Hames Sharley’s dedication to sustainable design is paying off with two of its projects being announced as finalists for the upcoming 2009 State Innovation and Excellence Awards hosted for the first time by the Property Council of Western Australia.

Both the Biomedical Research Facility for the University of Western Australia and Alcoa’s new office in the Peel region are in the running to win the “Bassett Award for Sustainable Developments.”

Executive Chairman of Hames Sharley, William Hames says having two projects as nominated finalists for the state awards is a great achievement and an opportunity to acknowledge the sustainability initiatives requested by the clients themselves.”

“The nominations are a great testament to the quality of our work and fantastic recognition of the creative talent, skills and most importantly, the continuous dedication the team and client have in producing sustainable designs.”

“As designers, we understand the role and responsibility we play in producing sustainable built environments, therefore I am immensely proud of what we’ve been able to achieve with these two buildings. Each project is playing its part in being a benchmark for future sustainable developments in regional Western Australia and for research facilities.”

The Biomedical Research Facility was designed by Hames Sharley to accommodate all breeding of small animals and a range of experimental zones in Western Australia. Since it’s opening, the facility has played home to some of the nation’s leading scientists and researchers. It has been the recipient of seven awards for its innovation and commitment to design and sustainability.

In response to Pindan and Alcoa’s determination to develop an environmentally and socially responsible building, Hames Sharley incorporated innovative design solutions into Alcoa’s new office with the primary purpose of improving work conditions and reducing waste, energy and water. The building is one of only a small number of regional offices in Western Australia designed to achieve a 4 NABERS rating.

Winners will be announced at the inaugural Gala Presentation Ball on Friday 20 February 2009 at Perth Convention Exhibition Centre.