Queens Park Retrofit

A high profile, exemplar project retrofiting a series of terraced properties within the Queens Park Conservation Area and Low Carbon Zone, this project is being used by the BRE as a Pilot for their ‘BREEAM Domestic Refurbishment Standard’. Comprising of seven 2-bedroom, 2-storey Victorian properties built in approximately 1865, these homes are typical within the Queens Park Conservation Area which includes nearly 4000 similar properties. All seven properties are currently vacant.

Measured surveys as well as air tightness tests were therefore undertaken, allowing for a range of retrofit options (fabric improvements and M&E upgrades) to be drawn-up which would achieve significant carbon reductions and result in an exemplar of sustainable refurbishment.

These were then evaluated alongside BRE EcoHomes XB target criteria and discussed with the local conservation officer. The resulting package for improvement therefore included the following measures. Once complete, these properties will be let by the local Housing Association.

Fabric measures –
•    Blown stone wool loft insulation.
•    Aerogel or woodfibre dry-lining to internal face of external walls.
•    Eco-slab floor system to new areas with composite chipboard/ aerogel panels to existing floor.
•    Replacement triple-glazed casement or double glazed sash windows to rear elevation.
•    Refurbished windows to front elevation with secondary glazing throughout.

MEP measures –
•    Improved airtightness will enable possible use of MVHR. Alternatively we are considering options for passive ventilation systems.
•    Replacement gas-fired condensing boilers
•    Low energy lighting dedicated CFL’s or LED’s High efficiency appliances (A++ rated)
•    Low flush WC’s & aerated taps.
•    Water recycling and attenuation options