Tre Ifan | Caergeiliog

Development of six semi-detached low energy dwellings utilising homegrown Welsh timber MMC.

Realised as part of the Welsh Innovative Housing Programme, Tre Ifan is the first multi-unit social housing scheme to be built in Wales using Welsh timber-based, volumetric construction.

A continuation of our long-term collaboration with specialist timber manufacturer Kenton Jones during which we have explored modern methods of timber construction using homegrown timber, the project represents a significant advancement of technical and manufacturing scope for the collaboration: progressing from panellised component-based design to 3-dimensional volumetric manufacturing.
Funded under Year 2 of the Welsh Government’s Innovative Housing Programme, the project aimed to design, prototype and deliver six low energy, low carbon, affordable 2 bed 4 person homes, serving as exemplar housing for the Isle of Anglesey County Council. With an ambition to source all structural timber within 50 miles of the manufacturing centre and substantially reduce reliance on high carbon steel and concrete, the project set out with extremely high aspirations.

Located in the Northwest of Anglesey, Tre Ifan sits within the small village of Caergeiliog, which lies under the RAF Valley flight path, between the astonishing backdrop of Eryri National Park and the beautiful, exposed and harsh coast of the Irish Sea. Although an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the built environment of Anglesey itself, particularly in the immediate context, is simple and unremarkable: pebble dashed modest mid-century housing focused specifically on responding to the harsh environment with robustness. Tre Ifan forms an infill site within an existing estate of council owned homes.

The scheme forms 3 pairs of 2 bed, 4-person, semi-detached, affordable homes, designed to meet the Welsh Design Quality Requirements and attain exceptional fabric performance whilst also employing low carbon materials. Each property comprises 5 offsite fabricated modules, incorporating bathrooms, kitchens and primary living and sleeping spaces.

Originating as an R&D project led by the Welsh School of Architecture and woodland management charity Coed Cymru, the roots of Tre Ifan set a compelling aspiration to make better use of homegrown timber resources and the Welsh timber supply chain to create high quality, high value products capable of supporting and enabling a robust and sustainable natural woodland resource.

Despite the challenges of Covid, the project set out and delivered extremely high aspirations. In design we set out to advance our understanding of designing for volumetric – both in space planning within the tight constraints of the Welsh Design Quality Requirements, and resolving technical challenges. These included complex issues around foundations and ground junctions, airtightness and the integration of mechanical and electrical systems, particularly whole house MVHR – always a challenge even in ideal circumstances.

On the manufacturing side, the transition from a 2D component facility to a full volumetric housing factory was a major achievement. This involved extending the existing factory, developing new lifting strategies for both in-house operations and onsite installation, and assembling a multidisciplinary team capable of working within a factory environment to deliver exceptional levels of detail and quality. At every stage, the project prioritised sourcing local, low carbon materials and developing sustainable supply chains.

Manufactured entirely in a factory setting, the volumetric solution delivers significant reductions in both upfront embodied carbon and construction waste, compared to traditional masonry builds and 2D pre-manufactured components (Category 2 MMC). Each pair of homes was installed onsite in a single day as a weathertight structure, with factory based quality control ensuring extremely low levels of construction related defects – demonstrating the clear success of the approach.

The project combines homegrown timber with recycled newspaper insulation; triple glazed windows and doors; and locally sourced homegrown timber and natural slate finishes to the exterior and interior. The fabric was designed to minimise acoustic disturbance from the RAF flight path and delivered impressive high efficiency and performance levels as listed below:

Construction type
Off-site volumetric timber
Airtightness
<0.6m3/hr/m2
U-Value
0.12 – 0.15W/m2K
Energy Management
MVHR, space heating and Photovoltaics
EPC
93A
Tre Ifan demonstrates the potential for homegrown timber and modern methods of timber construction to dramatically transform the design and delivery of social housing in Wales. We believe it presents an exemplar of low energy and low carbon design realised from a 100% Welsh supply chain. The project is the first of a portfolio of exemplary volumetric homes and leisure buildings to be designed and manufactured by Hiraeth and Kenton Jones.
Category
New Build Social Housing
Status
Completed 2020
Location
Isle of Anglesey
Team
Isle of Anglesey County Council
Kenton Jones Ltd: Unnos Systems
Paramount Engineering
Recognition
Constructing Excellence Award
Hafod Copperworks
William Ainge Court
Castle Corner

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Heritage Surveyor & Administrator
BSc(Hons) MSc

Alice studied Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management at the University of South Wales. In 2022 she then completed a Masters in Architectural Conservation at the University of Edinburgh, which gave her a specialist knowledge of architectural history an understanding of traditional building techniques. Her dissertation addressed the use of Oral History as part of Architectural Conservation, fuelling her particular interest in sustainability and folk studies.

