Reflective Energy Efficiency

Auckland’s “sleek” New Zealand Insurance Centre is “one of the city’s most eye-catching and sustainable buildings utilizing energy efficient technology” according to CNN. “Situated on a busy junction, the diagonal glazing that wraps the building in a glass envelope has lent it the nickname ‘The Greenhouse’ and allows the open-plan interior to be bathed in natural light. Between the three layers of glass on the northern side of the building, adjustable shutters are able to cut down on the need for additional heating and cooling. There are also some more ecologically progressive elements, including an elevator that feeds power back into the building’s electricity supply, as it descends through the five floors. Around 80 per cent of the rainwater captured from the green roof, complete with flower beds, is captured and filtered for use as ‘gray water’ in the building’s toilets.”