Datacom, New Zealand’s largest IT service provider, has a new home in the heart of Auckland’s Wynyard Quarter’s Innovation Precinct. The new building successfully weaved green efficiencies into high-tech office design to create a truly modern and sustainable workplace for its 1,200 staff, who is now housed within the same office building for the first time.

The Datacom office boasts sustainable architectural and technological features throughout its 13,500m² office space, spread throughout 5 storeys. Reduction in energy savings was achieved through the use of low VOC furnishings and materials, allowing natural light to flood into the large atrium area of the building. The prominent use of natural wood throughout the office, as well as a sprawling green wall near the reception area, further enhance the green design of the office.

VGT Green Wall system @ level one of the Datacom office, NZ

VGT Green Wall system @ level one of the Datacom office, NZ

Elmich VersiWall® GT (VGT) was used to establish these living green walls which create a warm and welcoming environment for staff and visitors. Manufactured from fully recyclable anodized aluminium, the VGT system is extremely durable and fulfils fire safety requirements for indoor green walls.

Each living wall consists of rows of hook-on pilaster systems attached to the backing wall, onto which the modular trays and irrigation system hook on. The trays are then fastened in place with coupling bolts, preventing the trays from being dislodged accidentally. The modular nature of the VGT allows its extruded pilasters and trays to be easily cut to any length to fit any design requirements. An irrigation system was easily installed and inconspicuously slotted through the irrigation channels of the pilasters. This allows the piping to be hidden behind the plants, ensuring a fully green aesthetic.

The atrium green wall using VersiWall GT system as viewed from above.

The atrium green wall using VersiWall GT system as viewed from above.

Its sustainable architectural design led the Datacom building to be awarded a Five Green Star NZ design rating, New Zealand’s first comprehensive environmental rating system for buildings.

Project Details

Client: Datacom Group Ltd
VersiWall® GT Manufacturer: Elmich Pte Ltd

Read more about the application here

Reference Sites:

https://trendsideas.com/stories/the-datacom-building-combines-contemporary-office-space-with-a-green-agenda