Timber Construction Magazine Issue 25 Autumn/Winter 2023

25

AUTUMN/WINTER 2023 www.timbermedia.co.uk ISSN 2515–8686 (PRINT)

CONSTRUCTION

ROTHOBLAAS  20 Rebuilding with mass timber systems and innovative connector technology STRUCTURAL TIMBER ASSOCIATION  18

CLT WORKSTACK  34

Bringing a positive and sustainable approach to timber construction in 2024

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  ISSUE 25 CONTENTS

04

16

18

04  News

20

22

A range of news and views from across the industry.

16  All Timber Systems Go TDUK’s recent Global Market Conference put the timber market in context with the rest of the construction industry, as well as exploring how the UK softwood sector is performing.

18  A State of Positivity Andrew Carpenter, CEO of the STA, explores the recent development of the structural timber sector with an eye on progress in 2024 and beyond.

30

34

20  Cover Story: Rothoblaas The 2016 earthquake in Central Italy created an opportunity to rebuild in wood. Massimiliano Muscio from MMSA told us what it’s like to rebuild in a damaged region.

22  Lessons in CLT

36

The doors have opened at the first Scottish Passivhaus primary school to use a cross laminated timber (CLT) structure.

30  Driving Industry Development Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) talks us through the BWF’s achievements this year, its key areas of focus for the next 12 months and how they are supporting the timber sector.

34  CLT WorkStacks a Treat dRMM have completed Charlton WorkStack, a pioneering new model for high-density industrial space on compact sites and is primarily constructed from CLT.

Consultant Editor: Gary Ramsay

Registered address:

 hannah.jones@timbermedia.co.uk

Structural Timber Media Ltd,



36  Peace and Timber Understanding The New Temple Complex, designed by architects James Gorst uses timber technology to its fullest potential and is a multi-award-winning triumph of sustainable design.

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25 Introducing The Perfect Partner for the Timber Industry combilift.com Timber Trader UK magazine 185 x 62 Liz 2023 june.indd 1

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

Timber winner at Stirling Prize 2023 The John Morden Centre by Mæ has been

Ellen van Loon, chair of the RIBA Stirling

named winner of the RIBA Stirling Prize

Prize jury, said: “The John Morden Centre is a

2023. The day care centre for residents of

place of joy and inspiration. It sensitively and

Morden College, brings together facilities

seamlessly integrates medical facilities and

currently spread across the college site.

social spaces, delivering a bold and hopeful

This 300-year-old residential and nursing

model for the design of health and care

facility has been given a new lease of life with

centres for the elderly. Dedication to creating

treatment rooms, a hair salon, nail bar, events

an environment that lifts the spirits and

space and wellbeing facilities in a beautiful

fosters community is evident at every turn and

setting in Blackheath, London. Morden College

in every detail.

“This robust building provides comfort

is a Grade I listed almshouse in Blackheath, London founded in 1695 by Sir John Morden

and warmth, with thoughtful features

and built by Sir Christopher Wren’s master

designed to prevent isolation. It illustrates

builder and successor, Edward Strong.

how buildings can themselves be therapeutic

The new building has a cross laminated

– supporting care and instilling a sense

timber (CLT) structure supplied by Stora Enso

of belonging. Great architecture orients

with glulam from Pabst and features columns

people so they can thrive, and this building is

also harnessing the therapeutic value of the

made of Accoya. An inspiring example of

exemplary at achieving exactly that.”

surrounding nature. It stands as a testament

architecture enabling elderly living without

RIBA president Muyiwa Oki, added:

isolation, the John Morden Centre has been

“Loneliness and isolation are critical issues,

College, Mæ’s creativity – and the exemplary

designed to encourage connection and

particularly for older people. This is a skilfully

collaboration between them.”

movement among residents, supporting

designed package that minimises the building’s

healthier and longer lives.

impact on our planet’s delicate ecology, while

to the vision and ambition of Morden

More at  www.mae.co.uk

Derelict Edinburgh public toilets transformed into new homes The site of former public conveniences in the Morningside area of Edinburgh has been transformed into a new five-storey residential building. The development by Rennick Property regenerates the site and provides rarely offered new housing in the area.

