Burwood Brickworks is quite the sight to behold. The most sustainable shopping centre in the world, the building – designed by NH Architecture and Russell & George – adheres to strict Living Building Challenge guidelines, and sets a precedent for future shopping centre designs, going against the grain of monolithic mega malls and opting for a more honest, genuine approach.

Carbon positive and derived from recycled and sustainable materials, Burwood Brickworks contains features that have never been seen, let alone thought of, for retail centres. It's home to an urban farm that sits on the rooftop, that also contains a quail coop and over 1,000 plants. Lemon trees line the carpark, skylights are a major design trait, and operable windows feature within each tenancy.

When Burwood Brickworkswas announced as the winner of the Commercial Architecture (Large) category for the 2020 Sustainability Awards, it came as little surprise. The vision that was carried out by NH Architecture and Russell & George was good enough to question the principles of retail design, but also saw them awarded the coveted Best of the Best award to go with its Commercial Architecture (Large) victory. 

burwood bricks shopping centre

The 2021 Sustainability Awards asks entrants into the Commercial Architecture (Large) category to submit projects that reside within the Class 5, 6, 7 or 8 building categorisations. It must be used for professional and/or commercial purposes, and must be over 500sqm in floor size, to qualify for the large commercial architecture category, as opposed to the smaller category. While creating commercial buildings that contain the best in sustainable design, these buildings are typically stylistically outstanding, and are very much a drawcard for those that utilise their facilities locally and regionally. 

Interface is the proud sponsor of the Commercial Architecture (Large) award. Specialising in various commercial spaces including offices, healthcare, hospitality and retail, Interface continues to set a precedent for companies around the globe, with their Climate Take Back™ mission focussed around running their business in a way that is restorative to the planet. Encouraging other companies to jump on board, Interface have built their mission around scientific research, and will continue to push themselves and others towards targets that are centred around a climate fit for life.

burwood bricks

With this in mind, it is little wonder that Interface is a sponsor of a commercial award that promotes sustainability of the highest quality. Identical to the design briefs of Burwood Brickworks and future award winners of the Commercial Architecture (Large) category, Interface are set on improving the world around them, and are taking others with them on the ride.

The 2021 Sustainability Awards sees the Commercial Architecture (Large) category up for grabs once more. If your project fits the criteria, we would love to see your submission. For more info, register here.