Eurocell plc

Eurocell’s market leading PVC-U window profiles, technical expertise, and commitment to a sustainable future, is helping to underpin the success of a major ongoing property maintenance and refurbishment project in Birmingham. As a result of the work undertaken in tandem with project lead, construction company, Wates, and fabrication partner, Shelforce, many of Birmingham’s social housing tenants are now benefiting from improved property insulation, lower energy bills, and aesthetically pleasing building exteriors, thanks to the specification and installation of new attractive windows with a minimum design life expectancy of 35 years.  

Eurocell’s Logik PVC-U window solution has been specified across a number of schemes being developed by student accommodation provider, Study Inn. As an aesthetically pleasing and high performing alternative to aluminium frames, Logik is also delivering sustainability and cost efficiency benefits.

Challenge Cambridge City Council set out to retrofit 46 homes, aiming to significantly enhance energy efficiency through improved insulation, airtightness, and ventilation.This initiative forms part of the UK Government’s £3.8 billion Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund: Wave 2.1, supporting the council’s goal to achieve Net Zero Operational Energy - where energy consumption equals renewable energy generated on-site.Cambridge City Council had the complex challenge of implementing high-performance energy solutions while balancing sustainability, affordability, and timely delivery. A key challenge was selecting materials that met strict criteria for low embodied carbon and recyclability, all while ensuring the comfort and well-being of residents.Solution Cambridge City Council partnered with Eurocell, Aran Insulation, Asset Fineline, and Saint-Gobain to deliver a fully closed-loop PVC-U recycling project as part of their housing retrofit programme. A cornerstone of the thermal upgrades was Eurocell’s Modus 75mm triple-glazed window system, achieving a U-Value of 0.8. These windows not only offered high thermal performance, significantly reducing heat loss and helping the homes meet strict energy efficiency targets but could also be fully recycled at the end of their lifespan. Through the closed-loop recycling process, implemented by Eurocell and Asset Fineline, the old PVC-U windows were removed, collected, recycled and manufactured into new frames, significantly reducing waste and embodied carbon, aligning with the project's sustainability goals. Saint-Gobain further contributed via its Glass Forever program recycling end-of-life glass and producing high-performance glazing to complement the Modus window system.Aran Insulation were appointed by Cambridge City Council as Principal Contractor for their SHDF Wave 2.1 programme. As a Principal Contractor, Aran Insulation works with a high-quality local supply chain, supporting their commitment to social value. Aran Insulation appointed Asset Fineline to cover all their window and door requirements, including recycling the old glass sealed units. OutcomeThe 46 retrofitted homes now offer warmer, more comfortable living environments, while significantly reducing energy consumption and costs for residents. By integrating a closed-loop recycling process, the project minimised its carbon footprint, supporting Cambridge City Council’s sustainability strategy. The collaboration between Eurocell, Aran Insulation, Asset Fineline, and Saint-Gobain ensured the project was delivered on time and within budget, setting a new benchmark for energy-efficient social housing retrofits.Aran Insulation Operations Director, Craig Thomson, visited homes included in the project and reported:"Aran are proud to be working with Cambridge City Council on this project. The consistent and superior finish across the project is some of the best work I have ever seen. The quality control, provided by our team, and co-operation on site demonstrates the whole team are working well together.”Kelly Hibbert, Head of Commercial Sales at Eurocell, stated: "The Modus window system played a key role in achieving a seamless aesthetic design, while also delivering considerable cost savings. Combining exceptional energy efficiency with sustainability, the system incorporates 50% recycled material, underscoring its environmental credentials. This project highlights how the right sustainable specification can deliver a contemporary design without compromise.”Darren Sowter, Divisional Director at Asset Fineline, highlighted the importance of teamwork: "This project serves as a prime example of how effective collaboration can lead to the successful delivery of high-quality, energy-efficient solutions. It showcases that we can meet and exceed expectations without compromising on budget or timelines, ultimately benefiting both our clients and the environment.”

Lauren was concerned that the fluctuations in temperature and humidity would result in cracking and warping of timber skirting in the newly refurbished bathrooms, so opted for PVC-U skirting

High quality, increased security and an aspirational aesthetic led Dere Street Homes to use the Eurocell Modus Flush Sash window system and the Aspect bi-folding door system in its new luxury housing development - Wynyard Rise in Billingham.

