2018 Sustainability Awards finalist: Six Degrees Architects

Clyde Mews consists of 8 dwellings including 6 double storey, family centric, townhouses and 2 units, ranging in size from one to three bedrooms.

The project is a development of two traditional Thornbury housing blocks into medium density housing, and provides an alternative model to the usual car centric development of this type. Instead a model of medium density living is delivered that that prioritises the development of community, shared amenity, sustainability and landscape.

The dwellings have been designed to maximise the site's orientation to provide energy and water efficient residences that are sustainable, comfortable and affordable.

The site features good public and private open space positioned around a central shared space that contains seating and large planter boxes for communal gardening.

The development is well located in the centre of Thornbury, in close proximity to a range of services including transport, retail, and recreational facilities.

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions through energy use is a core component of the overarching vision for Clyde Mews, and a range of measures have been adopted to improve energy efficiency and source energy from on-site renewables.

The project has taken a positive passive design approach to the site, incorporating design features that maximise the natural climatic conditions to improve comfort without the need for mechanical heating and cooling.

The north south orientation facilitates cross flow ventilation throughout the townhouses and units, which allows air to be flushed out naturally.

This orientation also provides excellent daylight access throughout the day. Shading on the northerly windows ensures adequate access to natural light without any unwanted heat gain, particularly in summer. The thermal performance of the dwellings is enhanced with double glazed windows and doors throughout.

The fit-out of the townhouses and units will focus strongly on energy conservation. All appliances, including dishwasher and washing machine will have a minimum 5 star energy rating.

Residents at Clyde Mews will be able to enjoy the benefits of on-site renewable energy generation as soon as they move in. Each townhouse and unit will be connected to a rooftop solar PV system ranging from 1.4kW – 3kW.

The approach to water management at Clyde Mews predominately focuses on minimising water consumption wherever possible. All fittings and appliances, including toilets and washing machines, have a minimum 5-star water efficiency rating.

Reduced water consumption is supported by water recycling on site. A 30,000 litre rainwater tank is installed under the communal garden and will collect rainwater from the roofs of the townhouses and units.

The tank will supply recycled water for the dwellings' toilets and washing machines, and irrigation for the communal areas.

Minimising the impact of stormwater through reducing and slowing runoff is an important component of the project's stormwater approach. The site features a range of permeable surfaces which capture or slow stormwater runoff, reducing pollutants in waterways and minimising the severity of flooding events.

The landscaping also reduces overall temperatures and has positive aesthetic qualities.