Façade solutions are integrating an affordable social housing development in London seamlessly into its surroundings.
Located in West Kensington on the Springvale Estate, ‘Tavener Court’ comprises eight one and two-bedroom flats as well as two three-bedroom houses, spread across three floors.
Externally, the scheme features a mineral wall insulation system finished with a silicone render from Sto in a pale shade of yellow, and a variety of three-dimensional profiles to add architectural detailing across the building.
With 1,000 colours to choose from, the render offered extensive design flexibility for architecture and design company, NORR.
It has also provided a high level of water repellence and water vapour permeability, making the façade resistant to the build-up of dirt and reducing the growth of algae and fungus.
Profiles were specified to create window surrounds in pure white, corner detailing around the roof area, and a decorative band course across the façade.
Manufactured from Verolith, which comprises 90 per cent perlite, the profiles are highly resistant to weather and other environmental factors.
Light in weight and easy to work with on site, the products are quick to install and form a durable bond with the render.
“One of the primary design aims was to ensure Tavener Court complemented the street scene in Hammersmith & Fulham while providing a clean, modern appearance,” explained Duncan Ray, Senior Design Associate at NORR UK. “Many of the surrounding properties feature white window frames and door surrounds as well as render façade finishes.”
The mineral external wall insulation system provides fire protection and thermal efficiency.
Fibre insulation board fixed to the substrate using spiral designed fixings allow for quick adjustment of the installation, and ensuring a level surface prior to the application of the external render.
All installation was undertaken by external façade specialist, Drens Ltd.
The new homes were built by Ark Build PLC on behalf of Hammersmith & Fulham Council.
Tenancies were secured through the council’s housing register, enabling residents to stay in the properties for the long term.
Tavener Court forms part of a wider council scheme to deliver another 3,000 new homes over the next eight years, 60 per cent of which will be genuinely affordable.
