Contemporary in Charlton Kings

Described as "one of the finest [properties] ... to come to market in recent years" new build 'Vespers' is the first project RRA worked on for Cheltenham company SAID Properties. Located in the picturesque area of Charlton Kings, Cheltenham the detached house has been constructed using the innovative SIPS panel method. With a small site and very restricted access, we were presented with some challenges in developing the scheme to replace an old, run-down bungalow with a contemporary new build. Working with the developer SAID Properties, we investigated Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs). Whilst this is not a new technology, it is still not commonly used by most developers despite the many advantages. Along with speeding up construction SIPS panels offer increased insulation, energy efficiency and are impressively air-tight. In fact, the panels are so airtight, to control the airflow a mechanical ventilation heat recovery unit was installed. This uses the heat from the expelled air to warm the incoming clean air, thus reducing heat loss, allowing the property to remain airtight, but still ventilated. The speed of build is impressive, from damp proof course to completion of the SIPS construction took a mere 23 days. This stunning house features high-performance, crittall windows, five bedrooms and several double-height spaces which add to the exquisite ambience of space and light. The burnt larch cladding gives a contemporary look to the first floor, whilst, in contrast, brick slip cladding has been used on the ground floor in keeping with the surrounding buildings.