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The Muse

Project Profile – The Muse, London, N16 9PX (rear of Stoke Newington Green)

Project description – Construction of a Two storey modern mixed use Mews with residential and office accommodation. The building was commenced in 2000 on an infill site behind terraces of Georgian and older buildings; some of which are Grade 1 Listed. Works have been a labour of love for the Architect/Owner – Justin Bere – who occupies the building both with his practice and with his family. The works are substantially complete but some works remaining outstanding.  The property is largely hidden from the road, but is accessed from Newington Green and a gated entrance to Poet’s Road which was added to prevent any unnecessary intrusions or fly tipping.

Consultant – Justin Bere is a Director of Bere Architects. A firm who specialise in Passivhaus projects designed to provide sustainable, healthy, comfortable buildings that perform well and look beautiful. Justin is the author of ‘An introduction to Passive House’ published by the RIBA.

Budget – Undisclosed.

Design Inspirations – The Design of the property is intended to create a ‘green oasis’ in a contrasting environment with a modern building behind all traditional terraces. Justin as the client has been able to use his expertise to produce a bespoke living and working space for his needs. 

The site restrictions required an innovative approach to design and in particular the use of light. His longitude design allows light in from both sides. 

Justin Bere uses or applies Passivhaus to design the whole house. This concept reduces the permitted space heating demand and primary energy consumption for a building. It applies a robust energy performance specification and utilises the concept of holistic low energy design. Passivhaus standards impose an overall limit in the primary energy consumption which promotes energy efficiency in all areas. 

In a Passivhaus thermal comfort is achieved through the use of passive measures, through the application of:-

  1. Good levels of ventilation and minimal thermal bridges
  2. Passive solar gains and internal sources
  3. Excellent air tightness 
  4. Good indoor air quality provided by  mechanical whole house ventilation system
  5. The use of highly efficient heat recovery

Justin produced the first certified Passivhaus building in London in 2010 and is now recognised as one of the most influential people in UK sustainability.

Project Notes and Timescale – Works have been a labour of love for the Architect/Owner – Justin Bere – some works remaining outstanding.  The building is occupied but works are ongoing.

Technological appraisal and Review – The building has impressive green credentials and materials have been used for its construction reflect the need for building to provide the optimal energy responses to its environment. 

Future Mews Projects  – Justin is currently working both on this project and other Mews Projects.

Contact Details – Justin Bere, Bere Architects , 54A Newington Green, London, N16 9PX/ 73 Poets Road, London, N5 2SH  email:- info@bere.co.uk Telephone:- +44 (0) 207 241 1064

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