EXTERNAL ENVELOPE Traditional is the new modern Tom Wright of George Barnsdale explores the use of timber in ‘minimalist’ designs
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“W
e must recognise the importance of timber in overcoming our climate challenge,” David
Warburton wrote to his fellow MPs recently. On paper, politicians are making the right noises, having enshrined into law a commitment to reduce carbon emissions by 78% versus 1990 levels. The MP goes on to predict that we will move from a “20th century built environment comprising concrete and steel, to a 21st century that lives in harmony with nature.”
Modernist architects often ask whether it is possible for a timber window to look right in a minimalist project, and the response is always ‘yes.’ People are increasingly incorporating timber into contemporary designs, combining modern Passivhaus standards with sustainable, carbon reducing materials. A great example is Hackbridge Passivhaus Plus Primary school, which is described as a modernist log cabin. Using contemporary machined timbers that are sleek and modern, unlike the rustic timber frames of the past, it is possible to achieve a minimalist aesthetic. Engineered timber is much less likely to twist and warp, meaning symmetry and form are easier to achieve than was the case with old timber buildings.
As timber window manufacturers, the increased use of timber in the built environment is heartening, but we still regularly face questions about the durability of timber windows and doors. This is a hangover from the poorly made,
ADF DECEMBER 2021
cheap wood windows used in low cost housing of the 1960s and 1970s which gave timber a bad name, ably fuelled by the strong marketing messages of the PVCu market. In fact, modern engineered timber windows are scientifically proven to last 65 years or more with minimal maintenance if made to approved standards. However, there is a role that architects can play in ensuring they last a lot longer than this.
The modernist styles of buildings incorporating flush windows and flat roofs is far from ideal when it comes to protecting buildings in a four season, temperate climate with wide variation in rainfall and temperature. In fact, water ingress is responsible for a high percentage of claims against architects. The technology developed in modernist design would have impressed architects of the late 19th century, but they would be surprised at the abandonment of precedent in vernacular design and detailing gleaned over centuries of trial and error.
There are a few things to consider when it comes to successfully incorporating timber windows and doors into a design. Where possible, protecting the building from rain and harsh sunlightis the key. From the foundations up, the act of displacing water away from the building extends the life of the windows as well as protecting the walls. For instance, overhanging eaves are great for helping to control temperature inside the building, as long as you can avoid cold bridging.
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It is possible to achieve a minimalist aesthetic using contemporary machined timbers
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