Timeline: 7 Months
In partnership with Sheffield City Council, Amvic ICF supported the construction of a unique earth-sheltered school in South Yorkshire. This innovative serves as a blueprint for future sustainable development, harnessing the potential of modern construction techniques to achieve energy efficiency, durability, and aesthetic harmony with the surrounding environment.
Amvic’s ICF system, comprising robust polystyrene forms, provided a seamless and efficient solution for the project’s demanding requirements. Initially selected for its cost-effective and rapid installation capabilities, the ICF system was first proposed for the retaining wall along the school’s rear elevation. However, subsequent feasibility studies highlighted its benefits for the entire structural shell. The system’s exceptional thermal performance, with a U-value of just 0.15 W/sqm.K, helped to offset the large glazed facade, achieving superior energy efficiency without complicating the construction process.
The project required meticulous co–ordination between stakeholders. Amvic’s technical team collaborated with the council’s design team to draft a comprehensive tender package. The main contract was awarded to W M Birch & Sons, with Amvic’s in-house construction team acting as the specialist subcontractor. Within just five weeks, the team completed the school’s structural shell and retaining walls, setting a benchmark for speed and precision.
A significant challenge was the need to balance the energy demands of the extensively glazed facade with the building’s overall performance. The Amvic ICF system addressed this with its superior insulation properties, demonstrating that modern materials can harmonise functionality with sustainability.
This project underscores the benefits of adopting innovative construction methods:
Faster construction times translated to reduced labour costs and project timelines.
The Amvic ICF system’s environmental benefits align with green building standards, making it a suitable choice for eco-conscious projects.
The system’s adaptability was instrumental in meeting diverse design and structural requirements.