“Given the site’s location – a tenement on one side and a newbuild

To make way for the newbuild, derelict lavatories at 7 Canaan Lane,

house on the other, with Canaan Road bordering the south elevation –

Morningside, had first to be demolished. Now standing in their place is

site access and construction challenges had to be planned for. However,

an impressive apartment block with a natural sandstone facade which

working alongside my colleagues, Ana Rodrigues and Paul Gillespie, and

perfectly complements and blends in with both the character and look

closely with Rennick, the design team and other contractors, we were

of the next-door tenement and the surrounding buildings.

able to deliver the project with minimal disruption.

Andrew Rennick, of Rennick Property, said: “This is a stunning new

“This new building breathes life into a site that was in a dilapidated

property just off Morningside Road providing eight new apartments and

state, providing additional housing in a particularly busy part of the city.

two penthouse suites featuring impressive glass balustrade balconies. The

Will Rudd is proud to have worked with Rennick Property to revitalise

property includes a private entrance for residents and a lift to all floors.”

the site. Now that it’s complete, we are seeing just how brilliant an

The five-storey development was constructed from timber frame.

addition this property is to Morningside.”

Edinburgh-based structural engineers, Will Rudd, provided support to

Andrew Rennick, founder and managing director at Rennick Property,

Rennick Property before and throughout the construction, advising on the

added: “We are proud of the work that we have done to transform these derelict

timber frame structure, as well as foundations and drainage works. The lead

public toilets into a beautiful new residential building. Will Rudd has been

structural engineer from Will Rudd, Craig D’Arcy, added: “We used timber

invaluable in providing their expertise in what was a tricky construction site.”

frame as it’s sustainable, has low embodied energy and is lightweight.

However, one of the challenges of working with timber is the initial shrinkage

More at  www.ruddconsult.com

and the design team had to carefully consider the detailing prior to the build.

 www.rennickproperty.com/project/7-canaan-lane

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

Foundation stone of Metsä Group’s Kerto LVL mill laid in Äänekoski

Metsä Group’s Kerto LVL mill project in Äänekoski, Finland is

and a competent design team. We also share common responsibility

progressing as planned with the foundation stone laid on 24

goals with Metsä Group. This construction site will also be built using

November. 2023. The mill will have an annual production capacity

emission-free renewable energy, taking into account energy efficiency

of about 160,000 cubic metres of Kerto LVL and is expected to start

and the versatile use needs of the future.”

production in the second half of 2026.

At the masonry ceremony, newspapers of the day, the charter,

“The Kerto LVL mill in Äänekoski is an important investment

valid Finnish coins, plans of the mill, a Kerto LVL beam, and a Kerto LVL

for Metsä Group,” said Jaakko Anttila, executive vice president at

handbook were deposited in the foundation stone time capsule as a

Metsä Wood. “With the new capacity, we will meet the growing

memento of this era for future generations.

global demand for wood construction, which is an important step

The construction site is progressing well on schedule. Land

towards a low-carbon future for the construction industry. Kerto LVL

construction works are currently underway in the area. The massive

products are strong and material-efficient, store carbon and reduce

building is divided into six different sections, where work is progressing

the carbon footprint of construction. The impact of the investment is

in stages. In section 1, the main frame installations have already been

also significant locally, and Äänekoski has provided us with excellent

completed, while in sections 5 and 6 concrete works are still ongoing. Next,

conditions to develop our operations in the long term.”

in section 1, the roof element installations will start. Currently, around 80

“Metsä Group is a pioneer in the industry’s transition to modern,

people work at the site, and the headcount will grow to 200 people.

co-operative project forms in its construction investments,” added

The employment impact of the construction phase of the project is

says Saku Sipola, CEO, of project management company SRV. “We are

estimated to be around 1000 person-years. When completed, the mill will

implementing a large and demanding project, where a quick schedule

employ around 150 people directly and 200 people in its value chain.

and coordination with the construction and production process is More at  www.metsagroup.com

extremely important, in close and good cooperation with the customer

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE For more information contact julie.williams@radar-communications.co.uk T: 01743 290042

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

FSC International Board initiates global executive search for next Director General

