The Wilam Ngarrang Retrofit project highlights the environmental, social, and financial advantages of retrofitting Melbourne’s inner-city apartments. Kennedy Nolan implemented a ‘minimal-intervention’ approach to upgrade a 1970s Fitzroy apartment block. The retrofit improved thermal performance, extended the building’s lifespan and enhanced tenant amenities. Key goals included achieving net-positive energy, reducing water demands, minimizing construction waste and carbon emissions and promoting zero-waste operations. The project retained the building structure, added efficient water systems, a 33kW rooftop solar array and heat recovery ventilation. Tenants enjoy up to 80% bill savings, with two units offered below market rates through non-profit real estate agency HomeGround.

Photography by Eve Wilson.