Enhancing Indoor Comfort with retrofit at HHOM@Circuit Road

SUMMARY

The HHOM@Circuit Road project will see the transformation of an existing four-storey building previously used as a school into a 478-bed hostel catering for healthcare professionals moving to Singapore to integrate into the public healthcare system. The community-oriented estate will feature a range of communal amenities, including a social pantry, dining hall, recreational lounge and multi-purpose facilities, and is designed to create a welcoming, enriched experience for residents. Knauf Insulation glasswool was specified as the mineral wool infill for the Knauf partition wall system to enhance sound absorption and thermal comfort to deliver peaceful, comfortable living conditions while also improving the energy efficiency of the entire facility.

WHAT WAS THE CHALLENGE?

The retrofit of HHOM@Circuit Road aimed to enhance the acoustic performance of the hostel and guarantee a healthy indoor living environment for residents. Key to these enhancements was the specification of insulation products that met stringent performance criteria and was Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC) certified. Due to the challenges related to retrofitting an existing structure, the architect also prioritised solutions that were easy to transport and provided exceptional comfort and safety when installing. Seamless supply of materials to the project was also essential, with effective logistical coordination crucial to meeting the demands of the existing infrastructure and satisfying contractor requirements.

WHAT WAS THE SOLUTION?

The project specifier, OWAA Architects, was recommended Knauf Insulation glasswool insulation products by Knauf Gypsum Singapore as part of the Knauf Partition Wall System. The Knauf Insulation Partition Batts with a density of 20kg/m³ and a thickness of 50mm was proposed, alongside the Knauf Insulation Partition Roll.

These products were favoured for the superior thermal and acoustic properties they deliver, essential qualities for creating a comfortable living environment. Unlike conventional products, Knauf Insulation glasswool is uniquely designed to simplify the installation process, with the batts designed at 600mm wide to friction fit seamlessly into most standard wall joists. Advanced compression packaging allows up to ten times more insulation per pack, reducing transportation and on-site handling requirements, another key consideration for the project.

WHY KNAUF INSULATION?

Knauf Insulation was specified as part of the Knauf partition wall system due to its ease of handling and installation. Knauf Insulation glasswool is manufactured with ECOSE® Technology, a sustainable, plant-based binder free of added formaldehyde, and TwinTech® Technology, a dual forming technique that delivers a smooth finish on both sides, delivering a product with improved handling and appearance that enhances the installation experience.

A key focus of the project was delivering a relaxed, comfortable living environment for the dedicated healthcare workers who will reside there. Knauf Insulation glasswool provides outstanding thermal and acoustic performance, resulting in an energy efficient living space that is quiet and comfortable year-round.

Knauf Insulation is also a proud member of the Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC), underscoring our commitment to a greener, healthier, and more sustainable built-environment. Additionally, our glasswool insulation products are backed by global certifications including DECLARE Red List Free, Eurofins Indoor Air Quality Gold Standard, and GreenTag Level A Certification.