Sustainable design for agricultural project

Project: Food Innovation Precinct Western Australia Mereny Bidi Boodja

Award: Education, Bronze, 2023

Location: Stake Hill, Australia

Architect: i2C Architects

Client: The Shire of Murray

The Food Innovation Precinct Western Australia Mereny Bidi Booja is an initiative intended to foster collaboration within the agricultural industry. It provides commercial space for start-up businesses to operate alongside like-minded individuals as well as distinct areas for production and research. 

The design objective: to create a distinctive building that supports a gathering place for all of those working in the project’s commercial innovation, research and production facilities.

In keeping with its rural setting, the striking building blends industrial and agricultural elements. The exterior features exposed steel frames, dark shiplap cladding, natural timber panels, unpolished concrete, brickwork and lush native landscaping.

Design highlights
 
Sustainability is a key focus of the project. The building layout integrates with the neighbouring wetlands, and extensive landscaping, including mature trees, enhances the surroundings. Sustainable timber was used in its construction while thermal glazing and louvers promote natural ventilation and, along with solar PV arrays across the building, help to reduce energy consumption.

Photo credit: Michael Conroy, Silvertone Photography