The Board of Directors of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC®) are

Carstensen will continue as director general of FSC international

on the search for the next Director General.

as the organisation reaches its 30th anniversary in 2024. He will focus

Zandra Martinez, chairperson of the FSC Board of Directors said:

on working with the board on securing a good leadership transition

“We are grateful to Kim Carstensen for his 11 years of service and

process. Key priorities in 2024 include: FSC’s relevance in the context

commitment to the vision and mission of FSC. He has served with

of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), increasing

passion and dedication, over these years and has led unprecedented

certification of tropical forests, enhancing the focus on climate and

growth of FSC across 60 countries and five continents. We believe

ecosystem services and growing the forest management certification.

the coming years are fundamental to continue our growth and

The Board of Directors has selected the global executive search

enhancement of our global mission advocating for a holistic approach

firm Odgers Berndston to identify a new director general for FSC and

towards responsible forest management.

they will be appointed by the board next year.

“FSC is ultimately a community of passionate individuals who work

Kim Carstensen, FSC director general said: “I am proud of what we

together towards one common goal: ensuring the long-term resilience of

have achieved at FSC International with our global network and partner

our world’s forests. We look forward to seeing FSC continue to flourish

organisations. We are a team of incredibly talented and passionate

and grow from its current position of strength to even higher levels.”

people who have committed our skills to keep forests for all forever.

Under Carstensen’s leadership, FSC led the establishment of FSC

Guided by our global vision to meet the world’s need for forest

Investment & Partnerships and the FSC Indigenous Foundation. He

products, without compromising the health of the world’s forests for

also drove the launch of FSC Ecosystem Services Procedure and a very

future generations, we are providing very important contributions

significant increase in FSC’s global importance and reach. Noteworthy

towards a sustainable planet.”

was his leadership through the challenging times such as the COVID-19 More at  www.fsc.org

pandemic and the war in Ukraine.

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

New Accoya ‘Color’ Grey available for UK James Latham has announced the arrival of Accoya Color Grey (Accoya Grey), the latest addition to Accsys’ pioneering modified wood range, in the UK and Irish specifiers markets. Available nationwide, across the distributor’s network of 13 depots, Accoya Grey combines the modified timber’s unique attributes with a new, sultry, smoky shade of grey for cladding which delivers both style and substance.

The introduction of a grey variation responds to an increasing

Commenting on the introduction of Accoya Grey, Justin Hayward,

appetite amongst architects for more muted colourways, to achieve

Technical Timber Manager at James Latham, says, “This new colour

elegant and understated facades which achieve a balance between

within the Accoya portfolio demonstrates how its manufacturer, Accsys,

the striking and subtle. Full-body coloured, from surface to core, visual

has its finger on the pulse when it comes to trend-watching. Likewise,

consistency is guaranteed even when the material is cut.

we’ve noticed an increasing demand from our specifier audience for

Manufactured according to Accsys’ proprietary acetylation process,

grey-toned timber, so it’s great to be able to offer such an attractive

Accoya Grey is ultra-durable with low porosity making it suitable for

option that possesses a superior degree of strength and low carbon

most commercial and residential cladding and decking applications.

credentials.”

Possessing Durability Class 1 means it’s well-suited for use in locations

The expansion of Accoya Color to the UK market follows successful

with adverse weather conditions, particularly wind-driven rain.

growth worldwide. Since its launch in 2021, in the DACH region and

Furthermore, it requires no coating, resulting in efficiency gains and

subsequent release in N. America and France, Accoya Color has been

fewer resources used during installation.

specified by many leading architects and project designers, with proven

Similar to all products in the range, Accoya Grey is also easy to

success in hundreds of decking, cladding and louvre projects.

work with, the boards are relatively lightweight and can be machined

Justin Peckham, Head of Sales UK & Ireland, Accsys commented: “I’m

to a wide range of profiles. This is a service that James Latham is also

so excited to bring the benefits of Accoya Color to our UK customers.

