Sustainable Residential Design
Project Overview
MAB has long prioritised environmental sustainability in its projects. Merri Northcote demonstrates this commitment, achieving a certified 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating from the Green Building Council of Australia. The rating recognises initiatives in energy performance, water efficiency, materials selection, transport options and construction practices.
Launched under the Public Housing Renewal Program, the project combines thermal window system, passive solar design and LED lighting with water-saving features, including rainwater reuse, efficient fittings and moisture-sensor irrigation. Homes are fully electric, with induction cooking and centralised electric hot water system, supported by rooftop solar and a site-wide green energy plan.
These benefit both social housing and private residents through greater indoor comfort, reduced reliance on purchased energy and potable water, and transport options including increased bike storage and access to tram, train and buses within 400m of the project.
This project demonstrates MAB’s ongoing commitment to delivering more sustainable outcomes for the communities we create.
Objectives
• Achieve a certified 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating for Merri Northcote.
• Deliver homes with energy-efficient design features that reduce household energy demand and support year-round comfort.
• Reduce reliance on potable water through rainwater harvesting, water-sensitive urban design and efficient fixtures.
• Use specified lower-impact materials and responsible construction practices.
Sustainable Values and Goals Achieved
• Brand Value: Art & Design
• MAB Promise: Sustainable Projects
• ESG Pillar: Environmental – Sustainable Environments (Built Form)
• United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities
Impact and Performance
• Certified 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating achieved for Merri Northcote.
• Provide residents and stakeholders with independent recognition of the project’s sustainability outcomes.
• Energy initiatives include rooftop solar, thermal window system, passive solar design, LED lighting and electric heat pump hot water systems, supporting lower energy demand and improved resident comfort.
• Homes are fully electric, including induction cooking and centralised electric hot water systems.
• Rooftop rainwater harvesting, rainwater reuse, water-sensitive urban design, average five-star WELS fixtures and moisture-sensor irrigation support water efficiency.
• Increased secure bike parking facilities are included to provide residents with additional low-carbon transport options.
• The project also extended its social impact through construction delivery commitments that supported local suppliers and Australian manufacturing.
