guidelines, making it increasingly difficult for homeowners to navigate the building and renovating process, luxury home builder Porter Davis has embraced the challenge and created The Brookwater. A unique display home design in Brighton, Victoria, The Brookwater adheres to complex building and planning laws and integrates building materials that offer performance and style to residential design.

Working with the local Bayside City Council, engineers and local suppliers, the elegant Hamptons-style design in Melbourne’s popular beachside suburb included regulations on surrounding wall heights, the distance of house setbacks and boundary walls. “These regulations impacted on the size and scale of the project,” says Patrizia Romeo, Interior Designer for Porter Davis. “This in turn has resulted in elements such as the vaulted ceiling in the lounge and dining spaces that give the house a feeling of light, space and grandeur.”

A combination of modern, sophisticated design alongside exquisite materials and luxe accents, the Porter Davis Brookwater display home is inspired by the classic and popular Hamptons interior style, which focusses on a neutral colour palette, soft lines and bright, breezy spaces flooded with natural light.

“Inspired by the summer retreats of New York’s elite, yet tailored with Australian home buyers in mind – the classic Hamptons style is one of timelessness and sophistication,” says Ms Romeo. “Paired with the divine Long Island façade, the Brookwater will have its owners feeling like they’ve been whisked away to a luxe seaside resort.”

The key to Hamptons-style interior is layering, explains Ms Romeo. “Classic Hamptons is all about detail and layering, with every piece meticulously chosen to tell a story,” she says. “The style creates a beautiful balance between being soft and relaxed, while simultaneously breathing elegance.”

To perfect the Hamptons style, Ms Romeo looked to high-quality brands like Corinthian Doors. “One only needs to see the front door to know something special lies beyond,” she says. “Making a great statement from the curb, the Corinthian front door and sidelight, the Windsor, features a luxe white gloss finish, a polished chrome door handle and exquisite glass panelling.”

Ms Romeo explains that the Windsor front door was selected for its simple detailing but ‘wow’ factor, perfectly complementing the Hamptons aesthetic of air and light. “It’s a statement door and it’s about being generous and luxurious with space and light,” she says.

Featuring a striking paint finish; solid construction utilising traditional joinery stile and rail construction, solid timber panels and precision flush joints – the Corinthian Doors Windsor collection is ideal for traditional or modern building projects.

As well as the impressive entrance door, Ms Romeo says the Corinthian Moda internal doors are just as beautiful and were selected for their highquality construction and finish and to complement the elegant atmosphere of the house.

Giving a feeling of opulence, the shaker-style Moda internal doors seamlessly blend in with the classic Hamptons scheme where panelling and detailed woodwork is used extensively.

“In our Classic styled homes, the doors provide a timeless backdrop to the furniture and decor, as well as connecting the space with the other woodwork used in the detailing of the home,” explains Ms Romeo. “We like to use doors with subtle detailing in their profile, painted in high gloss white and with polished chrome handles.”

Moda internal doors are based on the design ethos of pairing things back to the bare necessities. The result being strong, timeless and simple designs that gracefully complement soft and relaxed interior styles such as Porter Davis’ charming Brookwater home design. ....Continued on page 42

Industry recruitment specialists for Architects, Building Designers, Property Developers and Interior Designers Remuneration advice, market updates, expert knowledge, permanent, temporary and contract recruitment.

Phone 03 9349 1055 www/bloomfieldtremayne.com.au

40

Graduates

BDAV NEWS

Get designs on your future.

If you’re a Graduate of Building Design or Interior Design, why not consider a Graduate Membership of the Building Designers Association of Victoria. It’s a great pathway to ensure your future career plan or vision comes true.

Amongst other benefits – including free job listings – BDAV Graduate Membership enables you to network with practitioners running their own design practice – who could be your future employers.

To see what your future holds, go to www.bdav.org.au or contact the BDAV at info@bdav.org.au

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

Job Market

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Job Market Full-time Building Designer Required Small design office located in Thomastown is looking for a full-time employee efficient in using Revit and AutoCad to complete a range of work from town planning design, working drawings and detailing for residential projects. A good understanding of ResCode, NCC and attention to detail is required. Immediate start for the right candidate. Please send a resume to info@ cabuildingdesign.com.au.

Building Designer/Revit We are a small residential design office in Northcote. We require someone that can take on new clients and liaise directly with them. Offering a short term contract: 3 months with an option to extend, casual/part-time (20-30 hours a week).

You will be required to produce concept designs - working drawings. You must have Revit experience and strong client liaison skills. Please email your resume to md@meshdesignprojects.com.au or contact Matthew Duignan on 0400 438 295.

Draftsperson Required Belco Group is a boutique sized firm located in the Geelong region completing many different projects nationwide. An innovative, flexible working environment creates excellent cohesion between staff and the way we approach work.

‘Out of the box’ thinking is encouraged and promotes for better and happier workplaces where staff feel ownership and are recognised for their input. We are seeking an enthusiastic draftsperson willing to diversify their skills in many areas, including design, drafting, admin, surveying and energy rating. Skills required for the job are experience with AutoCAD and most Microsoft packages.

