First ‘Green’ Building in Mauritius
The first ‘green’ commercial building in Mauritius: Nautica Commercial Centre, Black River
(from Expatmauritius.com)
It will set new standards in energy efficiency and cost reduction, using technologies that work with the natural environment to reduce energy consumption, lower energy bills and enhance the working environment.
In November 2010, a new concept in retail outlets and commercial offices will be launching in Black River. The Nautica Commercial Centre will be the first ‘green’ commercial building in Mauritius. It will set new standards in energy efficiency and cost reduction, using technologies that work with the natural environment to reduce energy consumption, lower energy bills and enhance the working environment. This is all well and good, but what does it really mean? The terms ‘green’ and ‘eco-friendly’ are being over-utilized, commercialized and merchandized – in short the importance of their true message is being lost. So what makes a building truly green? Contrary to popular belief a green building is not one which stops at minimizing its negative impact on the environment. It also takes into account its impact on our livable space.
Where we work and live is important to us. Our surroundings influence how we feel and how well we work and interact. These factors are taken into consideration when designing a green building. With Nautica, the result is an intimate, attractive and comfortable environment, encouraging leisurely shopping and ensuring repeat business. A vibrant, fresh, eco-friendly working environment is, of course, conducive to a pro-active and productive team.
The various design techniques used to achieve such an environment are:
- Day lighting – natural light is increased throughout with large windows, replacing the need for harsh florescent lights, creating a pleasant working environment, increasing productivity and reducing costs. Any direct sunlight is then filtered. The added advantage is a direct connection to the stunning backdrop of the region’s mountains and sea, inspiring daily reminders of the privilege of living in such a beautiful place.
- Cross-ventilation – natural airflow is captured through the architect’s ingenious positioning of the building, along with the structured curves, which allow a breeze to pleasantly flow through it (essential in this region!). This provides for low maintenance and the reduction of air-conditioning, all the while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.
- Green roof – covering the roof with vegetation cools the building, reduces energy costs, helps clean the air and absorbs sound, so improving the indoor environment (being able to make use of the landscaped space and enjoying the view during afternoon tea is certainly a plus!).
- Rainwater collection – lowering water bills and fostering a connection with nature.
- Special mineral paint – no VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), UV resistant, colourfast and incombustible – provides a safer, healthier indoor environment.
- Recycling – conserves the environment and reduces landfill.
- Biodisc sewerage treatment – safe, community friendly, compact, totally enclosed with low power consumption. Appropriate shading – reduces the effects of the sun, making the environment more comfortable and preserving furnishings for longer, as well as lowering the energy bill.
The Nautica team is extending its environmental responsibility to the maintenance of the historical Black River Post Office, the upgrade of the road in front of the cemetery and the landscaping and maintenance of the immediate areas. Regrettably, in the construction of Nautica, two trees had to be removed. This has sat heavily with the developer, Gimco, and the rest of the team (as we know it has with the Black River community!). We are recycling the wood and having a well-known Mauritian artist craft the planks into benches for the centre.
Should you require more information on the leasing of retail or office space in the centre contact Diane at Sasema Property Services on 746 7414.
