The only ecologically-built exhibition space in the North of Scotland, Moray Art Centre is designed to be a model of 100% energy sustainability.
Designed by Affordable TM, Moray Art Centre is based upon low environmental impact building, through ecological and sustainable material specification. From the start, the aim of the building was to minimise the ongoing operational expenditure through investing in efficient heating, lighting, ventilation and water systems.
The plan was originally derived from a rigorous public consultation exercise, from which the design of the facilities and services were established, maximising overall economic, social and environmental benefits. The project used locally sourced materials and, wherever possible, ecologically-friendly building materials. Dunelands Ltd. a nearby woodland conservation group who have 10 acres of storm-fallen trees, offered the use of their wood for the construction of the building.
Philips Lighting donated £38,000 of their newest, highest-level museum-quality lighting, which is also their most energy efficient system. (Each light uses a mere 3 watts for full-spectrum lighting).
The building’s heating is provided by the use of an on-site Geothermal heat pumps / heat storage system. Solar photovoltaic roof panels, passive solar building design, high-level insulation and Findhorn Eco Village wind turbines all deliver further substantial benefits, as constantly renewable energy sources with no associated pollution.
The Art Centre also benefits from an ecologically engineered sewage treatment plant, The Living Machine, which is situated in the Findhorn Ecovillage. All water from sinks and toilets in the area is recycled. The Art Centre also tries to ensure, where possible, that all waste is recycled too.
The building has become a resource for learning, as it is a model of eco-sustainability. Scottish/Multinational corporations, including Diageo, have already requested our consultation regarding our unique eco-building design. The building has also been recongnised in a number of architectural awards. In 2008 Affordable TM were the winners of Moray Green Design Award and the Moray Art Centre nomination in the 2009 Scottish Design Awards – Sustainable Design Category, was well received but was pipped by the £10 million Edinburgh University Campus project!