Alice joined Hiraeth Architecture in 2022 and is now applying this varied background to undertake the role of Heritage Surveyor. Her work includes Quinquennial Inspections for Monmouth and Llandaff Diocese, Conservation Management Plans and background, archival research on projects which include historic buildings or are sited within historic contexts.

Quality

We long for better and strive for excellence. Every project is an opportunity to create something special. A sense of belonging and timeless value. Our team has the skills, the knowledge and expertise, and the experience to deliver on quality.

Iterative

We employ all techniques at our disposal to design and convey ideas in a way that is relevant to the stage of the project and to the client. From surveys, hand sketching and physical models to complex 3D computer models, detailed line drawings, computer visualisations, prototyping, and samples boards. This keeps us experimenting, innovating and refining as the brief is ever more defined.

Thoughtfulness

We recognise our impact on the planet and the damage that construction and buildings-in-use can have. A thoughtful approach to siting and orientation, built fabric, passive measures, materials and methods of construction is key to our way of working.

Depth

We immerse ourselves in our projects. This is more than a job to us, this is our passion. We are driven by a commitment to: reduce carbon in construction and use; protect, enhance and sustain our heritage, community and landscape; and deliver on the trust our clients place in us.

Partnership

Trust, collaboration, respect and integrity are critical to the work we specialise in and the clients we seek. The industry is often a challenging environment, but we collaborate with manufacturers, contractors, consultants, and of course our clients, to challenge one another to realise the best possible outcomes.

Context

We arrive at our solutions after a rigorous analysis of the social, environmental, political, geographic and historical characteristics of the project. Each project and solution is distinctly different – deeply rooted in its context and unique place in this world. Context is everything.

Nicki Spiteri

Office Manager

Nicki, our fantastic Office Manager, joined the company in 2023 and plays a vital role in keeping the team organised and on track. She brings a well-rounded skill set, with experience in both the architecture and construction industries, ensuring the efficient running of the practice so everyone can focus on what we do best. Nicki is committed to fostering positive, trusted relationships with clients and consultants alike and serves as a reliable point of contact for any queries or concerns.

Hannah Cummings

Architectural Assistant

BA (Hons), MArch

Hannah is one of our Welsh School of Architecture contingent, having completed her Masters degree in 2021. During her studies, she explored contrasts within housing developments and how these reflect economic and social status culminating in a thesis on social supported living environments in the context of Dolphin’s Square, Westminster.

Her academic studies has shaped her interest in social housing and the relationship between psychology and living conditions. She also is particularly interested in the use of local (Welsh) skills and materials in architecture and construction, reflecting her commitment to sustainable, regionally inspired design.

Before joining Hiraeth in 2023, Hannah gained experience at the award winning practice Hyde + Hyde, contributing to a portfolio of high-end private residential projects. Now working as an Architectural Assistant, she is pursuing her RIBA Part 3 Diploma in Professional Practice while contributing to a range of community and residential projects, including the extension of Sant Y Nyll House and Pontneddfechan Community and Visitor Centre.

Alice Smith

Heritage Surveyor

BSc(Hons) MSc

Alice brings a unique skill set to the team, offering specialist expertise in architectural history and building conservation. She initially studied Quantity Surveying and Commercial Management at the University of South Wales but, inspired by her involvement in local church conservation, pursued a Masters in Architectural Conservation at the University of Edinburgh. This renowned programme provided her with in-depth knowledge of architectural history and understanding of traditional building techniques from first principles. Her dissertation explored the use of Oral History in Architectural Conservation, sparking a lasting interest in sustainability and folk studies.

