Timber windows provide maximum light for social housing project

NorDan’s aluminium clad timber windows and sliding patio doors have been used to introduce natural light into an urban social housing project. Based in Whitechapel, London, the development has been shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling architecture prize for 2015.

Designed by Niall McLaughlin Architects, the multi-million pound project comprises a small block of 13 mixed size units, inspired by Henry Darbishire’s Peabody housing blocks of the 1860s.

These units range in size, with the largest accommodating 4 bedrooms. At least half of the thirteen new builds will be affordable dwellings.

The new block reflects the characteristics of the site’s existing estate blocks; the windows are surrounded by deep, white reveals and the balconies offer sufficient space for platers.

The balconies have also been positioned within the building envelope to retain a flat brick façade, in keeping with the aesthetic of the existing blocks.

Timber windows for maximum daylight

A number of NorDan sliding patio doors and timber windows have been fitted to diffuse daylight into the apartments’ living rooms, which are at the ends of the block.

In addition, the company’s aluminium clad timber widows will keep the building airtight, enhancing its green credentials, whilst ensuring that its heating bills will be kept to a minimum.

The completed building has plenty on central circulation space, with ventilation and natural light; the need for a ventilation shaft has been removed by positioning the fire lobbies on an external wall with opening widows.

Thanks to NorDan’s contribution, the project has been shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling architecture prize, which celebrates the year’s biggest contribution to the evolution of architecture.

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NorDan UK Ltd
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