Challenges Encountered in Redeveloping a Derelict SiteThe redevelopment of a derelict warehouse, alongside the construction of three new apartment blocks in Leicester city centre, presented several significant challenges. Initially, brown aluminium was specified to align with the area's aesthetic.However, the project’s primary goal was to transform the neglected site into modern, high-quality apartments that would contribute to the wider regeneration efforts in the city centre. In response, Nu Openings proposed the Eurocell PVC-U 70mm Logik Chamfered system in Black Ash and Syncro sliding doors as a more cost-effective and sustainable alternative to aluminium.This specification change introduced the need for careful adherence to local planning protocols, collaboration with architects, and compliance with Building Regulations. Additionally, the derelict state of the warehouse added complexity to the project.On-site safety during the measurement of every window was paramount, and the team also had to contend with structural irregularities and environmental factors, such as the presence of pigeons.Innovative Solutions for Modern Apartment DesignNu Openings, contracted to install the windows and doors, worked closely with Padmore Construction and Eurocell’s Commercial team to overcome these challenges. The choice of the Logik 70mm system was driven by its exceptional thermal performance, achieving a U-value of 1.2, while offering significant cost savings compared to aluminium. Eurocell’s foiled Black Ash finish provided the ideal solution, balancing the need to match local architectural aesthetics with energy efficiency goals.Steve Carvell from Nu Openings, who spearheaded the specification change, noted the challenge of ensuring that PVC-U could meet both the aesthetic and functional requirements of the project. Eurocell’s Technical team collaborated closely with architects, providing detailed technical drawings and support to secure planning approval, ensuring the project’s success.Despite the derelict state of the existing building, which required creating new structural openings for window installations and precise on-site measurements, the installation of over 220 frames has been successfully completed. The project involves more than 1,000 frames, with 90% of the installation carried out internally. This approach has minimised the need for external scaffolding, streamlining the process and reducing the impact on pedestrian safety around the site.Steve shared:"Convincing the planners and architects to switch from aluminium to PVC-U wasn’t easy. It wasn’t a straight swap - we had to make sure the new material met all the aesthetic, structural, and thermal requirements."“Eurocell’s Technical team played a crucial role in this process, providing detailed drawings and performance data to demonstrate how Logik 70mm could deliver on energy efficiency, durability, and design. The team’s expertise helped us navigate complex planning approvals and ensured that the new specifications not only met, but exceeded expectations, ultimately securing the confidence of all stakeholders involved."elivering Cost Savings and SustainabilityAlthough the project is ongoing, the decision to shift from the originally specified aluminium to the Logik 70mm system has already yielded significant cost savings, while delivering high-performance, energy-efficient windows. The chosen design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding architecture, preserving the city's identity while offering a modern, sustainable solution.The redevelopment of the derelict warehouse, along with the construction of three new buildings as part of this project, aligns seamlessly with the broader initiative to enhance both the functionality and aesthetics of the city.Kelly Hibbert, Head of Commercial at Eurocell, highlighted the critical role of acoustic performance in the project, with bespoke glazing solutions designed to meet rigorous noise reduction standards:“This project extended far beyond aesthetics - the windows needed to comply with strict acoustic requirements. The successful collaboration between planners, architects, and Nu Openings enabled us to meet every aspect of the design brief, transforming a derelict site into modern, energy-efficient apartments.”“In addition to the performance benefits that the Logik 70mm system brought to this development, Eurocell’s sustainability credentials were also a key advantage. Our products, containing an average of 32% recycled PVC-U, contribute to the construction sector's increasing focus on environmental responsibility and the complex journey towards achieving Net Zero.”

Heritage colours and kerb-side appeal were among the factors that persuaded local planning authorities that Modus PVC-U windows were the appropriate alternative to timber on a prime, exposed location near the UNESCO World Heritage Site.Consisting of 136 upmarket homes selling at up to £1 million apiece, the Ensleigh Estate was being developed by Bloor Homes, along with another major housebuilder, on a former MoD site dating from WW2 that overlooks the Georgian city and is near to its race and golf course.The planners originally wanted timber windows but that didn't work for the developer who wanted matching fascias and soffits. As the site is exposed at the top of a steep hill they wouldn’t look great for very long.

Low maintenance costs, combined with a traditional appearance, persuaded a social housing provider to join forces with a private developer in pressing for planners to approve the Modus flush casement PVC-U window system from Eurocell in preference to timber.In an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty where the Borough Council’s planning department used the Cotswold Design Code as its reference; the planners were insistent that flush casement timber windows should be fitted.The housebuilder, fabricator and Eurocell worked to convince planners that PVC-U windows were a viable option, whilst allowing the builder to maintain its reputation on building quality homes. 

Winvic made an educated choice when they specified Eurocell windows and panels for a landmark Coventry development. CODE Students Coventry is a flagship 23-storey accommodation block which, topping off at 76m, is the highest in the city. Such a lofty achievement called for materials of equally high standing. Not only to shrug off the elements and maintain thermal efficiency. But also to cope with the rigours of student life without losing its looks. Winvic understood that only a bespoke Logik tilt and turn widow system, designed in close collaboration with fabricator and installer Astraseal, would pass this test.

