A world-leading 6 Star Green Star Rated building

The Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre (NARC) renewal will provide a state of the art facility with aquatic and fitness/wellness facilities. The aquatic components include an enhanced outdoor 50m pool, 25m indoor lane pool, warm water pool, leisure pool, splash pad and learn to swim pool. The fitness and wellness facilities include multi-purpose spaces for group fitness and yoga, a fitness centre, and consulting rooms for allied health professionals.

Council have committed to achieving a 6-star green star rating in response to The City of Darebin's 2017-2022 Climate Emergency Plan; this is a demanding target for an aquatic centre, which are traditionally very energy-intensive, and has necessitated innovation across all disciplines, including structural and civil. TTW have considered energy use in the choice of materials and specific structural detailing to ensure the building's thermal envelope is not compromised. The civil design adopts best practice stormwater management principles. The timber structure provides sustainability benefits, as well as low maintenance and a welcoming aesthetic.

Mass timber features strongly within the main pool hall, the roof structure is framed with large double Glulam timber beams that conceal ventilation ducts and services. An innovative timber product 'Dowel Laminated Timber (DLT)' is being adopted for the pool hall's structural ceiling, combining structural, acoustic and thermal properties whilst achieving a unique architectural finish.

Materials and systems selected will minimise the carbon footprint during construction and reduce energy use during operation.

Client: City of Darebin

Architect: Warren and Mahoney

Value: $60M

Completion: 2023

Sector: Sports & Leisure

Services: Timber, Structural, Civil