Case study #2 – Art Gallery of NSW

Powered by renewables, the Art Gallery of New South Wales new SANAA-designed building, Naala Badu is a beacon of Sydney’s sustainability ambitions

The Art Gallery of New South Wales has long been a cultural beacon in Sydney, showcasing remarkable art and architecture. The new building, Naala Badu, which means ‘seeing waters’, elevated this legacy when it became the first public art museum in Australia to achieve 6-star Green Star as-built certification.

From its inception, Naala Badu was envisioned to be sustainable and beautiful. The initial goal of a 5-star rating was ambitiously upgraded to a 6-star target after collaboration between the project team during the design development phase and the NSW government procurement team. Naala Badu not only meets but exceeds expectations with its 100% GreenPower electricity supply, ensuring all energy needs are met through renewable sources.

Naala Badu incorporates several other innovative features to minimise its ecological impact. Rainwater capture and harvesting systems are in place, with the collected water reused for irrigation and cooling towers. Additionally, the landscape around Naala Badu has been transformed, with 70% more trees planted than before construction began. The introduction of native species has not only restored pre-European settlement flora but also boosted local biodiversity, creating a vibrant, green space.

As a partner in the Sustainable Destination Partnership, the Art Gallery’s efforts align with broader goals to make Sydney a leader in sustainability. This collaboration has further amplified the gallery's initiatives, fostering a collective commitment to environmental responsibility across the city. This specific project not only sets a new standard for public art museums in Australia but also serves as an inspiring model for others to follow in the pursuit of a greener future.