This educational facility follows a rigorous ecological design that addresses both local environmental issues and the wider questions of energy conservation, embodied energy, and pollution. The building itself is utilised as a demonstration of good environmental practice:

• The first in the country to employ a ‘breathing’ construction using recycled newspaper insulation

• The orientation of the building is designed to maximise solar gain in autumn, winter and spring

• In summer natural through-ventilation is created and solar shade maximised

• The use of non-toxic paints, stains and floor finishes

The project contains interactive displays and tactile experiences, including a cut away section of the breathing wall.

Total energy consumption is less than 60kWh per square metre per year.

The building was awarded the Community Enterprise Times Environment Award in 1992 and commended in the Green Building of the Year Awards in 1993.