Client: Connexus
Architect: K4 Architects
Contractor: SJ Roberts Construction
Marstons Hub is a new £1.2 million facility for young people, set within the historic market town of Ludlow, in South Shropshire. The 1,845 m2 development comprises of 11 new build homes (including 3 fully accessible units), 13 refurbished homes within the mill, 10,000 sq.ft. commercial workspace, over 3 levels and a 1,000 sq.ft. community café space. Lowfield Timber Frames designed, manufactured and installed the timber frame system for the development to reduce build time and maintenance costs while maximising quality and environmental benefits.
The scheme incorporates supported residential accommodation for vulnerable young (and some older) adults and pathways into training and apprenticeships. The programme also offers life skills, such as independent living, flat-sharing and taking personal responsibility for budgeting etc.
As an organic, renewable and carbon neutral material, timber has the lowest CO2 impact of all building materials. While cement is responsible for approximately 50% of the construction industry’s CO2 output as a result of its production process and the by-products created during chemical reactions. Timber continuously absorbs CO2, reducing carbon footprint and environmental impact, carbon is then stored in the building for its lifetime.
Lowfield Timber Frames is less than 30 miles from Marstons Hub, meaning minimal transport costs and emissions. Lowfield Timber Frames is less than 30 miles from Marstons Hub, meaning minimal transport costs and emissions.
Due to the complex nature of the roof configuration, a combination of partial roof trusses, steel supporting members and engineered I joists were used to form the roof and concealed rainwater gutters. EPC’s produced for individual units show that they have an energy efficiency rating of 84% and an Environmental Impact
(CO2) rating of 88% on average.
