A new medical centre in Birmingham is in tune with its environment, thanks to cedar shingles supplied for the roof and top section of the vertical external walls by John Brash.
The architects, London-based Cottrell & Vermeulen Architecture, specified Western Red cedar shingles for All Saints Medical Centre in Kings Heath in order to complement its surroundings.
The fact that the property is surrounded by trees meant the architect was looking for something that weathered well and shingles proved to be the perfect solution. Over time, Western Red cedar shingles change to a silvery grey colour that blends with the natural environment.
Architect Marie Wolstenholm explained: “We worked closely with both the client and planning authorities on this project as they were looking for a design that fitted in with the surrounding wooded areas, in addition to being sympathetic to the historic church on the same site.”
The roof was designed with a subtle ‘twist’ that meant it progressed from a 24 degree slope at one end to a 14 degree slope at the other.
This was done to meet the needs of the planning authorities who were keen to keep the profile of the building as low as possible. At its lowest point, adjacent to the street, the roof has a 24 degree slope, which was possible because of a mezzanine plant room underneath, which didn’t require the same height clearance. The highest part of the building, at the other end of the roof, has a 14 degree slope and beneath this is a stair well and lobby area which is open floor to ceiling.
Marie Wolstenholm said: “Designing the roof with a ‘twist’ allowed us to create a more expressive roof shape which helped meet planning requirements for a low profile building. The twist also enabled us to accommodate a complicated roof geometry with one smooth expressive shape that blends perfectly with the surroundings. The twist can also be seen from the underside of the roof in the lobby area which creates a much more fluid feel to the inside of the building.”
The John Brash Western Red Cedar Shingles used on this project are taper sawn and have a relatively smooth face and back. Three standard lengths are available including 400mm (XXXXX), 450mm (Perfections) and 600mm (Royals). 400mm is the most commonly used size and was the choice for All Saints Medical Centre.
John Brash’s premium grade preservative treated Western Red Cedar Shingles were fitted by contractors My-Ply Systems and Reed Roofing (Midlands), both of which are part of the Copal Group.
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