The building formerly consisted of stable blocks and after discussions between AV Architecture, 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, AV Architecture 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 Catnic Urban Roofing and Cladding system was specified. A cost-effective alternative to traditional copper and zinc systems, Catnic Urban has a Confidex Home guarantee and is suitable for roofs with pitches as low as 5°.
In addition, the experienced team from Catnic visited the site, took measurements of the building and produced technical drawings of the roofing system to assist the project delivery team.
“It is our belief that with any restoration project you should specify a modern intervention – it should be ‘of a time’. 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 Catnic Urban roofing and cladding system, 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, allowing us to create a bespoke lean-to structure and being 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 underpinning.
“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 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.”
