Government Agency

Mills Building has been designed to centralise and rationalise the constituent departments of the ASU into a single facility. This centralisation provides a more cohesive and safe working environment and forms part of the overall VLA site masterplan.

The building is a landmark of green construction, utilising renewable timber (glulam), structurally insulated panels (SIP), and energy-efficient climate control systems. The design integrates a range of sustainable technologies, including automated natural ventilation, photovoltaic and solar cells capable of providing in excess of 10% of the building’s energy requirements, extensive use of timber and wood-based products from renewable and certified sources, products with zero ODP and HCFC content, water-saving devices, and mechanical systems designed to minimise CO₂ emissions and energy consumption.

The building achieved the highest-ever BREEAM assessment score for a bespoke building type at the time, achieving an Excellent rating, and received both RICS and Green Apple awards in recognition of its sustainable design and environmental performance.