equipped to offer in-house through its specialist timber manufacturing

Coloured throughout, it is a phenomenal product, offering a premium look

business, Dresser Mouldings. Servicing both the UK and Ireland, the

and feel that lasts. It combines all the high performance and sustainability

dedicated team can prepare the Accoya cladding or decking panels for

benefits of Accoya with a gorgeous grey colour. It has proven extremely

contractors to simply plug and play when they arrive on-site.

popular for decking, given its durability, protection from scuff marks and

That’s not all, Accoya Grey is also equipped to meet, and surpass, the

low maintenance. For the same reasons, we are also seeing it increasingly

strict sustainability requirements found in most contemporary design

specified for cladding. As the trend towards outdoor living continues to

briefs. This includes Cradle-to-Cradle Certified® Gold, guaranteeing its

grow, we see huge potential for Accoya Color.”

carbon neutrality and making it an environmentally friendly material More at  www.lathamtimber.co.uk

choice, particularly when compared to many traditional materials.

New Ireland Steering Group on timber to examine increasing the use of timber in construction Increasing the use of timber in construction

climate, water quality, nature and biodiversity

to plant new forests for timber. Applicants

is central to the work of a new Steering

- growing timber as a product for construction

can receive grants of €4,452 per hectare, and

Group appointed by the Minister of State

is also central to our climate efforts and to the

annual payments of up to €863 per year for 20

for Land Use and Biodiversity at the

future of the forest sector.”

years to plant a new diverse conifer forest for

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Senator Pippa Hackett.

The new Interdepartmental & Industry Steering Group on Timber in Construction brings

timber production with 20% broadleaf species through the new Afforestation Scheme.

Speaking after the first meeting of the

together industry and government departments

The Government is committed to increase

group, Minister Hackett said: “We want to

to assess the needs of the sector and to increase

the number of timber growers in the State and

see more timber used in construction. Not

the use of timber in construction. The group

offers grants to fully establish new forests and

only is wood a sustainable, home-grown

is tasked with examining potential obstacles

support the management of the existing forest

product, but it can also replace steel and

to increasing the use of timber, including

estate. The Government’s new Forest Strategy

concrete, reducing the carbon footprint of our

regulatory and standardisation challenges, and

places a strong emphasis on the use of timber

buildings. Timber used in construction is an

to maximising the use of home-grown timber.

and its important role in reducing the amounts

excellent way of storing and locking up carbon

The new €1.3billion Forestry Programme,

and has a positive impact on our climate. We

launched in September, offers attractive

know our forests bring great benefits for our

grants and yearly premiums for landowners

Timber Construction Magazine

Autumn/Winter 2023

07

of concrete and steel in construction.

More at  www.gov.ie/en

www.timbermedia.co.uk

 @Timber_Media

TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

Beattie Passive appoints new bid manager to strengthen public sector presence Passivhaus pioneer and offsite modular construction specialist Beattie Passive, a member of the Passivhaus Trust, the Association of Environment Conscious Building (AECB) and the Good Homes Alliance, has appointed Graeme Robson to the newly created role of Bid Manager.

This strategic appointment follows the firm’s recent success in securing positions on three major offsite construction frameworks: •

Crown Commercial Service - Offsite Construction Solutions Framework

L-R Graeme Robson, Simon Clarke

- Lot 3: Residential and Lot 6: Thermal Efficiency Upgrades • •

The Offsite Homes Alliance (OSHA) - National Modular Construction Framework.

very strong proposition in terms of energy efficiency, sustainability and

LHC - Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) of New Homes (NH3)

social value. I’m absolutely delighted that we’ve appointed someone of

Framework.

Graeme’s calibre to provide in-house bid support as we look to build on the success of our award-winning, net zero-rated Passivhaus projects.”

Graeme will be responsible for writing PQQs and Tenders for public

Simon Clarke was also appointed to the newly created role of Client

sector newbuild and retrofit projects. “I’ve worked as a bid manager for

Solutions Manager. Simon said: “I’m thrilled to join Beattie Passive

over twenty years, primarily in facilities management, but more recently

and head up the self-build division. This company’s commitment to

in groundworks,” said Graeme. “I have a keen interest in sustainability, so

sustainable construction aligns perfectly with my own passion for eco-

I’m looking forward to working for a company that promotes sustainable

friendly building practices. Beattie Passive has a very strong track record

building practices. Beattie Passive ticks all the boxes for public sector

of Passivhaus projects and I’m eager to contribute to the company’s

procurement, so that certainly makes my job a little bit easier.”

continued growth and development in the self-build market.”

