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Landscape Architect: Enviro Links Design Pty Ltd
Location: University Drive South, University of Canberra
Introduction
An objective of the project always envisaged by Jamie Dawson of Enviro Links Design was to be a worthy example of quality design and an environmentally sustainable landscape design, particularly with a Water SUD focus, to inspire and encourage landscape architecture students at the University.
We are proud that this project was undertaken in early 2002 before the drought had fully impacted on the public consciousness and prior to the current WSUD focus. Construction was completed in mid 2003.
The in ground functional success of many of these initiatives are used as established practical examples illustrating the ACTPLA publication “Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) – Guidelines for sustainable development in Canberra” launched in 2006. The project was recognised with the AILA ACTEW 2006 WSUD (Institutional) award. (Which is separate to an AILA Project Award for State or National level).
Landscape WSUD initiatives of rocky overland channels, bio-swales and nutrient stripping features were able to be added to the landscape budget from direct savings in engineering works (e.g. no stormwater piping, sumps and kerbing). Our approach was not to cut corners on the key elements of water sensitive design initiatives as these may never be reintroduced. We recommended substantial planting number reductions of 30% overall with up to 50% in the rear courtyards to save the required funds. This was based on a better to have patience and accept longer for plants to mesh than lose the overall design intent approach, particularly at the rear where the future Stage Two building could assist to reinforce plantings if needed.
On the completion of the carpark construction in March 2003 it was pleasing to be informed by the project Engineer (Rod Weeks of Cardno Young) that our WSUD approach, that they had ably supported, was the “way of the future”.
Select points:
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All planting is native plants with a focus on drought hardiness to lower water consumption and recurrent maintenance demands. A diverse palette of native plants utilised for foliage and flower colour contrast, visual interest and habitat opportunities throughout all seasons.
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The building and the carpark has no stormwater piped links to the city SW network! This allows significant groundwater recharge, offers integrated on site detention features with storm flow retarding intervals and allows significant nutrient and pollutant stripping. This will assist the onsite environment and the downstream catchment.
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The landscape offers habitat diversity with the ephemeral water bodies regularly sustaining fauna.
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Large 150 No. sealed carpark of over 4,000m2: has a water sensitive design / ground water recharge approach of carpark runoff discharging due to flush kerbs to either of the following bio - swales:
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Building Surrounds focussed on Overland Flow not Stormwater Pipe Drainage: The building roof of 2,250m2 is entirely drained through 3 No. syphonic drainage downpipes without any external stormwater pipes or connection to the city SW network. At UCIC our approach was to provide at the two main outlets a succession from overland rocky to grassy channels with integrated water management tools to sustain progressive water velocities.
introduction / overview / images / location / Projects
2008