If experienced with Revit, Adobe and FirstRate5 this will be a bonus. Good knowledge of the Building Code and ResCode is also preferred. This position may be ideal for a graduating student wanting to get a chance in their first job.

Annual salary will be based on skills and experience. Please send your resume, cover letter and an example of your work to cam@belcogroup.com.au.

Design Staff Required SACBW seeks a suitably experienced Graduate Building Designer or Graduate Architect with a minimum of 12 months experience and a Building Designer or Architect with minimum 2

years of experience to join our multidisciplinary practice to undertake design, documentation of all facets of commercial and residential design and diverse projects. Candidates will be passionate about design, with the ability to effectively resolve design details and documentation challenges. Technical proficiency is required in AutoCAD, Revit/SketchUp as well as an understanding of ResCode and the BCA. Good communication skills, writing and documentation skills. The right candidates will be offered a full-time position. An immediate start is available to the successful applicants. Please email resume to inquiries@sacbw.com.

Retail Designer/Interior Documentation Progressive design firm specialising in retail and hospitality interiors located northern CBD fringe requires an exceptional Interior Designer/Building Designer/Architect with a minimum of 5 years’ working on interior and architectural design and documentation. Contract position with long-term opportunities.

Experience working on the design and documentation of fashion retail and eateries is highly regarded. You must be an all-rounder, as you will work across all stages of a project from initial concept, detailed documentation to roll-out. You may be required to design and document retail and hospitality stores and custom joinery for various projects from small one-off cafes, boutique brands to large scale national retailers. An understanding of the BCA and Australian Standards is essential, as is experience working with SketchUp for Concept Design, and Revit and AutoCAD. Experience using Adobe Creative Suite for graphics and presentation documentation is desirable.

Applications to mail@metaspace.com.au.

Thermal Performance Energy Assessor Required We seek a qualified Thermal Performance Energy Assessor to fill a short-term role as a sub-contractor, with potential of further work. Must be accredited and have experience at rating simple and complex jobs. Must have very good IT skills. Must be a hard worker, self-motivated and able to work well autonomously. Good rates available for the suitable candidate. Please contact Karim Ghobrial from Efficient Energy Choices on 0414 430 046 to enquire about this role.

Architectural Draftsperson (Part-Time) Small growing architectural firm based in Dandenong, specialising in commercial, residential and industrial developments, requires a motivated applicant who has at least 2-3 years’ workplace experience. Due to an increasing client base, a position has become available for an architectural draftsperson with a sound knowledge of the relevant statutory requirements.

Must be proficient in AutoCAD, building and town planning documentation and have excellent communication skills.

Construction documentation/detailing is essential and ideally some exposure to 3D-rendering would be advantageous.

A highly motivated person looking to further develop their knowledge base, whilst being part of a growing firm, is encouraged to apply. Please email your resume to michael@designm.net.au.

Architect/Draftsperson Established CBD based specialist practice, expanding through the establishment of a Mt Eliza office to service the Mornington Peninsula region.

We specialise in high end architectural documentation, with focus on single and multi-residential projects, to provide a niche service to residential stakeholders who are building on the Peninsula. We seek an Architect/ Draftsperson with sound knowledge in local building construction who has solid experience and understanding of architectural documentation with strong skills in AutoCAD and/or Revit software.

Local town planning approval process experience will be a valuable asset.

The successful candidate will be based full-time at the Mt Eliza office and will be supported by the business Principal and management. If you fit the criteria, please e-mail your CV to admin@mod3.com.au.

Student Architectural Draftsperson (P/T) Docklands-based architecture and interior design firm, Dig Design, seeks a part-time student architectural draftsperson with an eye for detail willing to learn fast and on the run. Our small office works on both commercial and residential projects, so we need someone with good communication skills and an enthusiastic attitude. You must know AutoCAD but also be willing to perform administrative tasks when required.

The ideal applicant should be currently studying in an applicable course, fluent in AutoCAD and Revit, an enthusiastic and proactive learner, able to follow instruction and develop further with self-guidance. If you are this person, please forward your CV to enquiry@digdesign.net.au.

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Industry News

BDAV NEWS

Brighton Meets the Hamptons (continued from page 39) For the colour palette, Ms Romeo explains that a Hamptons styled home features soft neutrals, calming neutral tones of white-on-white, textural greys and light oak timbers. Coastal influences with summer patterned tones of duck egg blue, lemon and traditional stripes are also present in the interiors, adding to the effortless sophistication of the design.

“The combination of these colours and textures add layers of detail to the home and a sense of grandeur often seen in the Hamptons homes.”

Describing Brighton as ‘Melbourne’s nearest answer to the Hamptons, Romeo says the affluent bayside suburb similarly combines the proximity to the bay, majestic properties, high-end shopping and dining – just as they do in the Hamptons. “Brighton is also an area in which many Melbournians spend their summer weekends, whilst a minority are

lucky to live there, making it the perfect waterside suburb to best represent the Hamptons-style,” she/he says.

