Editor’s Choice
TH E PE RF EC T INTE RI O R F O R P R E S E RVATI O N
The recently completed Herefordshire Archive and
Records Centre for Herefordshire Council is a
3,350sqm scheme comprising a concrete repository over three floors and two-storey timber framed
building housing offices, public search rooms and
education facilities. It incorporates clever architectural design and building construction technology
together with high performance materials.
The centre was designed by architects, Architype,
who are experienced in delivering to the Passivhaus
standard. The facility includes Troldtekt acoustic
panels, made with 100% natural wood fibres, which
the architects have previously specified for their
environmentally friendly schools. The panels’
benefits include high sound absorption, high
durability, natural breathability, low cost life cycle
performance and sustainability.
Herefordshire Council’s brief for the centre
required sophisticated energy solutions and reduced
running costs which the preservation and safeguarding of historic documents requires. Research
showed that a Passivhaus building would provide
the essential airtightness together with high levels
of thermal insulation to keep the interior isolated
from varying external temperatures and weather
conditions. The project also recognises many of
the recommendations expressed in a newly
published BSI guidance document (PD5454:2012)
for the storage and exhibition of archival material.
Danish manufactured Troldtekt acoustic tiles are
specified throughout the UK and Europe and can be
delivered as either FSC or PEFC certified panels.
They are manufactured using 100% natural wood
fibres and their benefits are high sound absorption,
high durability, natural breathability, low cost life
cycle performance and sustainability. They are used
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to improve acoustics in many different projects,
such as schools, leisure centres, pools, commercial
and public buildings. Available in various sizes and
in three grades from ultrafine to coarse, they can be
left unpainted or painted in virtually any RAL
colour.
Troldtekt sustainability has also been recognised
with certification at Silver level within the Cradle
to Cradle concept and earns gold on 4 out of 5
criteria in the Cradle to Cradle certification version
3.1. This international certification has been
achieved because the panels do not contain
hazardous substances and can be recycled.
For samples and comprehensive technical
information tel 01978 664255
or visit [email protected]