This Pocket Living residential development in Barking features highly effective thermal performance and an attractive appearance thanks to an integrated package of insulation and exterior façade products provided by Sto. The StoTherm Mineral external wall insulation system, Sto-Rotofix Plus fixings and Sto Resin Brick Slip façade finish were all specified for the project.

The development includes two residential blocks, which are predominantly four-storey, but which rise to six floors at certain points. These were built using off-site prefabrication methods to reduce disruption to the surrounding area during construction. “When it came to thermal performance we wanted an insulation solution that would be non-combustible and compatible with the off-site approach,” comments Matt Watts of Reed Watts architects. “The quality of the EWI system was also critical as the building had to meet a wide range of performance criteria, and the StoTherm Mineral external wall insulation system was able to satisfy this.

“We worked with Sto to refine the texture and colour of the bricks. From a visual perspective this allowed us to tie in the development with neighbouring buildings, including an adjacent Victorian waterworks.”

The BBA-certified StoTherm Mineral external wall insulation system incorporates durable mineral-fibre boards which provide outstanding thermal insulation and unrivalled fire protection. They are strengthened by a reinforcing mesh which increases their resistance to impact damage.

“We installed these using the Sto-Rotofix Plus fixings,” adds Steve Beale of Sto authorized installation specialist, Alpine Finishing. “The off-site nature of the buildings’ construction meant that the boards were applied to a secondary lightweight steel frame, and the Rotofix system was perfectly suited to the task.”

These unique Sto spiral fixings are compatible with many different substrates and can be adjusted after installation to accommodate any unevenness. This allows boards to be installed without any additional expansion joints, and creates a smooth, even surface ready for finishing.The Sto resin brick slips are manufactured from synthetic render, and combine durable weatherproofing with a realistic, simulated brick appearance.

Fully compatible with Sto EWI systems these lightweight, vapour-permeable slips offer a virtually unlimited range of design, size and colour options, and are an approved finish in a BBA certificate, as a result of thorough R&D testing.

The Pocket Living development offers 78 affordable one-bedroom flats to local, first-time buyers. It incorporates secluded courtyard gardens, an allotment area and other outdoor social spaces. It also features a shared home-working space for use by the residents.