Studio Kennon has designed the 550 Spencer St - Catching the Sun building facade in Melbourne, Australia.

550 Spencer will feature more than 1,000 glass-like solar panels across its facade.

Studio Kennon said that the "eight-storey tower's facade will harness sunlight to produce 50 times more electricity than a standard rooftop solar panel system used in residential projects."

This is estimated to prevent the emission of 70 tonnes of carbon dioxide every year.

"Our design of 550 Spencer's façade comprises 1,180 solar cells, which will have a similar appearance and thickness to a traditional glass facade, unlike commonplace solar panels," added Studio Kennon.

The panels used are from German company Avancis' solar facade system, Skala, which has never been used in Australia before.

This project has been longlisted in the sustainable building category of Dezeen Awards 2024.

Studio: Studio Kennon
Project: 550 Spencer St - Catching the Sun