StudiesLow/Zero Carbon Strategies
Waste Brick WallA re-imagining of the historical Bungaroosh Wall as a
composition of bricks from off-cuts, demolished industrial waste and bee, bat
and insect habitats led to several prototype garden walls being built in KFM’s
courtyard. This series of experiments has now been implemented, where
appropriate, in a number of our built, un-built and proposed works. KFM prides
itself on having a proactive, hands-on approach to constructing elegant homes.
Compressed Chalk BlocksWorking in partnership with local brickmaker HG Matthews, we
developed low-carbon blockwork composed of straw, clay, chalk and a small
amount of natural lime. High in thermal mass, this low-processed alternative to
concrete absorbs VOCs and provides an attractive uncovered internal surface.
Raw Clay Plaster
Dirt can be beautiful. We worked with Rebecca local craftswoman to
turn local unfired clay into stunning polished plaster by hand. Playing with the
juxtaposing textures of lustre and grunge to create a dynamic interior
in
ambient
light and colour.
Strawbale Construction
We are
well-experienced in navigating the challenges that come from the implementation
of natural, low-carbon, unprocessed materials into the construction of
beautiful homes. Organic materials that can be exposed to external environments
– such as strawbale – are often not certified, hindering the process of
achieving a mortgage. Through negotiations with the bank, we came to an architectural compromise that involved lining the straw surface with
a warm timber finish.
Wood Fired Clay TilesFrom the beginning of the brief, Ten Oaks aspired to be a zero-carbon
project in construction and operation that utilised traditional processes and materials
from the grounds of the surrounding site. Our long-standing relationship with local
brickmakers HG Matthews, led to the development of tested and certified wood
fired clay tiles – a new and innovative product range realised in collaboration
between the Client, the Architect and the Maker.
Design with VR
As demonstrated by these studies, we work from fabric-first
principles, exploring the use of local, low-processed, “primitive” materials
that enable us to engage with the surrounding artisans. From here, we
collaborate in re-imagining these traditional processes into a contemporary fabric
– sustaining the community’s economy. Similary, within a sensitive
socio-ecological environment such as Berkhamsted, Virtual Reality has enabled us
to invite local authorities to experience our designs at
scale within the accurately modelled context of the site (e.g. edge of
settlement, open countryside, etc.). We have had many a great experience watching
planning officers better understand our proposals in VR and really engaging with
the proposal.
© Kirkland Fraser Moor Tel:
01442 864 673
Email: mail@k-f-m.com
8-12 Clarence Rd Depot, Clarence Rd. HP4 3AS