What sustainable features are integrated into The Greenhouse design?

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Sustainable Features Integrated into The Greenhouse Design

The Greenhouse at Dulwich College (Singapore) incorporates a comprehensive suite of sustainable features, distinguishing it as the first international school building in Singapore to achieve Green Mark Platinum Zero Energy certification under the BCA Green Mark 2021 scheme, complete with Health and Well-being, Intelligence, and Maintainability badges. This design philosophy extends beyond mere energy efficiency to encompass resource optimization and occupant well-being.
Extensive Renewable Energy Production

The building is engineered to generate a significant portion of its energy needs through on-site renewable sources. This includes the strategic integration of Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) that form an "eco-envelope" around the structure, maximising solar panel surface area. Complementing this are innovative energy-generating kinetic floor tiles, which convert the energy from foot traffic into usable power, with the output displayed at the building's entrance. Collectively, these systems achieve over 100% energy savings, offsetting approximately 216 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, an amount equivalent to powering 122 four-room Housing Development Board (HDB) flats.
Superior Energy Efficiency Measures

To minimise energy consumption, The Greenhouse utilises architectural design elements that leverage natural resources. Light shafts and a central atrium are incorporated to facilitate the ingress of natural light and enhance natural ventilation throughout the building, thereby reducing reliance on artificial lighting and air conditioning systems. Furthermore, the building integrates highly energy-efficient technologies and a network of Internet of Things (IoT) sensors. These sensors are connected to a Smart Digital Twin platform, which supports Smart Facilities Management and automates workflows to optimise building performance and further reduce energy usage.
Resource Optimisation and Material Selection

The design prioritises the reduction of the building's overall carbon footprint through careful material selection and water management. Sustainable materials such as SGBP-certified low-carbon concrete and recycled wood have been employed in its construction and interior design. Water conservation is addressed through the use of efficient sanitary fittings and a rainwater harvesting system, which collects and recycles rainwater for irrigation purposes, thereby reducing potable water consumption.
Health and Well-being Enhancements

Beyond environmental sustainability, The Greenhouse features significant enhancements aimed at promoting occupant health and well-being. Greenery and natural elements are integrated throughout the building, from the step atrium to the roof garden, providing occupants with convenient access to nature. To ensure a healthy indoor environment conducive to learning, smart indoor air quality sensors are deployed to continuously monitor and improve air quality within the premises.

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What sustainable features are integrated into The Greenhouse design?

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