Australian architecture firm Cox Rayner has designed what will be the country’s first zero-emission and self-powered teaching and research building driven by solar-powered hydrogen energy.

The $32 million Sir Samuel Griffith Building will be built just south of Brisbane in Nathan, one of Griffith University’s satellite campuses.

The solar-panelled glass façade will generate its own power supply while at the same time flaunting its skeletal structure and the 4000m² of usable floor space across its six levels.

What looks like an outlandish blimp-like structure from one angle, the building will include natural ventilation, grey water recycling and advanced water collection.

According to Griffith University’s Vice-Chancellor, the world-class building will offer inspiration to both Australian and overseas communities interested in genuine sustainable energy options.

“This building, which will generate its own power supply, is a model for remote communities that are ‘off-grid’ and cannot access power in Australia and across the world,” Professor O’Connor said.

A $22 million grant from the Australian government will assist in its construction as part of the government’s Education Revolution initiative, aimed at encouraging world-leading infrastructure investments that will transform Australian tertiary education and research.

Cox Rayner
cox.com.au