Prefab refurb: mathematical tiles

Article Abstract:

Mathematical tiles are proposed as a solution to the repair of aluminium prefabs (prefabricated houses.) Prefabs were constructed in England after World War II as a temporary solution to the housing crisis. Some prefabs, constructed of aluminium, were designated as permanent buildings but have suffered from corrosion. Aluminium bungalows at Crewe, England, were built in 1950. Owners want them refurbished in brick but this is expensive. Peter Bell and Partners have proposed mathematical tiles and have clad one wall of a bungalow as a demonstration. No decision has been reached on whether to proceed with more.

Maintenance and repair, Modular houses, Prefabricated houses

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Multi-storey masonry

Article Abstract:

The design proposed by architect Hunt Thompson for the Winterton House tower block in Tower Hamlets, London, meant that the block could be refurbished instead of having to be demolished and a new building created. The building was unusual in that it was steel-framed instead of concrete-framed as is more usual for domestic high rise blocks. After being stripped back, the frame would not be able to support heavier concrete floors and overcladding systems. Hunt Thompson's solution was for an independent, self-supporting brick wall outside the frame, thus offering a cavity for insulation.

Contracts, Design and construction, Public housing, High-rise apartment buildings, High rise apartment buildings, Hunt Thompson

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A taste of its own medicine

Article Abstract:

There are many challenges associated with the refurbishment of the European Commission's Berlaymont building in Brussels, Belgium, where asbestos was discovered in the early 1990s. The building's fixed spines make high levels of flexibility impossible, but open office or combi office arrangements could be viable. Various efforts are being made to ensure that the building becomes more user-friendly, including repositioning the entrance and installing a lobby with a lift stop at every floor.

Buildings and facilities, European Union. European Commission, Public buildings, Brussels, Belgium (City)

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