Catnic raises the roof

Housing Fri, Aug 25, 2017 6:09 AM

Manor Farm House is a Grade II listed building in Monmouthshire. Having recently been converted from dilapidated stables into two new residential dwellings - the project has benefitted from Catnic’s lightweight, durable and quick to install SSR2 Roofing and Cladding system.

Specified by AVArchitecture, the system was used to create a unique lean-to structure. The results helped to meet the aesthetic and heritage demands set by Monmouthshire County Council as well as minimise installation time.

Manor Farm House is situated within a modern estate and curtilage-listed site in Rogiet, Monmouthshire. The building formerly consisted of stable blocks and after discussions between AVArchitecture, Monmouthshire County Council and the building owners, the decision was made to convert the stables into two contemporary residential units, yet crucially - respecting the materials, colours and detailing of their rural setting.

As such, AVArchitecture required a roofing and cladding system that was versatile, easy to install, and one that could offer the appearance of lead to complement the agricultural style of the existing building and the modern lean-to structure. As such, Catnic’s pre-coated metal standing seam SSR2 Roofing and Cladding system was specified. A cost-effective alternative to traditional copper and zinc systems, SSR2 has a lifetime guarantee and is suitable for roofs with pitches as low as 5o.

“It is our belief that with any addition to a restoration project you should adopt a contemporary ethos and introduce a modern intervention – it should be ‘of a time’ – a clear punctuation between old and new,” said Andrew Venables, Principal Architect at AVArchitecture. “However at Manor Farm House, due to the requirements from the council, it was critical for the roofing system used on the new lean-to structure to reflect the original heritage design of the existing building - so striking the right balance was very important.

With the SSR2 Roofing and Cladding system from Catnic, the material quality and colour palette blends naturally with the surrounding environment and reflects the existing building well, yet also helps to achieve the contemporary aesthetics. The system also allowed us to pitch the roof very low, enabling us to create a bespoke lean-to structure that’s lightweight and easier to install than copper or zinc – it met all performance and design requirements.”

However the project was not without its challenges. For example, the existing structure was collapsing and required urgent propping underpinning. Steve Burchell, Director of Building and Conservation Specialist Thorteck Ltd explained:

“With the need to work quickly due to the problems with the foundations, it was crucial we had a roofing system that offered significant ease of installation. The SSR2 Roofing and Cladding system fit the bill perfectly and allowed us to deliver a high quality finish in just five days. The system incorporates a simple locking design and is incredibly lightweight, which made it really straightforward to handle and install on site. Catnic’s technical team were also very helpful, providing technical and installation advice whenever we needed it.”

Gareth Holvey, Technical Manager at Catnic concluded: “For Manor Farm House the SSR2 system was manufactured in the exact length, width and breadth needed and delivered to site. We were also pleased to provide the technical support necessary to help AVArchitecture and Thorteck Ltd transform the stables into two contemporary residential properties - all whilst preserving the site’s rich agricultural heritage.”

Available in a range of contemporary colours, the SSR² Roofing and Cladding system is manufactured from Tata Steel’s Colorcoat HPS200 Ultra pre-finished steel.