Leighton development, HQ, is a model for the rest of the world

July 14, 2010 saw the official opening of Queensland's newest 6 Star Green Star - Office Design v2 mixed-use development HQ in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley.

HQ development, Wickham Street, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane Queensland.

A joint venture between Leighton Properties and Leighton Contractors, the twin tower development delivers 44,000 square metres of premium commercial office and retail space, along with restaurants, cafes, wine bars and a public piazza to the area.

AFIAA - the Swiss Foundation for International Real Estate Investment - purchased the HQ South Tower in March 2010 and states "When it comes to sustainability, the building is regarded as a model for the rest of the world."

AFIAA recognises that the attractive investment value provided through its long-term leases with first-class tenants is underpinned by the building being highly energy-efficient with a top environmental rating of 6 Star Green Star. Furthermore, the building is within a precinct designed to meet the requirements of both business and private individuals.

HQ official opening ceremony: Darren Weir, Cr Amanda Cooper, Andrew Borger.

Brisbane City Councillor Amanda Cooper who officially opened the precinct, said HQ is in line with Brisbane City Council's future plan and helps cement the Valley's position as a prime business and lively event hub.

"The Council also acknowledges HQ's contribution to green space, with the inclusion of a subtropical boulevard providing the public with open space, trees and street shading."

Leighton Properties Executive Director and Queensland State Manager Andrew Borger emphasises "HQ is about providing a new generation of commercial and retail space to businesses, one that encompasses ecologically sensitive design to benefit the environment and tenants."

"HQ has a host of features designed with sustainability and user comfort in mind, such as 50 per cent more fresh air than normal office buildings, atriums to maximise natural light and foliage, the use of low volatile organic compound fittings, rainwater harvesting and water-efficient fixtures. The development has a dedicated bicycle centre with over 260 bike parks, full end-of-trip facilities such as showers and lockers and onsite bicycle repairs and services." he added

Leighton Properties believes these innovative sustainability initiatives, first class facilities and great growth potential of the area drive the financial rewards for both tenants and investors alike. Both Leighton Contractors and Leighton Properties have re-located their Queensland head offices into the HQ South Tower to harness the benefits of the precinct they have created.

The other building in the development, HQ North Tower, houses the Australian head offices of leading international companies AECOM and Technology One Limited. Following the successful sale of HQ South Tower, HQ North Tower will also be on-sold for investment.

Leighton Properties has now achieved over 10 Green Star ratings across its development portfolio, including the multi-award winning Green Square precinct in Brisbane which houses the largest co-generation plant constructed in Australia. Leighton Properties acknowledges the work of the Green Building Council of Australia in contributing to the knowledge base across the industry and providing rating tools for Green Star certification. Leighton Properties is proud to be a member organisation.