Fujitsu General Australia has started construction of its new national headquarters at Eastern Creek in western Sydney.

According to the company, the new headquarters will be a 5-star Green Star energy rated building, with Vaughan Constructions appointed to complete the construction of the multi-million-dollar development. 

The 11,000sqm state-of-the-art facility will house Fujitsu General Australia's head office, Fujitsu General Assist and an 8,500sqm distribution warehouse. 

"The development will provide space and resource for Fujitsu General's continued growth in the air conditioning market. The new office design will include a Fujitsu General showroom, on-site gymnasium, auditorium and outside green areas, which will encourage innovation, development and strengthen our 'people first' culture," says Philip Perham, Fujitsu General.

"The building design has a 5-star Green Star rating and follows the company's sustainability philosophy, to ensure we continue to safeguard a rich natural environment for future generations."

Accoridng to Perham, the unique design features of the building include "an onsite gym with shower/locker facilities; parking for electric/energy efficient vehicles; a separate office and warehouse (a first in the surrounding area); natural light entering the main office area from all four sides and internal light wells, which are planted out with greenery and open to the natural elements."

"A double height atrium featuring a spiral staircase, opens up to a large skylight, bringing an abundance of natural light into the core of the building. Hanging planter boxes and timber look louvers on the external facade helps filter the direct sunlight and heat into the building," he says.

"Employees will benefit from covered parking spaces and the warehouse features an internal truck loading area, minimising the amount of time warehouse staff will spend outside in the sun."

The building as well as the fit-out will meet 5-star Green Star standards, says Perham, addding that "light harvesting will take place during the day, as the natural light levels increase, the internal office lights will dim and save energy. Solar hot water will also be utilised for the site."

"All rainwater runoff from the warehouse roof will be reused throughout the site for various purposes. This along with our waste recycling program embodies the sustainability principles of Fujitsu General," he says.

"In addition to the gym, we will have an abundance of natural light throughout the main office floor. An indoor/outdoor covered breakout space, allows employees to work and relax away from the desk."

"Greenery will feature on the external façade, as well as the internal fit-out of the main office area, along with a double story greenery wall. End of trip facilities will be provided for those working out in the gym or cycling to and from work," Perhan says.

Completion of the new headquarters will be by December 2018.