Ray Park Visitors Centre
- Client:
- London Borough of Redbridge
- Consultant:
- Burke Hunter Adam
- Value:
- £1,090,000
- Duration:
- 38 Weeks
- Form of Contract:
- JCT Design & Build 2005
- Procurement Method:
- Tendered
Overview
Thomas Sinden were appointed as Main Contractor to undertake the demolition of Ray House and the Construction of a new Visitors Centre, located within Ray Park. The new building is constructed with strip foundations on a ground bearing concrete slab. Steel frame, and exposed timber truss roof structure with galvanised corrugated metal sheet covering glazed north lights. External windows, doors and screens are double glazed painted timber construction; ventilation lourvres and frames; a corrugated GRP canopy extends over the front entrance along the front elevation.
Sustainability Initiatives
This building was an exemplar project for sustainability, featuring a number of energy saving innovations such as:
Biomass boiler system
Solar panels
Earth Tube Ventilation System
Warm cell insulation in the wall construction
The Roof is designed with multiple pitches, the south facing shallow pitches support solar thermal collectors and the north facing sleepers pitches allow good roof light. An external translucent canopy defines a large forecourt to the West that acts as a gathering zone and outdoor exhibition area. To the south a parterre with raised planting beds grows edible species and herbs to be used in the cafe.