Posted 20.10.16
NHBC Foundation: Article link
The Government's commitment, back in 2006, to a zero carbon target led to much debate about how new homes could be designed, specified and constructed to deliver a greatly-improved energy performance.
Much of the focus has to date been on building fabric, insulation and new technology. Perhaps surprisingly, relatively little consideration has so far been given to how the shape and form of new homes impact upon energy efficiency.
A new report from the NHBC Foundation - The challenge of shape and form - highlights the benefits of choosing efficient forms of housing and avoiding unduly complex shapes in order to minimise heat loss.
It provides a useful insight into an approach which starts by considering the inherent efficiency of good shape and form before adding the fabric insulation and efficient services that are also needed.
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Posted 07.10.16
Keepmoat: Article link
Off-site construction has helped to accelerate the delivery of new high quality student accommodation in Ambleside, Cumbria.
Regeneration and construction specialist Keepmoat has worked closely with the University of Cumbria to develop a bespoke design and utilise off-site manufacturing to deliver 11 bed and two 8 bedroom town houses, which will house 71 students.
In an effort to minimise local disruption, Keepmoat opted to use Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs), which reduces on-site labour and minimises on-site disruption.
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Posted 03.10.16
Higgins Construction: Article link
Higgins Construction has won a £24.3 million contract to build 125 homes for Metropolitan Housing Association in Brent, North London.
The project will include various tenures and community units and will be built across a complex of heights, with the tallest reaching nine storeys.
The building will be fitted with photo voltaic panels to help achieve the energy rating and built to Code for Sustainable Homes Level 4 and BREEAM excellent for the community buildings.