PhD students (in white hard hats) with William Davis Homes employees at the Lace Fields development in Ruddington, Nottinghamshire
The benefits of energy-efficient homes – and how they’re constructed – came under the spotlight during a visit by 20 PhD students from the UK and Ireland to the award-winning housebuilder William Davis Homes.
The students are starting a four-year PhD focussing on energy and the built environment. They’re part of a collaborative training programme for the Centre for Doctoral Training, involving Loughborough University, University College London and a number of institutions in Ireland.
For more than 10 years, William Davis Homes has worked closely with Loughborough University to host visits by over 200 PhD students.
The latest visit was to the Lace Fields development in Ruddington, where the students were given the opportunity to look behind the scenes and view homes in various stages of construction.
William Davis Homes contracts manager Russell Pitman said the development was chosen because it demonstrated every stage of a property’s construction, from excavation and concrete through to completion.
“We were delighted to welcome the students and answer their questions, which focussed on how we use energy efficient technology and materials, as well as air pressure tightness in new homes,” said Mr Pitman.
“It was great to see the enthusiasm of the next generation of building engineers and scientists.
“Lace Fields is a perfect example of how we combine the exacting standards of traditionally built homes with the latest technology, in line with today’s requirements for energy efficiency and sustainability.”
Professor Kevin Lomas from Loughborough University said the first-hand experience of seeing houses built was hugely beneficial to the students’ understanding.
“The students were very impressed by the attention to detail and seeing the advances that have been made in the construction industry. Our site visit is one of the most interesting parts of the course. Over the years, the support of William Davis Homes has been exemplary.”
Professor Lomas added: “The visits have given over 200 students an invaluable insight into the practical realities of UK housebuilding. That’s something they couldn’t possibly have experienced without the assistance of William Davis.”
