Federation Square, is a major arts and media development in the state of Victoria, Australia. Atelier Ten won an International Design competition with architects LAB Architecture Studio and Bates Smart to environmentally engineer and design the building complex
The scheme embodies a strong commitment to the environment and efficient energy use. The large glazed atrium presented a particular design challenge to eliminate overheating without using cooling. Atelier Ten proposed an innovative solution in the form of the largest thermal labyrinth in the world. This thermal battery captures night cooling to provide temperature reduction on hot summer days without mechanical cooling.
The scheme also includes a central cogeneration plant with absorption chillers for efficient power generation. The heating and cooling plant is located away from the buildings to simplify maintenance.