Syntec’s latest low carbon new-build project is the design and build of 24 duplex apartments in Beresford Road, Southall for client A2 Dominion. As a company, we’re committed to looking at environmentally friendly solutions to new-build housing.
This will be Syntec’s third NZEB (Nearly Zero Energy Build) and it will be constructed using lightweight metal frame SFS, brick cladding and will have a green roof. Specialist airtight materials, high quality of workmanship and attention to detail will allow us achieve a high level of airtightness across the building creating draft-free apartments. MVHR systems with air-to-air heat pumps will also be installed. We’re working with structural engineers Arcelle, and architects Gravity Design.
Tucked away at the end of a residential street in Southall, the site was originally a brick field back in the 1800s. A stone’s throw from the Grand Union Canal, there was once a canal channel and towing path crossing the southern end of the site. Later the land was used as workshops but these had been demolished and the disused land was lain to made ground with stockpiles of general waste before Syntec began development.
After site clearance and remediation works, the ground level was reduced by 600mm. Sub structure construction was completed including CFA piling and ground beams, Block & beam GF slab installed, supporting steelwork for cantilevered walkway was erected, new boundary fences installed, then all the underground drainage was completed.
Split into two separate blocks with 16 units in Block A and 8 in Block B, works are progressing well. Block A is currently at 2nd floor for the SFS install. We’re about to commence with the second scaffold lift, then partition walls will be installed to the 2nd and 3rd floor along with ceiling joist install. Around the middle of August, roofing works will begin (roof joists install, firring install, ply install, insulation install, form box gutters, roofing membrane install). And once watertight, in September, internal fit out works will commence.
In Block B, the smaller of the two blocks, the roof installation is complete and the buildings are nearing watertight. The communal access stairway has been constructed. Works to follow include installation of vapour control layer to CP board, DPC fixing strap install, cavity insulation and brickwork install. Once the buildings are watertight, insulation can be fitted internally along with 1st fix drylining/MEP works.
The development, due for completion in July 2022, will have its own private carpark and beautifully landscaped gardens. The properties, which will be available to rent as affordable housing, will also benefit from green living roofs. Green roofs help reduce the temperature of our cities, improve the overall air quality and provide habitats for all sorts of wildlife. They even add a layer of insulation for our homes and help to reduce fuel bills.