Another area in which Brighton shares similarities to the Hamptons is its strict building code. “Wall height restraints pushed the upper level of the double storey home 3.5 metres off the side boundaries and we also had to work with side boundary setbacks that are 1.5 metres greater than Victorian ResCode,” explains Ms Romeo. “This meant we had, at a minimum, three metres less land to use than a similar sized block in another municipality, creating design challenges to ensure the upper level felt substantial and not too narrow and long.

We overcame this by building over the garage and tailoring the façade design.”

For the lovers of the elegant soft and airy style, Ms Romeo

Lifehouse Designs project..... Continued from page 33 actually a fair bit of work to match the angles in the design of the extension,” says Ian. “In terms of the look, I really liked it. I thought using the BareStone was really effective for creating the vision Lifehouse were aiming for, and it was very practical because of the bushfire rating. Once we’d laid it there was nothing else to be done to it – no painting or render – so it did cut down the finishing time.”

A passive, robust home that feels unique and inviting BareStone is installed with the Cemintel Expressall® system. This system provides a ventilated cavity structure that enables air gaps between stud walls and external cladding to maximise insulation and improve thermal performance. The

CeminSeal technology also prevents water from penetrating into the panel, providing the home with a weathertight, durable, cladding system.

“The insulation is excellent,” says homeowner Kay. “It really contains the cool in summer and warmth in winter even though it’s quite an open house. I think I only used the air conditioning once last year.

“I aim to run cooking classes here, so I wanted something that was nice for people to come and visit and I feel like we’ve definitely achieved that with this house. I was worried about trying something new, but I absolutely love it.”

Go to www.cemintel.com.au for more information about Cemintel’s BareStone cladding.

suggests keeping furniture in neutral tones and layering colour and pattern through cushions, throws and feature furniture pieces, such as an occasional chair – which she says in integral to a lounge area. Furthermore, look to white linens, home accessories like oversized lamps, coastal themed artwork and paisley patterned linen to complete the look,” says Ms Romeo. “If possible, walls should also echo a warm grey tone, surrounded by crisp, white skirting boards.” And of course, don’t’ forget the most important thing – open doors and windows to allow that crisp sea breeze and warm sunshine to fill the space.

How to Achieve the Hamptons Style Structural design elements include coffered ceilings, dado panelling, high detailed skirting and high panelled doors.

Details are second to none with the Classic Hamptons style, which features ornate internal door hardware in polished chrome and decorative, handpicked cabinetry handles.

A soft grey wall colour and fresh coastal white like Wattyl White on the woodwork will give the perfect backdrop to furniture and soft furnishings.

Flooring in the Classic Hamptons home is a focal point – large, wide floor boards with create an aged yet elegant feel.

The carpet is usually sisal, but a luxury wool-based version will work too. As long as it delivers that wonderful soft texture on bare feet.

With window treatments, introduce soft Roman shades, shutters and curtains in more formal styled spaces.

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BDAV membership is the ultimate designers ‘must have’.

V O L 2 2 E D I T I O N 4 M AY 2017

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Membership Benefits include: • Belong to a true non-profit Association • Monthly Journal: BDAV News • Weekly eNews • Winning Design Magazine • Member updates • Continuing Professional Development: comprehensive program of seminars, workshops, webinars, and regional meetings • Documents for building projects: – project specifications – engagement agreements – indemnity documents – standard form contracts for residential and non-residential projects • Reference material, including a great suite of Practice Notes, Advisory Notes, and much more • Free* advice on matters including copyright, contracts, wages and conditions, legislative and regulatory requirements, etc • Access to Professional Indemnity Insurance through our preferred insurance agent • Accreditation for Thermal Performance Assessors and Home Sustainability Assessors • Lobbying and Representation • Annual Building Design Awards to promote your skills as a designer • Annual 10 Star Challenge to promote knowledge of energy efficiency principles • Free website listing to generate referrals for your business in Find a Building Designer/Energy Rater

One look inside tells you that being a Member of the Building Designers Association of Victoria entitles you to many member benefits. Advantages such as important information to help you to promote your business, advice* for greater efficiencies, and especially our comprehensive Continuing Professional Development program, will assist you to reap the rewards.

Being a BDAV Member is a sound investment for your business – especially for sole-practitioners, who often work ‘in a vacuum’ and value peer support for advice and guidance.

Phone: (03) 9416 0227 Fax: (03) 9416 0115 Email: info@bdav.org.au www.bdav.org.au *Advice is of an elementary nature. Anything significantly complex should be referred to an appropriate professional advisor.

BDAV is an approved CPD Provider for the Victorian building industry, as administered by Victoria’s Building Commission.

• Free Job Listings for Members seeking staff or Members looking for work • Student Scholarships/Grants/ Awards • Help Desk • Online Member Forum • Access to latest information from the nation’s leading suppliers • Networking • Use of BDAV logo: provides recognition on your website and business stationery and much more!

designing amazing spaces

Building Designers can offer an incredible range of design skills to your project To get in touch with a BDAV building designer, go to www.bdav.org.au