Finalist success for 2020 awards
Lowfield Timber Frames are thrilled to have been shortlisted for this years Structural Timber Awards. LTF are finalists in the Social Housing category for the Marstons Hub project.
About Marstons Hub
Marstons Hub is a new £1.2 million facility for young people, set within the historic market town of Ludlow, in South Shropshire. The development comprises of 11 new build homes, 13 refurbished homes within the mill, a commercial workspace, and a community café space.
To meet Connexus’ need for a sustainable solution to develop a low energy supported living solution, Lowfield Timber Frames designed a timber system for Marstons Hub that minimises energy impact and facilitates maximum airtightness. The overall aim was to develop sustainability and quality while eradicating fuel poverty and improving residents’ health and wellbeing.
Lowfield Timber Frames translated the architect’s designs to create a fully bespoke timber system, applying a fabric first approach that requires minimal energy. The fabric first approach enables comfortable lifestyles for residents while minimising operational costs.
The structure was manufactured by Lowfield Timber Frames using offsite timber frames for the walls, and cassettes for the roof and floors. This system offers high thermal performance and air tightness for maximum energy efficiency.
The guiding principle to this project has been to develop a language that will unify the historic fabric with the newer elements, whilst still retaining their own distinct character.
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.
The awards ceremony will take place in March 2021.
Client: Connexus
Architect: K4 Architects
Contractor: SJ Roberts Construction
