(Jeff Provan, Neometro): Yes, it is a little bit difficult to source and install external canvas blinds as they are still not commonly used. There is also the perception that they can only be used on lowrise buildings but I feel comfortable using them on up to 6-storey high buildings. Anything higher than that requires the installation of a wind sensor; otherwise they may getdamaged through strong winds. Generally, I think flexible external shading elements provide many benefits to a building. They provide good shading from harsh summer sun and they provide privacy to occupants. When closed, they provide a sense of protection. And also architecturally they have a lot to offer. Through the changing appearance of flexible sun shading, a building becomes more fluid, it projects its inside to the façade. It adds a texturing layer and softens the appearance of a building that could otherwise look quite commercial.

Yes, most definitely. The louvered windows have only been used for the common area corridors. This way these areas are not only provided with daylight but also natural ventilation. Otherwise, louvers are problematic to use in habitable rooms; at least in Melbourne’s climate.You can’t double glaze them, they leak air and don’t provide good acoustic insulation. The majority of living areas have been fitted with highlight awning windows. That way natural ventilation not only becomes more effective – as hot air rises – but also can be used during any time of the day and night, no matter if it rains or if occupants are at home. So I think both, the high level awning windows and the louvered windows are a worthwhile investment that provides additional amenity to the development.

One of the application’s initial ESD commitments was the construction of a 10kL rainwater tank, connected for toilet flushing and irrigation.

All apartment toilets have been connected to the rainwater tank. In terms of feedback, I don’t think people even notice whether their toilets are flushed with harvested rainwater or mains water as the rain water is filtered and looks just as clean.

Yes, there is some maintenance work required, but really, as long as you choose a quality tank and pump, it’s no drama.

We installed a total of 20m of clothes lines. I guess it encourages people to dry their clothes in the wind and sun, rather than using electrical clothes dryers, which can be very energy consuming. We are pursuing those facilities further in current projects as it is a very easy way to live a bit more sustainable.

Yes, most definitely – a ratio like this should be mandatory. Certainly in an area like Fitzroy, the provided bicycle parking facilities are fully stocked. But we also still have a lot to learn about the way we design bicycle parking areas. Firstly, security is an important topic. Residents want their bikes to be locked in a secure area that only residents can access. And secondly, access is an important topic. Ideally it’s convenient but separate from the main lobby to avoid unnecessary damage and dirt.

Yes, I would like to highlight my experience that when apartments are getting smaller and smaller, amenity gets more and more diminished. The result is commonly that people don’t enjoy living in their building and therefore don’t look after it.