Eurocell’s involvement in a large scale student accommodation construction project helped to add value through the specification of a high quality, striking and versatile PVC-U window solution.  

When construction and development group Bowmer & Kirkland needed to ensure a £19million project for the YMCA stayed in budget, they asked Eurocell for advice. Making short work of value engineering analysis for the project, Eurocell engineers identified the tight budget could be made to work even harder. By changing the window spec from aluminium to PVC-U in the shape of their Modus Tilt & Turn profile, they could lower costs by up to 37% and increase thermal performance, without altering the design.

A recent refurbishment project of a neglected property used Charisma Vertical Sliding windows to create luxury apartments.The building had previously been fitted with timber framed windows and the planning specified a replication of these aesthetics.Charisma was presented as a credible alternative to timber and the local planning office agreed to this window profile being installed.

Long-term fabrication and installation partner A&B Glass, included the market-leading Logik PVC-U window system as an alternative to aluminium frames, to meet developer and homeowner demand at the Beaulieu Park housing scheme.

Modus windows were specified for two highly successful schools as cost effective alternative to aluminium, delivering outstanding thermal performance as well as containing around 50% recycled PVC-U.The schools have been fitted with Modus slim rebate casement windows in an Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016) finish, with a smooth white interior. The architect, the Birmingham office of ADP, selected the Modus window because it offered significant savings compared to equivalent aluminium windows that offered a similar appearance and because of its outstanding thermal performance. 

Bellway Homes became the latest major house builder to specify Modus, an innovative new PVC-U window and door system from Eurocell. Rectory Road in Leicester is a development of nine properties in a conservation area, this meant that the planners had to approve external elements of the properties, including windows.The Modus flush sash was specified because both Bellway Homes and the planning authorities felt that it offered an aesthetic rival to timber windows.

Orbit Housing’s Fordham House in Stratford-upon-Avon aimed to raise the bar for rented accommodation. Although initially a social housing provider, Orbit now refers to itself as a “developing housing association”, and Fordham House was designed for private rental by key workers in the town.Providing enhanced protection against noise and boasting a superior maintenance and repair strategy, much of the budget for these above-and-beyond features came from the specification of Modus windows in place of the aluminium frames originally specified. 

Purpose-built student accommodation developer sees the all-round value of PVC-U window specification at new flagship accommodation project for major university.

Plymouth-based Right Price PVC-U & Home Improvements has installed Logik Flush Sash windows at the first phase of the West Carclaze Garden Village residential development.

u-Openings were commissioned to design and install a bespoke window system for Greenchurch Developments' new-build care home in Doncaster. The project commenced in September with a strict completion deadline set for the end of January.During the planning phase, Eurocell and Nu-Openings collaborated closely on the development of the window systems, with Eurocell overseeing the design and Nova Group, a long-standing fabricator partner of Eurocell, managing the supply of the windows and doors and Nu-Openings carrying out the installation.Project completed within a tight four-month deadline through close collaborationThe use of Ash Black windows provided the care home with a modern and vibrant aestheticThe energy-efficient Logik Window System (U-value 1.2) helped reduce energy consumptionThe Nu-Openings and Eurocell partnership delivered a functional and aesthetically pleasing solution that met health and safety standards.Balancing Functionality and Modern DesignThe brief provided to Nu-Openings emphasised the need for aesthetically pleasing windows, moving away from the traditional and often uninspiring designs typical of care homes.Additionally, the windows had to accommodate thicker glass to mitigate the harshness of sunlight. One of the project's significant challenges was the constrained four-month timeframe for completion.Social facilities such as retirement homes, nursing homes, and hospitals must be designed to ensure the well-being of vulnerable individuals, which includes maintaining appropriate temperature control.Therefore, it was essential for the care home windows to meet a range of health and safety requirements, including the installation of window restrictors and tamper-proof glass.Selecting the Eurocell Logik Window system for Performance and StyleNu-Openings and Eurocell collaborated closely during the initial planning stages to develop a bespoke window system that met the project's specific requirements.They selected the Logik 70mm Window System in the Chamfered design with an Ash Black finish. This design choice provided a sleek and modern look that contrasted effectively against the building's cladding, fulfilling the aesthetic criteria outlined in the brief.A key reason for choosing the Logik Window System from Eurocell was its capacity to hold thicker glass, necessary for reducing the harshness of sunlight penetrating the care home. This combination of aesthetic appeal, functional performance, and sustainability made the Logik Window System an ideal solution for the project.For more information on how Eurocell can assist you in delivering your next project, please contact the team commercialsales.profiles@eurocell.co.uk