Interiors
The external materiality was brought through to the
interior spaces, but in a softer palette, to create a
sense of continuity. The smooth white walls of the
apartments create a spacious feel within a limited
footprint. Charcoal from the external steel and
stonework is re-imagined in the interiors through
grey tones throughout the kitchens and bathroom
vanities. Interior palettes were kept neutral to form
a backdrop to any individual styling by owners.
The result is light, bright and seemingly spacious
contemporary living spaces.
Sustainability
The project was rationally designed with energy
modelling software, by consultants, HereToday.
Due to the passive green approach to the
architecture, the energy demands were minimal.
Detailed planning of sustainable elements
guided the energy efficiency decision making,
as various thermal performance options were
evaluated against the cost and value. The open
atrium space between the blocks, apartment
layouts, fenestration sizes and orientation capitalise
northern solar gain, thus enhancing day-lighting
and natural ventilation. This passive thermal design,
whilst being energy efficient and sustainable, also
leads to greater comfort levels, residents’ well
being and even increased productivity.
Other efficiency measures considered were the
use of red clay face-brick walls to reduce embodied
energy and future maintenance. Internal high
The Chelsea
level glazing aided in maximising the natural light
egress, whilst extra seals on fenestration reduced
air leakage and thermal transfer. Reduced shading
allowed more winter solar gain and a ring main
hot water system to reduce hot water usage.
Multi-layered plumbing pipes and low pressure
composite hot-water storage tanks with high
specification insulation were used to reduce hot
water standing losses as well as the low flow
water fittings with low wattage lighting and energy
efficient appliances.
An option at a later stage is to install a
photovoltaic system in order reduce the base
load demand.
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