VIVIX® by Formica Group delivers a natural touch to school facade

When David Turnock Architects were commissioned to design the new Silsoe Church of England VC Lower School layout, a compact building plan was requested to keep construction costs to a minimum. With a fabric first approach and emphasis on energy efficiencies, VIVIX® by Formica Group panels were specified for the facade.

The design brief called for a blend of natural woodgrains to be placed in a random pattern on the building to complement the white render areas, while making the bold colour choices of the window frames pop, as a signature design feature. 8mm thick VIVIX® architectural panels in Golden Morning Oak, Mission Oak and Barn Oak were selected for the facade; meeting the design requirement for a wooden cladding aesthetic, but providing superior performance properties in terms of durability and insulation than its natural counterpart. Furthermore, the panels require no additional post or pre-installation treatments, making the façade almost maintenance free.

Complementing the school’s steel frame, which was chosen for ease and speed of construction, the lightweight nature of VIVIX panels afforded an ease of installation. Furthermore, the durability and weather resistant properties of VIVIX means it will maintain its aesthetic integrity overtime, which is ideal for projects where budget constraints are in place, but a compromise on quality and functionality is not.

All VIVIX panels for the Silsoe school project were manufactured by Formica Group in the UK, reducing on material transportation and the overall project carbon footprint.