Work on South London EnerPHit social housing block underway
Construction work is progressing at pace on the five-storey Parkview Hub development in Thamesmead, south-east London – one of the largest EnerPHit social housing projects in the UK. Contractor Gumpp & Maier UK are working with architects sustainableBYdesign and engineer Alan Clarke (all UK Passivhaus Trust members) on the retrofit scheme, which is being carried out using a prefabricated approach. Timber stud external wall cassettes, assembled with insulation, linings, triple-glazed windows, service penetrations and cladding in Gumpp & Maier’s factory in Bavaria, are transported to the site and craned into position on the outside of the existing pre-cast concrete structure - all whilst residents are still in occupation. The north facade was installed in a matter of days and work is now proceeding on the gable ends and, internally, to remove existing PVC-u windows. To give improved access, many of the existing balcony panels and bridge connections are also being demolished as part of the improvement works.
sustainableBYdesign are now working closely with Gumpp & Maier’s team on the detailed design as the project progresses, evaluating interfaces to minimise thermal bridging and maintain integrity of the air barrier. Externally, the mineral paint-coated timber cladding panels, zinc shingles and pitched metal roof will transform the look of the building: internally, it is intended the cellulose-insulated cladding, heat recovery ventilation and new heating systems will be equally dramatic in improving comfort standards for residents of the 18 three- and five-bed maisonettes.
At street level, the existing garages are being converted for use as retail and community spaces, in line with the wider regeneration masterplan for the landlord Gallions Housing Association. Work is due to complete early next year but in the meantime, Mark Elton and Alexander Gumpp will give a presentation on the project as part of the forthcoming UK Passivhaus Conference.
30th September 2013
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