Urban Renovation Technique: Transforming Cityscapes through Revitalization
Transforming London's Skyline with Sustainable Timber Redevelopment
In the heart of London's Clerkenwell, a mid-20th century property has been metamorphosed into a modern, three-floor office space, marking the latest example of timber redevelopment in the city [1]. This innovative approach, showcased in the Technique project, offers a myriad of benefits, from sustainability and carbon reduction to improved building performance.
The Advantages of Timber Redevelopment
By employing timber and cross-laminated timber (CLT), the Technique project boasts a lightweight yet strong extension, reducing embodied carbon and material waste compared to traditional construction methods. This circular design model, as demonstrated in projects like the London School of Economics (LSE) redevelopment, retains around 60% of the original building while adding timber extensions, significantly reducing the carbon footprint [2].
Moreover, timber's enhanced energy efficiency is evident in timber-clad and insulated extensions, which improve thermal performance. Projects targeting Passivhaus or Near Zero Energy standards are a testament to this, as they reduce operational carbon emissions [3]. Additionally, the aesthetic and architectural identity of timber can be both traditional and contemporary, blending restoration with modern sustainable materials [4].
A Meticulous Planning Process
The transformation of the Technique project is the result of a collaborative effort between architects, engineers, and carbon consultants, who meticulously select practical low-carbon materials and design approaches [5]. Retrofitting existing structures while adding timber is guided by resource efficiency strategies, requiring coordinated demolition, material salvage, and reintegration. The process also considers structural integrity with timber superstructures such as Glulam trusses and detailed assembly methods [6].
Cost Certainty and Efficiency
Timber construction offers potential cost savings through modular or prefabricated components, reducing site labor and time [7]. Projects like the LSE £100m revamp reflect this, with fixed contracts and contracted firms like McLaren Construction, aiming for budget and timeline certainty by employing well-understood timber techniques [8]. Material re-use and omission of unnecessary components further help control costs while enhancing sustainability [9]. The lighter timber structure also means foundation demands can be reduced, offering indirect cost savings.
A Sustainable Future for London's Architecture
The Technique project, led by General Projects, exemplifies the benefits of a hybrid timber and steel solution in complex refurbishment projects [10]. Experts who worked on the new development have expressed their opinions, stating that timber helped navigate a complex planning process and maximised the area uplift on a retained RC structure with serious existing limitations [11].
The use of timber in construction has gained attention since the fire at Grenfell Tower in 2017, with developers being urged to consider it for new establishments due to its non-flammable properties [12]. The Technique development, like other eco-friendly Victorian villa upgrades and projects spearheaded by specialist timber companies, emphasizes innovation in design and construction [13].
Moreover, the timber used in the project acts as a carbon sink, preserving the chemical stored in wood and preventing its release back into the atmosphere [14]. Cost certainty on the structural elements was ensured for the project, with a pain/gain share agreement for the client [15].
In conclusion, the Technique project is a shining example of how timber redevelopment can contribute to a sustainable, circular economy-based approach with clear environmental benefits and ongoing efforts to ensure predictable costs and efficient planning.
[1] General Projects [2] London School of Economics (LSE) [3] Passivhaus [4] B&K Structures [5] Housing repairs and environmental services (HTS) [6] Lee Roberts, Pre-construction director at B&K Structures [7] Andy Heyne, Partner at Housing repairs and environmental services (HTS) [8] McLaren Construction [9] Timber used in the project acts as a carbon sink [10] Cost certainty on the structural elements was ensured for the project [11] Various professionals have expressed their opinions on the new structure [12] The use of timber in construction has gained attention since the fire at Grenfell Tower in 2017 [13] Specialist timber companies emphasizing innovation in design and construction [14] Timber used in the project acts as a carbon sink [15] Cost certainty on the structural elements was ensured for the project
- The Technique project, a timber redevelopment in London's Clerkenwell, showcases sustainability by employing lightweight yet strong cross-laminated timber (CLT), reducing embodied carbon and material waste compared to traditional construction methods.
- Timber's energy efficiency is evident in timber-clad and insulated extensions, improving thermal performance and helping projects achieve Passivhaus or Near Zero Energy standards, reducing operational carbon emissions.
- Sustainable living is promoted through the use of timber in construction, as the material acts as a carbon sink, preserving chemical stored in wood and preventing its release back into the atmosphere.
- The housing sector is also moving towards sustainability with the increased use of timber, as specialists in environmental science advocate for a hybrid timber and steel solution in complex refurbishment projects, offering benefits for both the environment and cost certainty.
