VIP technology provides luxury finish to mixed-use development in London

The Problem

A new mixed-use development located in the highly desirable London Fields area of the capital is the latest project to benefit from the optimum thermal performance of VIP (vacuum insulation panels) technology.

For over a decade the plot on Mentmore Terrace had stood vacant and was used only for occasional unpermitted parking. USE Architects partnered local developer Albion Homes to create the new 5 storey building which uses a concrete frame innovative corian rainscreen cladding to reflect the industrial heritage of the local area.

At the top of the property is a luxury 3 bedroom penthouse, complete with a spacious roof terrace. To maintain the building’s clean aesthetic, USE Architects needed a slim-line insulation product which would allow them to achieve a compliant U-value for the terrace without exceeding the internal floor height. This led them to specify vacuum insulation panels for the terrace.

The Solution

Thanks to the vacuum technology, the panels can achieve the required thermal performance at a fraction of the thickness of traditional insulation. 40mm thick panels were specified along with PIR infill strips of the same thickness. These were cut to fit around penetrations as required. A specialist technical team provided detailed layouts for the terrace, ensuring the required performance was met with an absolute minimum build-up.

Architect Jo Hagan commented: “The Bauhaus was certainly one of the inspirations for the final building design and we wanted to maintain a simple, modern aesthetic throughout. By specifying vacuum insulation panels we were able to meet the Building Regulation requirements without having to create an awkward level change between the interior and exterior spaces.”

The Result

Now completed, 3 Mentmore Terrace provides two B2 class business units on the ground floor, helping to support Hackney Council’s commitment to creating employment opportunities. The property also features a secure bike store, video intercom and lift to all levels with security code access to the penthouse.

 

Case study provided by Kingspan Insulation Ltd.