Hardie® Panel: Gilden Way Community Centre
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 would not only serve practical needs but also act as a focal point for local identity.
Project at a glance
Location
Harlow, UK
Project Size
720m²
Architects
Alcove Architecture
Builder
Boom Construction, Eden Facades
Product
Year
2025
From the outset, the design team needed a rainscreen cladding solution that could
Provide a modern, attractive exterior to complement surrounding new homes.
Deliver strong performance in terms of weather protection and durability.
Achieve a clean, streamlined appearance in line with the architect’s vision.
Creating a durable, modern hub for a growing community
James Hardie products were selected for their proven durability, long-term performance, and aesthetic flexibility. In addition, the panels were installed using a secret-fix system, a new innovation, creating a beautiful seamless, uninterrupted facade.
James Hardie solution
720m² of Hardie® Panel in a contemporary Anthracite Grey finish was used as the main external surface on this project. To add warmth and contrast, Hardie® VL Plank boards in cream and brown tones were also used for accent walls and soffit details.
The secret fix concealed fixing method hid all mechanical fixings behind the panel face, creating a smooth, uninterrupted facade with no visible rivets. This detail not only enhanced the building’s visual quality but also underlined the premium character of the development providing the sleek, contemporary look increasingly demanded in modern community buildings.
Delivered by Eden Facades, working in partnership with main contractor Boom Construction - 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. The Hardie® Panels were the perfect finishing touch for this build.”
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.
James Moore
National Sales Manager – Hardie Panel at James Hardie
Moments in focus
The new community centre has become a key landmark for the Gilden Way development, a durable, modern and inspiring building that perfectly complements its surroundings.
Touch it. Trust it. Build with it.
Order a free sample to experience the texture, tone, and quality that sets Hardie® Panel apart from the rest. See how it feels in your hand — and how it fits in your vision.