Award-Winning Sustainable Design in the Heart of Brisbane
Green Square Apartments
Fortitude Valley | Brisbane | Queensland | Australia
project team
Developer | BHC – Creating Livable Communities
Architect | Cox Architecture
Builder | Walton Construction Queensland
Shire | Brisbane City Council
the intersection of sustainability and urban living
Green Square Apartments has earned international acclaim, including recognition at the prestigious World Architecture Festival and multiple awards from the Australian Institute of Architects for its outstanding commitment to sustainable architecture. Its design excellence has also been showcased on World Landscape Architecture.
Nestled in the heart of Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, this transformative affordable housing project, developed by BHC – Creating Liveable Communities, integrates seamlessly with its urban surroundings. The integration of sustainable features within a highly urbanized environment ensures that residents benefit from both eco-friendly living and urban connectivity.
central atrium green space for living
A focal point of the Green Square Apartments is its central atrium space, which serves as a communal area for residents. This green space is carefully designed to extend between levels, creating a dynamic visual connection throughout the building.
The atrium includes landscape elements that are woven through the internal entries of each apartment, enhancing the sense of openness and connection to nature. Climbing plants, such as Kangaroo Vine (Cissus antarctica), are be placed between levels to introduce greenery and foster a vibrant, natural atmosphere.
indoor environments and resource reuse
The landscaping also features outdoor commercial spaces on the lower levels, designed to enhance the building’s interaction with its surroundings. A plant selection was carefully curated, featuring species such as Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus) , known for its tolerance of indoor environments and shade, providing lush greenery throughout the development.
The design emphasizes sustainability, with an integrated storm water reuse irrigation system throughout the site to support plant life and minimize water usage. The landscape also encourages community connections, offering a variety of spaces where residents can come together while promoting green living.
local area plan context and environment
In line with Brisbane City Council’s Local Area Plan and Landscape Code, the landscape at Green Square Apartments includes comprehensive streetscape upgrades. Footpath works, including approval and certification, ensure that the project integrates seamlessly into the urban fabric.
The “Buildings that Breathe” initiative, released by Brisbane City Council in mid-2016, encourages subtropical building design that harmonizes with Brisbane’s unique climate, promoting sustainability and liveability in urban spaces. Green Square Apartments was the first project in Brisbane to fully embrace this design philosophy, setting a benchmark for future developments in the city.
By aligning with the principles outlined in the “Buildings that Breathe” guide, this project incorporates innovative, sustainable features that enhance both the building’s environmental performance and its residents’ quality of life, marking a significant step forward in urban design for Brisbane.