Re-use and bio-based materials in new build housing
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Phoenix, Lewes is a low carbon neighbourhood for developer Human Nature, who plan to build from as many re-used, re-purposed, and bio-based materials as possible, reducing embodied carbon whilst still providing energy efficient housing in a safe, buildable and insurable manner.
Whitbywood are not only acting as structural engineers for the first parcel of the development, but also Executive Engineer, developing a playbook for the whole masterplan through findings not only from our design development, but also through research, workshops, optioneering, consultation and discussion with the industry.
The superstructure of the buildings is to be timber, sourced from local suppliers and manufactured on site into panels, or from engineered timber. The supply chain, logistics, and early stage design of the buildings are all key to ensuring that the project can be delivered in this manner.
Key strategies have been in line with Human Nature’s core principles,
Build and Design - encouraging design based on the availability of local materials, what is able to be manufactured on site, and using the lowest embodied carbon details possible, on balance with safety, energy efficiency and practicalities of the current regulatory and legal requirements.
Raw and Craft - providing flexible space to meet a multitude of potential occupiers needs, reducing wastage in finishes, or unintended high energy demands for future changes of use.
Outside Inside - providing a visceral connection with nature via a terraces, balconies, and connecting public green, and blue spaces.
As with any project, particularly ones that have new technologies, approaches and sustainable goals, collaboration is key to success. We are working with a fantastic team who’s ideas and input are invigorating and motivating to be around.
Parcel 1 collaborators include:
Masterplanning: Periscope, Arup & Human Nature
Architecture: 13 architects: Ash Sakula, AJP, Mae, Mole, Archio, ARA...
Energy and Services: Atelier 10
Infrastructure and Civils: Expedition Engineering
PMQS: RUA
Panel production liaison: Greencore
Engineered Timber liaison: Eurban
Local timber liaison: Woodnet
Materials Auditors: Local Works Studio