Islington Borough Council needed to increase the capacity of the bin stores serving high-rise residential blocks in Malta Street. This required a solution that combined low lifecycle cost with a pleasant appearance.

Two of the stores were demolished and new foundations were formed. Hyssop Project constructed walls from solid 225mm thermalite blockwork and the roof structure from traditional timber joists with ply decking for structural strength and durability.

The blockwork surface was coated with an anti-crack specialist decorative Sto-render gray finish, to provide a 25-year life with no maintenance. Bespoke aluminium fascia boards were fabricated for the circumference of the roof and entrance canopy and refuse stores.

Specifying a green ‘living’ roof provided insulation and an aesthetically attractive and environmentally friendly solution.

Moreover, using extremely durable, low-maintenance materials provided value for money and reduced the client’s long-term costs.