A new mixed-use development located in the London Fields area of the capital is the latest project to benefit from the optimum thermal performance of a Kingspan product. For over a decade the plot on Mentmore Terrace had stood vacant and was used only for occasional unpermitted parking. USE Architects partnered local developer Albion Homes to create the new 5 storey building which uses a concrete frame innovative corian rainscreen cladding to reflect the industrial heritage of the local area.

At the top of the property is a luxury 3 bedroom penthouse, complete with a spacious roof terrace. To maintain the building’s clean aesthetic, USE Architects needed a slim-line insulation product which would allow them to achieve a compliant U-value for the terrace without exceeding the internal floor height. This led them to specify the Kingspan OPTIM-R Balcony & Terrace System.

By utilising vacuum technology, the specialised panels can achieve the required thermal performance at a fraction of the thickness of traditional insulation. 40mm thick panels were specified along with Kingspan OPTIM-R Flex Infill strips of the same thickness. These were cut to fit around penetrations as required. A further thickness of Kingspan Thermaroof TR27 LPC/FM was then used as an overlay with a vapour control layer and the final paving fitted above.

Architect Jo Hagan commented: “The Bauhaus was certainly one of the inspirations for the final building design and we wanted to maintain a simple, modern aesthetic throughout. By specifying the Balcony & Terrace System we were able to meet the Building Regulation requirements without having to create an awkward level change between the interior and exterior spaces.”

As with all specialist Kingspan projects, the dedicated technical team provided detailed layouts for the Balcony & Terrace System, ensuring the required performance was met with an absolute minimum build-up. In addition, all the various systems hold LABC System Approval, helping to streamline the Building Control checking and approvals process.

Now completed, 3 Mentmore Terrace provides two B2 class business units on the ground floor, helping to support Hackney Council’s commitment to creating employment opportunities. The property also features a secure bike store, video intercom and lift to all levels with security code access to the penthouse.