CANALSIDE LANDMARK

VELFAC glazing has been specified throughout this light-filled self-build in Yorkshire

VELFAC aluminium/timber windows and doors have been installed in an ambitious ‘industrial feel’ self-build house in Boroughbridge, Yorkshire. The system was specified for its ultra-thin composite frame, architectural versatility and energy-efficient performance. “My clients wanted stylish, sustainable, open plan living, with large amounts of natural light — they had seen the system at an exhibition and were very impressed with the slim, composite frame design, especially the use of external aluminium,” says architect Suzanne Fowler, of Crescent Architecture and Design. “The system’s low U values also helped us build to Code 4 for Sustainable Homes standards.” On the canal-facing façade, VELFAC windows have been installed in ribbon runs and also used to create a full-height glazed wall which rises from the ground floor French doors up to triangular lights under the eaves. Uniform sightlines – a key feature of the VELFAC frame design – deliver a clean, flat external finish, even when fixed and opening units are installed together. Suzanne’s design also references the old wharf buildings which used to line the banks of the canal. External façades com- bine locally sourced facing brick with black stained Siberian larch, with VELFAC aluminium frames finished in dark grey. Inner timber frames are also painted dark grey. “This adds interest to the large, white spaces,” says Suzanne, “and also links to other architectural features such as the grey balustrade on the mezzanine which crosses the central space — again adding an industrial feel.” For more information about VELFAC, visit velfac.co.uk.