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The Calile Noosa - Peer Review Rev. B 17.08.22
but the soil, sun and water that are necessary for them to thrive. The proposed palette of
materials for this development of stone, masonry and concrete will provide this physical
environment, whilst responding to the subtropical local climate and capturing the essence of
Noosa. The architects share their thoughts on the materials proposed, saying that they
impart a sense of durability and embed the ability to age gracefully: “Charm comes from the
gradual wear of authentic materials…”.
3.9 Working with Nature
“The natural landscape is a significant part of Noosa’s character. Building in harmony with
the natural surrounds is the essential principle:
Work with existing natural features wherever possible rather than viewing them as
obstacles.
Value existing significant trees and incorporate them into designs.
Provide appropriate trees in appropriate locations in all new project designs.
Choose endemic species to suit soil, climate and the situation, so that the life span of trees
is maximised with limited maintenance needed.
Accept that understory plantings will need replacement more regularly.
Replace lost vegetation by planting either elsewhere on site or at other locations.
Use natural materials wherever possible.
Design stormwater systems to filter silt and rubbish before it reaches waterways.
Use rock facing or mass rock walls rather than rendered block or other urban style walls.
Use finishes that bring out the colour and texture of timber elements.
Choose timber types that can fade to grey without requiring high maintenance.
Define edges between different surfaces and gardens to assist with maintenance and visual
appeal.”
Working with nature could also be considered as biophilic design, for which biophilia is
defined as the innate human instinct to connect with nature and other living beings. The
essential principle of building in harmony with the natural surrounds is also one of the key
objectives of the Noosa Biosphere Reserve. The architects for this development have
explained that: “Our climate allows us to live outdoors most of the year. The naturally
ventilated rooms allow guests to share our unique outdoor lifestyle again reinforcing a
sense of place…”
Responding to the natural slope across the site, the proposed design steps with the
topography to connect the floor levels with the ground plane. As pre-existing easements
accommodate the stormwater from both Serenity Close and the properties across the road
to the north, infrastructure is incorporated seamlessly into the design, along with new Rapid
Infiltration Pits to manage and filter overland flow.
The existing vegetation has been surveyed to identify the most significant and mature trees
to retain and respect in the design, whilst proposing appropriate endemic species to
complement the plants within the Reserve. The architects explain that “greenery is
everywhere in their work, trailing building fronts, surrounding the hotel pool, potted in the
restaurant and spilling from balconies... we love how they ground a project…”.
3.10 Wayfinding
Whilst the following principles are primarily for public wayfinding, some of these are
appropriate to consider in this proposal:
“Minimise the number of signs wherever possible.
Peer Review of the Architectural Design for The Calile Noosa Revision B 17 August 2022 Page 24
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