Project Description

Deben Fields is a major residential development in Felixstowe, being delivered by Kier Construction, providing a mix of apartment blocks and housing as part of a wider regeneration scheme.

Having previously worked with Kier Construction on multiple projects, Eden Facades was appointed to deliver the external façade package for the development.

Project overview

Our scope included the installation of the full external wall build-up across four apartment blocks and multiple housing plots, incorporating brick slip systems, render systems, copings, soffits, flashings, decking and associated façade detailing.

The scale and variety of the development required careful coordination, practical problem-solving and close collaboration throughout the delivery phase.

The development was also designed to support Passivhaus standards, which focus on reducing energy consumption while maintaining high comfort levels, placing additional importance on the quality, coordination and performance of the external envelope.

Eden Facades was involved in supporting the design from the early stages, providing input and drawings for key façade elements, including fire-barrier layouts, and copings. This helped ensure the architect’s intent could be translated into a compliant, buildable façade system.

The initial specification included STO brick slip, render and StoVentec systems. However, a month before works were set to commence, we received news that STO had entered liquidation in the UK, creating a major challenge at a critical stage of the programme.

Working closely with Kier and the wider design team, Eden Facades supported the redesign of the façade package by developing a compliant, like-for-like alternative using Benx systems, helping to maintain programme continuity and minimise disruption to the project.

Harrison Michaelson, Project Quantity Surveyor at Eden Facades, explains:

“We had already supported the project with design input across key façade elements, but when the originally specified system was no longer available, the package required a complete redesign. We worked closely with Kier to develop a compliant alternative solution that maintained the architect’s intent while ensuring the systems met all relevant industry requirements and performance standards.”

He adds:

“We provided detailed drawings for the fire barrier layout, copings and window flashings to support coordination across the project. The focus throughout was ensuring the revised façade system remained fully compliant, practical to install and aligned with the overall design intent.”

A coordinated façade build-up across multiple blocks

The Benx system utilises a bracket-and-rail support structure combined with RenderFlex boards, which are reinforced with a high performance mesh bedded in a base coat render, and finished with decorative silicone render or brick-slips , depending on the elevation design.

Alongside the main façade package, Eden Facades also delivered soffits, aluminium copings, window and door flashings, and RYNO decking elements across the scheme.

A key challenge throughout installation involved ensuring the brick slip areas were visually aligned with the surrounding traditional brickwork already installed on the project. As Steve Mountford, Senior Site Manager at Eden Facades, explains:

“We had to carefully follow the traditional brickwork lines already installed on the project, so the brick slip areas blended naturally with the surrounding elevations. We used laser alignment throughout to keep the lines as consistent as possible across the façade, and the finished result looks really good.”

Adapting installation methods on a live multi-trade development

The scale and sequencing of the project created several logistical and access challenges throughout delivery, particularly as work progressed simultaneously across multiple live work areas.

While scaffold access had originally been installed across the development, changing programme requirements and the need to release work areas back to groundworkers and other trades meant that sections were progressively removed as the project advanced.

As a result, Eden Facades adapted its installation approach to continue façade works safely and efficiently.

Steve explains:

“As the project progressed, areas needed to be released back to other trades. From that point onwards, we were carrying out the works using scissor lifts and cherry pickers, alongside tower access in certain locations.”

Working within a busy live construction environment also required close communication with Kier Construction and the wider project team, particularly around exclusion zones, access planning and sequencing between trades.

“On projects of this scale, you’re working around multiple trades at all times. Certain areas could only become available at specific stages, so communication and planning were essential to keeping the façade works progressing safely and efficiently,” Steve adds.

Managing programme pressures and material lead times

As with many large residential projects, delivery was also influenced by programme changes, weather conditions and material lead times throughout the build.

Render installation, in particular, required careful planning around weather conditions, while long lead times for key façade materials created additional coordination pressures across the programme.

“There are lots of moving parts on a project this size. You’re coordinating materials, access, weather conditions and other trades all at the same time, so keeping communication open across the site team is really important,” Steve comments.

Despite the challenges, the project highlights the importance of adaptability, collaboration and practical façade expertise in delivering large-scale residential developments.

A collaborative approach to delivery

The close working relationship with Kier and the wider project team has been key throughout the scheme, particularly as the project adapted to specification changes and evolving site conditions.

Steve concludes:

“There have definitely been challenges throughout the project, but the way the team has adapted and worked together has made a huge difference. Everyone’s stayed focused on finding practical solutions and keeping the project moving forward.”

Michael Rose, Senior Site Manager at Kier, adds:

“Eden Façades consistently demonstrate reliability, exceptional quality, and a strong commitment to QA, delivering work to a very high standard. Safety is clearly a priority for the Eden teams; they work extremely safely and maintain all mandatory training requirements set by Kier.

“The Eden Facades’ management and supervision team have been a pleasure to work with. They are professional, well-organised, and proactive, with excellent communication skills and a collaborative approach. Their support, attention to detail, and commitment to high standards have contributed positively throughout the project… Overall, they have been a genuine joy to work with.”

Need support with a complex façade package? Speak to us about an upcoming project by giving us a call on 01268 744199 or emailing enquiries@harwood.uk.com