Case Study
Plas Melinydd
Location:
Newtown, Mid-Wales
Project type:
Residential development
Project value:
£4 million
Client:
MWP Developments
Completion:
2024
Project overview
JPS provided structural engineering design services for Plas Melinydd, a 40-apartment affordable housing development in Newtown, Mid-Wales. Delivered by MWP Developments for Barcud Housing Association, the scheme has been designed to provide high-quality, energy-efficient homes within the town centre. Working in collaboration with Hiraeth Architects, JPS developed the structural design for the Passivhaus-certified building, incorporating reinforced raft foundations and a timber-frame superstructure. The project places a strong emphasis on thermal performance and sustainability, creating modern living spaces that meet rigorous energy-efficiency standards while supporting the provision of much-needed affordable housing.
The engineering challenge
The scheme presented several challenges, including:
- Designing a structural solution that complied with the stringent thermal performance requirements of Passivhaus certification while maintaining structural efficiency.
- Developing foundation details that minimised thermal bridging and supported the highly insulated building envelope.
- Integrating reinforced raft foundations and timber-frame construction in a way that aligned with demanding energy-efficiency standards.
- Ensuring all structural details complemented the architectural vision while delivering high-quality, affordable residential accommodation.
- Creating a durable and practical structure capable of achieving long-term performance targets in a town-centre residential development.
The engineering solution
JPS was responsible for:
- Collaborated closely with Hiraeth Architects and MWP Developments throughout the design process to ensure structural and architectural requirements were fully coordinated.
- Designed highly insulated reinforced raft foundations to support the building while contributing to the thermal efficiency objectives required for Passivhaus certification.
- Developed a timber-frame superstructure that provided an efficient, sustainable and thermally effective construction solution.
- Carefully detailed structural connections and construction. elements to align with Passivhaus standards and minimise heat loss.
The outcome
- Delivered the structural design for a 40-apartment affordable housing development that supports the housing needs of the local community.
- Achieved a structural solution fully aligned with Passivhaus certification requirements, helping to maximise energy efficiency and reduce operational energy demand.
- Created a highly thermally efficient building that offers comfortable, high-quality living accommodation for residents
- Supported the successful integration of sustainable construction methods through the use of insulated raft foundations and timber-frame construction.
- Strengthened JPS’s track record in delivering Passivhaus-certified developments, building on a successful partnership with MWP Developments and contributing to the delivery of sustainable housing in Mid-Wales.
