Windows of opportunity

New Ecoplus System windows and doors installed at Magdalene College , Cambridge

Green Building Store's new Ecoplus System windows and external doors have recently been specified as part of an £11.5 million building project at Magdalene College , Cambridge , designed by Freeland Rees Roberts architects. Funding for the new ‘ Cripps Court ' came from a donation from the Cripps Foundation which aimed to provide facilities that the college did not already have, including a 144-seat auditorium, seminar rooms and 42 extra student bed-sittingrooms.

New Ecoplus System windows were in fact specifically redesigned for the project after the architects approached Green Building Store wanting a new window specification. Freeland Rees Roberts wanted the windows for Cripps Court to be in oak, because of its excellent external weathering properties, but were anxious to avoid the problems of movement that can occur. The New Ecoplus System prototype was developed as part of a collaboration between the architects and Green Building Store to resolve this problem. Designed in conjunction with the Timber Research and Development Association (TRADA), new Ecoplus System windows and doors utilise the latest lamination and finger joint technology to improve durability and minimise timber movement. According to Graham Riley of Freeland Rees Roberts (FRR) Architects, “The new Ecoplus System combines the high performance standards of modern windows with quality-engineered laminated European oak resulting in a highly durable timber window.”

The flexibility of Green Building Store's bespoke design service meant that the new Ecoplus System was able to fit a range of shapes and sizes, including gabled triangular windows and large glazed screens. Moreover, the Ecoplus System's European flush sash design gives it a contemporary profile suitable for both modern and traditional buildings, in keeping with the Cripps Court project.

Environmental concerns were another reason the new Ecoplus System windows and doors were specified. The use of laminated timber helps to minimise resource use, while the ultra-efficient low emissivity I-Plus glazing results in centre pane U-values of 1.2 w/m 2 K, far in excess of the current part L of the building requirements. Harmful toxic chemicals are minimised through the use of natural timber finishes. Subsequent to installation at Magdalene College , Green Building Store's new Ecoplus System windows, doors and solar spaces have been certified as being made from FSC-100% timber, a move which Graham Riley at FRR welcomes.

Architect: Freeland Rees Roberts Architects, 25 City Road , Cambridge CB1 1DP , Tel: 01223 366555, Fax: 01223 312882, info@frrarchitects.co.uk , www.frrarchitects.co.uk

Supplier: Green Building Store, 11 Huddersfield Road , Meltham, Holmfirth HD9 4NJ

Tel: 01484 461705, info@greenbuildingstore.co.uk , www.greenbuildingstore.co.uk