HOWARTH TIMBER CLADDING PUTS THE FINISHING TOUCH ON OXFORDSHIRE RETIREMENT VILLAGE

Howarth Timber and Building Supplies has put the finishing touch on the Richmond Witney Retirement Village, with the installation of attractive ArborClad Clear Pine cladding.

The newly-constructed £32 million project was designed by PRC Architecture and built by BAM. The design called for a village atmosphere, with architectural features that reflect the local vernacular.

Howarth Timber’s ArborClad Clear Pine cladding was specified because of its attractive appearance and sustainability benefits, and is incorporated across entire elevations on selected buildings and as a unifying factor on others. As well as supplying the Clear Pine cladding, Howarth Timber machined to profile and finished the corner moulds and fascias, providing a streamlined service.

The thermally modified timber cladding is virtually knot-free, while the non-chemical treatment makes the cladding resistant to moisture and means that it won’t warp or swell and will weather evenly to a clean silver-grey colour.

Clear Pine requires minimal maintenance and is available PEFC certified on request. Its low cost and attractive aesthetic make it a viable alternative to more expensive Western Red Cedar, which is often specified for its largely knot-free rich tones.

Explaining the benefits of ArborClad Clear Pine cladding, Phil Barman, cladding specialist at Howarth Timber and Building Supplies, said: “As well as offering sustainability benefits, timber cladding looks very effective, and thermally modified Clear Pine offers a low-maintenance, long-lived solution.

“Our Clear Pine product is able to withstand moisture and - unlike some untreated soft-woods – it won’t warp or swell, while the lack of harsh chemicals further limits its environmental impact. Properly fitted, Clear Pine will last for a very long time which makes it an ideal choice for this project.”

The retirement village comprises a 60-bed village care centre, 47 care suites with associated accommodation and 79 close care apartments. The village also includes a wellness spa and restaurant to provide independent living for older people.