INCA Case Study: Gilton House, Bristol

Project summary

Gilton House stands as an example of how innovation, compliance, and aesthetics can combine to deliver a futureproof, safe and visually appealing residential space.

Delivered by K Systems in collaboration with Bristol City Council, gcp Architects, Bell Group and specialist installers Rateavon Ltd, this ambitious retrofit project successfully overcame significant challenges to deliver lasting impact for both residents and the wider community.

Construction challenge

The primary challenge at Gilton House was the urgent need to remove and replace an existing combustible EPS external wall insulation (EWI) system, following updated building regulations on fire safety.

The 10-storey social housing block is uniquely built on a podium structure above active commercial units, requiring meticulous planning to minimise disruption to business occupants while addressing safety concerns head-on.

Working at height, combined with the building’s mixed-use configuration, meant that the new solution not only had to achieve superior fire performance, but also offer robust impact resistance at ground floor level, while maintaining a strong aesthetic appeal for both residents and the cityscape.

The K Systems solution

To address the project’s complex technical and aesthetic requirements, a tailored solution from K Systems was specified. This combined different finishes to meet the unique needs of each elevation, while ensuring consistent performance and visual harmony across the entire façade.

• VBriQ+ (clay brick slips) were chosen for ground floor elevations due to its A1 classified non-combustibility, Category 1 impact resistance, and refined brick-effect aesthetic – essential for areas of high footfall and vehicular movement, such as car parks and entrances.
• From the first floor upwards, VBriQ (acrylic brick slips were selected for their lightweight structure, cost efficiency, and versatile design capabilities. This allowed the architect to create a striking, cohesive finish while reducing load on the existing structure

Both systems were installed with 140mm Rockwool DD slab insulation, delivering non-combustible performance and achieving an impressive U-value target of 0.24W/m²K, supporting long-term energy efficiency goals for the social housing sector.

Why K Systems?

K Systems was uniquely positioned to support this complex retrofit. The combination of fire safety credentials, aesthetic flexibility, and technical expertise ensured the solution not only met regulatory standards but also elevated the building’s visual presence within the community.

Our collaborative approach – working closely with architects, contractors, and local authorities – ensured seamless delivery in a live, constrained environment.

Conclusion

Gilton House showcases the strength of K Systems as a top-tier provider of EWI solutions, combining safety, efficiency, and architectural impact. As regulatory demands and aesthetic expectations continue to rise, K Systems remains at the forefront of the industry, proving that performance and design can go hand-in-hand.