What's New - Domestic

View | 2008 | 2007 | 2006 | 2005 | 2004

SEPTEMBER 07 - OLD MEETS NEW



Modern apartment living is being given a fresh twist in Taunton with a prestigious development by Gadd Homes.

The 17 apartments created within the turn-of-the century former malt house feature the latest in luxury fixtures and fittings- even down to the ventilation. Passivent Mechanical Extract Ventilation (MEV) harnesses natural air movement, subtly boosted by one low energy fan per flat, to provide constant fresh air within without any need for conventional mechanical extraction.

Gadd Homes’ Alex Dunkel explains, “The Malthouse is a modern classic with its blend of historic character and contemporary design. The open plan living space meant we were keen to ensure buyers enjoyed their home to the maximum, without cooking smells, or moisture from cooking, washing or bathing impinging on the ambience. The Passivent system ensures any moisture or smells are effectively extracted, without having to physically switch on noisy ventilation.”

He adds, “From a selfish point of view, the Passivent system also makes our life easier. With intermittent extract fans, we would have to have at least one fan in each ‘wet’ room and a huge amount of background ventilation to achieve the Building Regulation requirements. This way, we comply using just the MEV system and 2500mm2 background ventilation in each ‘dry’ room.”

Passivent MEV relies on planned air routes through each apartment with air inlets in the ‘dry’ living rooms and bedrooms drawing fresh air into the home, with used, moisture laden air being extracted from the ‘wet’ kitchens and bathrooms by humidity sensitive extracts. The extracts are linked via ducting to a constantly running, low energy fan, and respond automatically to changes in relative humidity in the en-suite as the occupants wash and toilet, and boost extraction, via the discreetly located central extract fan. The system is specifically designed to each home, to ensure occupants enjoy a damp- and condensation- free environment without draughts.

Passivent is the only natural ventilation supplier to offer independent BBA certification across its range, proven in use for over 20 years. In addition to its assisted ventilation systems, it supplies a comprehensive range of background trickle ventilators, the Fresh range of through wall ventilators, and ‘whole house’ natural ventilation solutions, with or without acoustic options, all of which contribute towards efficient ventilation of the home with little or no energy consumption. Passivent is part of the Building Product Design Group, which specialises in developing innovative yet practical ventilation and roofing products in line with changing market requirements.

Back >