Eco-residences

UPP is bringing its award-winning eco-residences to the University of Exeter Birks Grange development. They combine top-style living accommodation alongside the newest in green technology. They have a BREEAM "excellent" rating.

Townhouses

Each of the 9 Townhouses being built will accommodate twelve students in an independent home environment within the greater development. 

They present sustainable solutions at both construction phase and internally during the life of the development:

Construction

• Panellised timber frame manufactured off site, reduces waste in production process
• Only timber from FSC accredited sources is used
• Showers, wash-basins and toilets delivered in pre-fabricated pods – again reducing waste during production process
• A commitment to sourcing materials from renewable sources wherever possible
• Latest insulation standards and a high degree of air-tightness create an energy-efficient home
• Exterior is brick-work at low level areas, with cement cladding and cedar cladding at higher levels

Internally

• Low energy fittings throughout. Communal areas have detectors to ensure lights are switched off when spaces aren’t being used
• Heat recovery system operates with extract ventilation serving shower and washbasin areas, providing warm air for internal circulation areas
• Solar thermal roof panels reduce demand on the high-efficiency, gas-condensing boiler
• Low flow rate systems used for washbasins and showers; toilet systems are dual flush
• Sustainable drainage system allows for on-site retention of drainage water
• BMS system constantly monitors consumption of gas, electricity and water with the information available to students via the internet
• Water-based paints and coatings used wherever possible