Beyond Sustainability
For MODEL, decarbonisation is not only a necessity but an opportunity to reshape the future of how people live.
Decarbonisation involves reducing carbon emissions both in the operation of buildings and the materials used in construction.
With the immediate challenge and existential crisis of climate change, our commitment goes beyond simply minimising impact — MODEL is here to regenerate.
Our approach focuses on 3 core principles:
- Passivhaus Certification
- Mass Timber Construction
- Achieving a 6 Star Green Star Rating
These strategies combine to create a comprehensive, sustainable framework that addresses environmental, economic, and social dimensions.
Passivhaus
Passivhaus is an advanced building standard that improves the energy efficiency of a home, along with the comfort and health of the people who live in it.
By using superior insulation, airtight construction, and smart ventilation systems, this creates acoustic benefits and a stable indoor climate year-round, drastically reducing the need for heating and cooling and using up to 70–80% less energy than conventional designs.
Mass Timber
Mass Timber is a renewable building material that delivers the strength and stability of traditional materials, only with a far smaller carbon footprint. This is because it has a unique ability to store carbon, rather than release it.
Because it can be prefabricated, Mass Timber (including cross-laminate timber, glulam, and other forms of timber design) also accelerates construction and produces significantly less waste, making it both an environmentally responsible and logistically efficient alternative.
Natural timber interiors also provide quality of life benefits for residents, with biophilic design proven to help calm and reduce stress.
6 Star Green Star Rating
A 6 Star Green Star Rating is the highest sustainability certification awarded by the Green Building Council of Australia. This coveted certification is given to projects that excel across every part of their environmental impact, from energy and water efficiency to indoor air quality and the use of sustainable materials.
For MODEL, achieving 6 Star Green Star is a goal that will prove our commitment to lead the decarbonisation of the built form.
Want to see how sustainable design drives stronger investment returns?
Want to learn more?
Check out the Unpacking Our Approach: Video Series