Ron Beattie, founder and managing director of Beattie Passive, More at  www.beattiepassive.com

said: “Bids play a key role in our business development, and we have a

Local MP drops into Donaldson Timber Systems Witney factory Robert Courts, the Member of Parliament

wide array of environmental and economic

for Witney, visited to see first-hand the

benefits of building timber frame homes and

benefits of offsite timber construction.

buildings offsite.

During the visit, the MP was given a

“Timber construction is set for a boom

presentation and tour of the site by CTI

in the coming years, with the Government

chairman Alex Goodfellow and Donaldson

releasing its Timber in Construction Policy

manufacturing director Frank O’Reilly, who

Roadmap later this month. I am pleased to

outlined the crucial role of timber frame

see Witney at the heart of the UK’s timber

MMC in tackling the housing crisis.

revolution, with Donaldson Offsite leading the

At Donaldson Timber Systems, homes

way in low-carbon offsite housing construction.

are manufactured offsite using state-of-the-

I look forward to engaging with the industry

but it is also high quality, offering ‘fit and

art machines which guarantee both factory

further over the coming months through the

forget’ installation and a solution to the

consistency and minimal maintenance

APPG for Timber Industries in Parliament”.

chronic labour shortages seen in construction.

post-build. Using machines also requires less

Donaldson Offsite CEO, Alex Goodfellow,

“Not only is timber MMC low carbon,

To expand our industry and decarbonise

labour than traditional construction methods

said: “We would like to thank Mr Courts for

construction, the government must find a

and will prove crucial in plugging skills gaps

visiting our Witney factory – It is great to see

way of increasing demand for timber through

in the economy. In addition, using timber,

an MP engage with manufacturing businesses

embodied carbon regulation and market

Donaldson’s produces an abundance of homes

investing in ways to deliver homes fit for the

incentives. It was great to discuss timbers

around the UK at a significantly lower carbon

future. Timber is a crucial component of the

benefits and what can be done to expand our

cost compared to steel and concrete.

net zero agenda, with the Climate Change

industry with Mr. Courts, and I look forward to further engagements with him in future.”

MP for Witney, Robert Courts, said: “I

Committee (CCC) recommending greater

was delighted to visit the Donaldson Timber

use of timber in construction to reduce built

Systems factory on Friday, where I saw the

environment emissions.

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More at  www.donaldsontimbersystems.com

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

Premier Forest Products expanding reach L-R Paul White, Founder, PWIDF and Terry Edgell, Co-founder and CEO, Premier Forest

Premier Forest Products has announced its

in the contract joinery sector, particularly in

latest acquisition with the purchase of a

South Wales, and the team’s bespoke fire door

Panels is a specialist manufacturer and supplier

specialist fire door manufacturing business

offering fits seamlessly alongside our existing

of made-to-measure doors, panels, cabinets and

and the purchase of North-East Sheets &

timber-based fire protection products. We are

worktops to trade customers and retailers in the

Panels Ltd. (NESP).

confident that this partnership will drive our

fitted kitchen, bathroom and bedroom sector.

business forward and close a gap in our current

The business is based in County Durham, just a

Paul White Ironmongery, Doors, and Fixings

range, further enhancing the product range

short distance away from Decorpanel, Premier

(PWIDF), is a renowned specialist door

available to customers.

Forest’s northern arm. North-East Sheets &

Established in 1996 and based in Newport,

manufacturer with a strong reputation for

“All 22 highly skilled PWIDF employees will

Established in 1998, North-East Sheets &

Panels’ capabilities in CNC machining and

precision and quality. The business is based on

be retained, ensuring a smooth transition and

joinery complement Decorpanel’s specialised

Langland Way, Newport, just a short distance

preserving the expertise and craftsmanship

panel processing, and Premier Forest can

away from Premier Forest’s head office and

that have made the company successful.

further expand into the kitchen, bedroom and

employs 22 staff.

