Frames Direct to provide the windows for the first mixed-tenure Passivhaus development in London

Frames Direct have been awarded the windows contract with Durkan for the Sulgrave Gardens Passivhaus development in Hammersmith. This will be London’s first mixed-tenure Passivhaus residential area.

Designed by Cartwright Pickard Architects, Sulgrave Gardens will consist of thirty homes of mixed-tenure occupancy with 18 to achieve Passivhaus Certification and the remaining 12 to be built using the principles of Passivhaus. ‘Passivhaus’ is a German idea which refers to a specific low energy construction standard for buildings resulting in comfortable living conditions all year round; which is achieved through air tightness, high insulation standards and a mechanical heat recovery system. By building to these standards properties are able to save up to 90% on heating bills compared to traditional housing.

Durkan’s managing Director, Robert Clark, commented that ‘The Sulgrave Gardens development marks a significant progression in the construction of sustainable buildings. It’s part of Durkan’s commitment along with our partners to build sustainable homes for the future that are not only energy efficient but also offer cost-effective, long-term benefits for residents. We look forward to helping Octacia set a new standard in London.’

This will be Frames Direct’s second Passivhaus project, with the first completed in 2011 for the Greenbase Horticultural Centre in Liverpool, where Internorm’s Varion 4 system was installed with integrated blinds for sun protection. With the Sulgrave Gardens development Frames Direct will be supplying and installing another Passivhaus certified design, the Edition system, which offers U values up to 0.71 W/m²K for the whole window.

Due to the innovative technology of Internorm’s window systems Frames Direct is becoming a key player for the UK’s construction market providing and installing these thermally efficient projects and delighted to be part of the Passivhaus development and the prospect of progression into sustainable building that Sulgrave Gardens highlights.