Alice joined Hiraeth Architecture in 2022 and now applies her diverse background in her role of Heritage Surveyor. She has extensive experience conducting condition surveys, quinquennial inspections, and preparing Conservation Management Plans. Recent projects include Conservation Management Plans for Swansea University Wallace Building, Singleton Abbey, Swansea University’s Original Library, and the Grade 1 Listed Scheduled Ancient Monument of Oystermouth Castle. Alice also provides a valuable resource across the design team, leading historic and archival research while contributing to significance and heritage impact assessments. 

James Lawley

Project Technologist

HNC

Before joining Hiraeth Architecture James worked with several design led practices, both large and small, across the South West and South Wales.  During this time he gained valuable experience within a range of design sectors, including Masterplanning, Urban Design, Architecture and Specialist Conservation projects. Working within a comprehensive range of projects has resulted in an overarching and proficient portfolio, combining specialist expertise with robust, all-round competency.

James joined Hiraeth Architecture in 2021 and has since supported the team across a variety of projects spanning all RIBA Works Stages. Through the diverse range of projects at Hiraeth, James has cultivated a strong interest in the developing and applying traditional detailing and construction methods in the delivery of contemporary architecture, thoughtfully integrating advances in building technology, craftsmanship and sustainable low-energy design principles.

In addition to his comprehensive knowledge of technical software and Building Information Modelling, James serves as a technical lead. He recently led the technical design for Millers Place, a 100% affordable Passivhaus development of 40 apartments in Welshpool, and the conversion and renovation of Pond Cottage in Gnoll Park. James plays a key role in project delivery on-site, including Penllegare Visitor Centre, the reconfiguration of St Cleers church in Somerset and the extension of a primary school in Usk.

Carl Williams

Project Technologist

BSc(Hons)

As one of the original members of the Hiraeth team, Carl joined the practice in 2020, contributing extensive technical knowledge and experience aligned with the company’s specialisms, including both innovative modern methods of timber construction and traditional building techniques. He plays a key role in the team’s use of Building Information Modelling (BIM), encompassing collaborative 3D modelling and CAD / CAM processes.

Carl studied Architectural Design and Technology in Cardiff Metropolitan University, where he developed a strong interest in sustainable design and the importance of precise, well considered detailing to successfully realise architectural visions.

Throughout his career, Carl has contributed to a diverse range of projects, across all RIBA Work Stages. He has gained extensive expertise in specialist conservation work including direct involvement in securing statutory permissions for Planning and Listed Building Consents and administering construction contracts. His recent projects include the technical design and delivery of a new Visitor Centre for Gnoll Park and a modular timber house on Uist Island in the Outer Hebrides.

Chloe Sambell

Project Architect

Bsc(Hons) MArch(Hons) DipArch RIBA ARB

Chloe is a qualified Architect with SPAB conservation training, joining Hiraeth in 2019. Since then she has lead several key projects in the office across all RIBA work stages and been integral in securing consent for a number of particularly challenging projects. These include the re-envisioning and transformation of the under-used yard to the Grade II Listed Tramshed building in Cardiff and the extension to the Grade II Listed Capel y Groes in Cilycwm.

Chloe’s passion lies in user-centric design, and a carefully researched understanding of place. She combines rigorous problem solving with creative exploration to produce architectural solutions that enhance the special qualities and character of a site, giving careful consideration to each moment the building can offer – such as a view, the quality of light or the touch of materials.

She completed her Masters in Architecture with Distinction at the Welsh School of Architecture and was awarded the T Alwyn Lloyd Memorial, Foulkes Memorial and Wyn Thomas prizes. She has enjoyed returning to the school to support teaching in the second and fifth year studios and the Master of Urban Design course. More recently she also overseen the renovation of her own home, bringing her design philosophy into a personal context.

Dr Rob Thomas

Director + Passivhaus Certified Designer

BSc(Hons) MArch(Hons) PhD DipArch(Hons) RIBA ARB

Rob set up Hiraeth Architecture with Michael Plageman in 2019, to focus on the design and development of innovative timber architecture. Although always interested in timber based design and making, this interest took form during his time at the Welsh School of Architecture, where he worked with the university’s Design Research Unit Wales and Welsh woodland charity Coed Cymru to deliver a co-sponsored, design-led PhD, which he completed in 2011. His research explored innovative timber technologies using homegrown Welsh Sitka Spruce, with a focus on the application of modern methods of timber construction to the delivery of affordable housing. This work contributed to the development and certification of construction components and systems and the delivery of several award winning buildings, earning commendation in the RIBA President’s Awards for Research.

