Session Synopsis

More than just ways of ensuring privacy or providing shade, window coverings play a crucial role in ensuring that commercial buildings are sustainable. The most recent update to NCC 2019 reflects this fact. Taking two formally separate external components (exteriors walls and glazing) and redefining them as parts of the ‘total facade’, NCC 2019 Section J acknowledges the importance of window coverings in improving thermal performance. Aligned with the COAG National Energy Productivity Plan, it requires commercial buildings to reduce carbon emissions by 30%-40%, compared to NCC 2016.

Architects wishing to comply with (or exceed) this requirement need a good understanding of their window covering options. They need to be able to evaluate them, not only in terms of design and functionality, but also in terms of energy efficiency.

Presenters

Dr. Roberto Minunno. PhD, Curtin University

Roberto’s expertise is the theory and practical implications of applying the circular economy to products and services. He completed his PhD on the circular economy of buildings at Curtin University, where, among other methods, he applies Life Cycle Assessment to building materials and processes. Roberto and his teammates ideated the Legacy Living Lab: a movable, disassemblable modular construction, fostering understandings of the circular economy of building materials, components and operations.

Alison Peach. Queensland Specification Manager, Verosol

Alison Peach has a more than 20 years in the window treatments industry in both residential and Commercial sectors, working B2C and B2B. Alison has a Bachelor of Business (Mgt), and enjoys the opportunity to collaborate and work face to face and end to end to deliver on required project outcomes. Alison has been with Verosol for four years and enjoys being a part of a world leading organisation covering Specification of Performance textiles and products, with wonderful opportunities working on notable projects. The window treatment industry is a specialist niche industry in which Alison strives to continuously develop her skills, knowledge and expertise.

Sarah Tyson. Associate, Hassell

Sarah’s love of people and zest for life is felt as soon as you meet her. She has a knack for focussing on the human needs in every project. Resulting in design outcomes with people’s need at the centre.

Sarah’s skills have been developed by understanding the complex needs and work flows required for health facilities to operate at their best.

Similarly, in workplace projects, she has the ability to extract detailed briefs by working closely with clients to create unique outcomes that really work.

Sarah’s technical ability and organisational skills means that no stone is left unturned. Her project management and delivery skills are exemplary. Sarah is never afraid to pick up the phone to solve problems. She brings joy to every interaction.