Designed by the UK-based architectural firm Lewis & Hickey Architects, the new building has incorporated bespoke rainscreen and bespoke architectural facade systems from Sotech. For the external application on the project, Sotech provided Optima TFC system in Alucobond 500 silver and Anthracite grey.
The installation was overseen by main contractor Ocon. The Optima TFC system was found to be durable with low maintenance. The system is also designed to be easily demountable with individual panels for replacement or inspection purposes. This made it suitable for a student project where robustness combined with a contemporary and stylish look was required.
Optima TFC has been developed as an economical alternative to a complete secret fix rainscreen. The engineering of the system retains the benefits of a drained and ventilated façade while its manufacturing techniques also ensure there is no build-up of metal thicknesses at the cruciform joint. Optima TFC is engineered to seamlessly integrate with all other building façade elements, such as windows, doors and louvres and all fixings used in the systems are stainless steel.
Completed in three phases in 162 weeks, Chettles Yard student accommodation centre used Sotech products in all the three phases. Sprawling over 10 acres , the building comprises of 1,063 student accommodation units across seven blocks, 19,000 square feet of retail accommodation split into six units, a 15,000 square feet magnet store and seven further light industrial/retail units.
Chettles Yard student accommodation centre also features a number of green features in both colour and design. It includes biomass boilers and rainwater harvesting.
