grey water purification system, return of storm
water to the wetland system, and energy
efficient glazing and solar shading on the façade.
Wherever possible, natural light to the internal
spaces has been maximised, with large full
height and clerestory windows throughout, with
the exception of certain galleries, further reducing
energy requirements.
Materials
The material palette is raw and honest, primarily
pre-cast concrete, natural timber, granite and
38
glass. These materials provide contrast with the
natural landscape, and take inspiration from the
work of Tadao Ando. The clerestory windows
allow the roof to float above the heavy walls, like
the lid of a box concealing treasures within and
allowing soft indirect natural light to penetrate the
interior spaces.
Externally, the precast concrete is finished with
a chamfered tartan grid, which draws the eye
upwards and lengthways, and emphasises the
scale of the building. Internally timber panelling is
used to bring warmth to the spaces.
The Norval Foundation