Creating A Durable, Modern Hub For A Growing Community
- Apr 14
- 2 min read
The Gilden Way Community Centre in Harlow was commissioned to provide a vital community hub for residents of a new housing development on the outskirts of the town. With the area expanding rapidly, the centre was designed as a landmark building that serves both practical needs and as a focal point for local identity. Designed to reflect the character of the surrounding new homes, the building also needed to deliver long-term durability and low maintenance, ensuring it remains a valuable asset for years to come.
The Challenge
The project required a rainscreen cladding solution capable of balancing design ambition with robust performance. Key requirements included:
● A modern, high-quality aesthetic aligned with the wider development
● Reliable weather protection and long-term durability
● A clean, uninterrupted façade in line with the architect’s vision
The Solution
James Hardie engineered fibre cement products were selected for their proven durability, long-term performance and aesthetic flexibility. A total of 720 m² of Hardie® Panel in a contemporary Anthracite Grey finish was used as the main external surface on the project, delivering a sleek, modern appearance. To introduce warmth and contrast, Hardie® VL Plank boards in white and brown tones were incorporated for accent walls and soffit details. A key feature of the project was the use of a secret-fix system, a new innovation, which conceals all mechanical fixings behind the panel face. This creates a smooth, uninterrupted façade with no visible rivets, enhancing both the visual quality and the overall finish of the building.
Installation
Delivered by Eden Facades, working in partnership with main contractor Boom Construction, the project benefited from strong collaboration and technical expertise throughout. Matt Green, Operations Manager at Eden Facades said “We’ve used James Hardie products on several projects before, so we knew we could count on exceptional technical support from start to finish. Hardie® Panel was the perfect finishing touch for this build.”
Outcome
The completed community centre provides a durable, low-maintenance building that aligns with the design language of the wider development while establishing a clear identity of its own. The use of concealed fixing technology and complementary cladding finishes has resulted in a refined, contemporary façade that meets both aesthetic and performance expectations. James Moore, National Sales Manager at James Hardie, said: “The Gilden Way Community Centre is a perfect example of how Hardie® Panel and Hardie® Plank products can combine to deliver both performance and design. The secret-fix installation gives the building a premium finish while ensuring long-term durability. It’s fantastic to see our materials helping to create a space that will serve and inspire the community for generations.”
Summary
The Gilden Way Community Centre has become a key landmark for the development, providing a durable, modern and inspiring building that complements its surroundings. The collaboration between James Hardie, Eden Facades and Boom Construction demonstrates how high-performance materials and thoughtful design can come together to deliver high-quality, long-lasting results. The centre now stands as a modern hub for education, recreation and community activity, forming a strong focal point for the neighbourhood. www.jameshardie.com
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