A historic building has been retained and upgraded as part of a multi-phase scheme to renovate and also to remodel its use for the college. As part of phase one the Architects specified the Larch Charred Heavy Brush which has a tactile and softer, more natural finish as a cladding material.
The building was extended with a contemporary CLT, Cross Laminated Timber construction. CLT buildings offer a cost-effective solution, as well as a reduced environmental footprint than steel and concrete. There are other benefits, including efficient construction, minimised waste, increased thermal qualities and flexibility in design.
Phase 1
This project was over 1000 sq m of charred timber cladding. Supplied to site as and when the contractor called each batch forward. The cladding was face fixed with stainless fixings to each batten centre. There were varying sizes of cladding profile, custom manufactured for this project. Due to the bespoke nature of this project our Shou Sugi Ban® worked perfectly as it’s bespoke handmade to order.
Phase 2
The cladding is now onsite.
The Architect said “Charred timber reflects the local vernacular and offers a sustainable and low maintenance solution for the College”
The building stands over two floors, has double height ceilings and large panel glass windows. The organic appearance of the cladding flows from floor to the apex of each roof section, as high as the surrounding trees and urges the building to blend in to the natural landscape.
Shiberiatora translates as “striped tiger” from the origins of Japan. It is a heavily charred cladding material which has been commercially brushed to leave the winter grain pronounced in black with the natural summer growth (wider and softer) shown as the natural colour of the timber. It’s this natural part of the timber that will go grey over time. Greying of the wood can be delayed by the application of a stain or UV coloured preservative. If you’d like to know more please enquire or request a CPD.
Project Bishop’s Stortford College, Wynch Cottage Day House
Location Hertfordshire
Architect Hawkins\Brown Architects
Contractor Dagenham Construction
Materials Larch Charred Heavy Brush, Shiberiatora – シベリアトラ
Awards RIBA 2017 Awards – East Regional short listed
Completed 2016
This cladding is designed and manufactured in the UK
