The One9 building, a 9-floor apartment building was recently built in Melbourne, Australia in just five days. This was possible because the parts needed to construct the One9 building were manufactured off site, though the builders aren’t really calling it modular, since none of the modules are standard or fixed.
The One9 apartment is comprised of a total of 34 one-bedroom and two-bedroom units. The construction process was based on Hickory Group’s UB (Unitized Building) system, which was created by architect Nonda Katsalidis. This is the highest building the group has constructed until now, though they are sure much taller buildings could also easily be built using this method. Their building method is currently being specified on buildings up to 70 storeys.
The One9 apartment is comprised of a total of 34 one-bedroom and two-bedroom units. The construction process was based on Hickory Group’s UB (Unitized Building) system, which was created by architect Nonda Katsalidis. This is the highest building the group has constructed until now, though they are sure much taller buildings could also easily be built using this method. Their building method is currently being specified on buildings up to 70 storeys.
A modular apartment tower that can be erected in less than a week is impressive enough, but building One9 also employs a number of environmentally sustainable features that would alone make it incredibly appealing.
The units in the building are all fitted with double glazed windows that offer superior thermal protection and acoustic performance. The building is also equipped with a grey water recycling system. There is also a rainwater harvesting system in place. Rooftop mounted solar panels provide enough energy to heat the water used up by the residents, while the building is also equipped with a H.W.S system that provides highly efficient water circulation. Energy efficient lighting is installed throughout the building, to conserve energy expenditure. The One9 building also has a 6 Star energy rating.
In an effort to even further reduce the environmental footprint, residents are encouraged to seek alternative transportation methods, such as cycling. To this end, the building has 34 secure bicycle parking spots, as well as a unique and exclusive GreenShareCar, which is an economical, green and easy alternative to car ownership for the residents.
Christine Walsh, Jetson Green, 24 July 2014