As a certified Passivhaus Designer, Rob integrates technical expertise with his passion for innovative and sustainable homes. At Hiraeth, he has delivered benchmark projects such as Tre Ifan and William Ainge Court, both affordable housing developments meeting Welsh Design Quality Requirements and Lifetime Homes standards. Notably William Ainge Court was Hiraeth’s first project to achieve Passivhaus certification.

Throughout his career, Rob has led the design and delivery of new-build, alteration and conservation projects from conception to completion. His portfolio includes a high performance replacement dwelling in the Welsh Valleys, a prefabricated large-span oak visitor building for the scheduled ancient monument of Cleeve Abbey, and visitor centres in Gnoll Park and Pontneddfechan. Beyond applied research in prefabricated system design, he has also led research studies into net zero whole life carbon housing for Wales and optimised retrofit strategies.

Since completing his studies, Rob has maintained close ties with the Welsh School of Architecture regularly contributing as an examiner, critic and tutor.

Michael Plageman

Director + RIBA Conservation Architect

BSc(Hons) BArch(Hons) DipArch MA DipCons(AA) CA RIBA ARB

Michael studied at the Welsh School of Architecture before completing the Architectural Association’s Postgraduate Diploma in Building Conservation in 2012. Combining academic study with over two decades of applied practice, he delivers a diverse skill set across all work stages and construction sectors, with particular specialisms in the conservation and management of change of sites and buildings of environmental, heritage, and communal significance.

Over his career he has established a broad portfolio of prestigious projects that includes conservation repairs and alterations to Chiswick House and Apsley House for English Heritage; new visitor centres within the Scheduled Ancient Monument of Raglan Castle and registered Historic Park and Garden of Penllergare Valley Woods; and the transformation of the grade II listed Kemeys Folly into a modern residence, featured on Grand Designs. Through his involvement in such prominent projects, he has demonstrated his ability to engage and connect effectively with the various communities and stakeholders who use and care for these important assets.

Michael is an active member for the Design Review Panel™, nationally providing impartial, constructive and expert design advice. He is a Quinquennial Inspector for the Llandaff and Monmouth Diocese, an elected member of the Monmouth Diocesan Advisory Committee, and also sits on the Archives Advisory Panel for the Royal Society of Architects in Wales. He founded Hiraeth Architecture in 2019, with fellow director Rob Thomas, applying his detailed knowledge of historic buildings with innovative new build solutions to embrace his interest in contextual design in the most sensitive of environments.

Jenny Clemence

Project Architect

BA(Hons) MArch PGCert ARB RIBA

Jenny joined Hiraeth in 2021 bringing extensive experience across all RIBA stages, with a particular focus on heritage, tourism, and community projects. Drawing from this background Jenny emphasises public consultation as a vital tool for understanding place and community needs, ensuring stakeholder values are embedded at the core of every project. Recently, Jenny led successful funding bids for the Gnoll Masterplan and designed new visitor facilities for Oystermouth Castle, to manage the changing needs of this Grade 1 Listed Scheduled Monument.

She studied at the University of Sheffield, earning a Distinction in her Masters degree, where her thesis and dissertation explored participatory design with homeless and displaced communities. Jenny has a strong interest in how well-designed spaces can transform social contexts, aiming to create a balance between atmosphere and functionality.

In 2018 she completed her RIBA Part 3 at the University of Nottingham. Since then she has returned to Nottingham as a visiting Collaborator with Studio 5A and has also worked as a design tutor at Loughborough University and a regular critic at the Welsh School of Architecture, enjoying the continued engagement with student design projects.

Jenny has worked with several design led practices in Wales and the North East gaining experience across multiple sectors for clients including the National Trust and Nottingham Trent University. Just before joining Hiraeth, she acted as design lead for a product start-up to develop and prototype a sustainable garden module addressing the rise in home working brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, while aligning with key sustainability targets set out in the 2030 RIBA Climate Challenge (Commercial).