HSSP ARCHITECTS LIMITED
External images : James Botterill , HSSP Architects Internal images : Sara Reynard Photography
The measures that could be implemented in the building itself were to a certain degree restricted by its 130 year age , but the majority of the existing fabric of the building has been able to be saved and repaired at great cost rather than covered with nonsustainable materials .
For the two new storeys added at roof level , fusion frame was selected for its light weight and high-tolerance , however it is also an environmentally conscientious material in that steel is 100 % recyclable and is the easiest material to recycle . Sustainably sourced FSC registered timber was selected for the new partitions for its renewable properties . The majority of the original slate roof was removed to allow for the additional storeys ; some of the slates were used to touch up a remaining roof , with the rest being sold and upcycled onto the next stage of their life .
Sedum roofs have been incorporated which bring a host of benefits from encouraging biodiversity , to reducing the carbon footprint by its very nature of improving insulation , to the absorption of carbon dioxide in the air and converting it to oxygen , thus improving the surrounding air quality . A communal heating system has been installed throughout which is far more energy efficient than individual boilers in each apartment . The radiant heating nature of underfloor heating in the apartments also enables the system to be run on lower temperatures .
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