Earlsdon Retirement Village Case Study

As part of the phase 2 development of Earlsdon Retirement Village in Coventry, SPSenvirowall and RCM, part of the Benx Group of Companies were appointed by Vistry Group to supply its façade products for its A2 fire-rated system as required by the developers and building regulations for this large expansion.

The expansion of Earlsdon Retirement Village created an additional 60 new apartments for Coventry-based ExtraCare Charitable Trust which was completed this year. Located at Earlsdon Park in Coventry, the village is home to over 350 older residents and includes a long list of amenities and care services. LB&F Façade Specialists expertly installed SPSenvirowall’s Cavity System 1 with a white silicone render complemented with RCM’s Rockpanel FS-Xtra as part of the façade package supplied to the project.

To provide a thermally efficient building, a 90mm – 130mm high density mineral wool was specified along with the use of high impact mesh in vulnerable areas which also forms part of the A2-s1, d0 fire classification. In the communal walkways, CompacFoam was also specified and used to provide a zero thermal bridge support block in place of timber as a long-term maintenance free solution.

Additionally, alongside the 90mm – 130mm high density mineral wool, compact foam was supplied to provide a zero thermal bridge support block. Chosen for having an A rated fire classification, the Cavity System benefits from EuroClass A1 components and drainage space between the cladding and sheathed framed structure, ensuring any potential water is drained. This system can also accommodate a range of finishes from coloured render to brick effect façades, allowing the architect flexibility and freedom of design.

Produced from compressed natural basalt, RCM supplied the Rockpanel boards finished with a 4 layer water-based coating to seal in the appearance and colour to provide a lasting finish and benefits from an EN 13501-1 class A2-s1, d0 fire rated classification.

Rockpanel façades have the hard and durable qualities of stone providing high levels of impact resistance, while providing the advantage of a material which has the workability of wood. Easy to install, these boards are both strong and flexible, and can be cut, bent, shaped and curved to achieve the desired vision without compromising on durability. Impervious to water, and with high levels of weather stability Rockpanel requires minimal maintenance, is self-cleaning and maintains its original striking and beautiful appearance with colourfast finishes.

Now a landmark building in Coventry, the village, sitting within a boundary of existing trees, provides a range of communal spaces and activities for as much or as little engagement as residents choose.