These dedicated professionals will play a

bathroom sector, in residential, commercial and

vital role in driving the business forward and

public sector markets.

PWIDF is known locally and nationally for its craftsmanship in manufacturing fully

contributing to its continued success.”

Anthony Hopps, managing director of

compliant, precision fit fire doors – a growing

Paul White, founder of PWIDF and member

Decorpanel, will be expanding his role to cover

market. The company also distributes a range

of the Guild of Architectural Ironmongers, said:

NESP as Division Director, driving the business

of accompanying ironmongery, such as hinges

“I’m extremely proud of the niche we have

forward within the Premier Forest framework.

and locks, further enhancing the security and

carved in the highly specialised door market

Richard and Lisa Williams, joint owners and

functionality of its products, as well as providing

and look forward to growing even further as

directors of North-East Sheets & Panels, have

a solutions-based design service for its clients.

part of Premier Forest in our new chapter. I

taken the decision to step down from their

Terry Edgell, Co-founder and CEO of

believe that our business will flourish under

current positions to begin their well-deserved

Premier Forest Products, said: “The acquisition

the Premier Forest family, and together, we

retirement.

of PWIDF is the perfect fit for Premier Forest

will have the resources and support to take our

Products as we continue to expand our presence

products to the next level.”

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

Combilift celebrate 25 Years moving materials Combilift recently celebrated

economy. Combilift is a visionary company

25 years in business with a huge

in every sense, and I’m delighted that the

customer and media event at its

Irish government, through Enterprise

Monaghan headquarters that

Ireland, has supported Combilift through

included three new product

its incredible 25-year journey.”

launches.

Martin McVicar, Managing Director of

This included the the new Combi-

Combilift added: “We have a track record

AGT Autonomous Guided Forklift

of innovation at Combilift. We invest 7%

Truck. The autonomous truck solutions

of our revenue annually in R&D and today

combine sophisticated innovative

is the culmination of many years’ hard

technology to provide the highest levels

work. We are delighted to be continuing

of productivity and safety. The Combi-

this tradition of innovation 25 years on.

AGT can operate autonomously in guided aisles

including location tracking, usage analytics,

Now employing over 800 people in Monaghan

and free-roaming while also featuring a manual

and maintenance alerts. With this invaluable

and 200 people in other locations across the

driving option.

information at their fingertips, businesses can

world, the success of Combilift is testament to

Also unveiled was Combi-Connect, a

improve and enhance operational performance.

our people, our customers and our supporting

telematic software product that provides

Speaking at the event, Minister for Rural and

dealers around the world. We are looking

customers with greater levels of insight into

Community Development, Heather Humphreys

forward to the next 25 years at Combilift.”

fleet management and usage, providing

TD said: “Over the past 25 years, Combilift

real-time data on fleet performance,

has made a very important impact to the Irish

More at  www.combilift.com

Glidevale Protect publishes EPDs for key ranges Leading UK building products manufacturer Glidevale Protect has published third party, independently verified Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for three of its construction wall membranes to assist specifiers by providing clear sustainability and lifecycle assessment (LCA) data.

Created by One Click LCA and verified by the EPD Hub in accordance with EN 15804+A2 & ISO 14025 / ISO 21930, the product and factory specific EPDs do not contain average calculations and have been assessed cradle to gate with modules A1-A3, C1-C4 and D, with the LCA analysis published in accordance with the reference standards ISO 14040/14044. Detailing key environment impact

efficiency rating of a building and control condensation risk. Protect

data including global warming potential (GWP) calculations as well as

TF200 is a high-performance breather membrane, offering protection

total energy and water use, the EPDs form a transparent analysis of each

to external walls and minimising the risk of interstitial condensation.

product’s carbon footprint to give full reassurance in specification.

Detailed EPDs help specifiers to understand a product’s

The development of EPDs for Protect TF200 Thermo, Protect

sustainability credentials when working to more stringent regulations

VC Foil Ultra and Protect TF200 demonstrates Glidevale Protect’s

such as Building Regulations Part L as well as whole building

continued commitment to and investment in sustainability. Protect

environmental assessment standards like BREEAM. EPDs quantifiably

TF200 Thermo is a reflective breather membrane for external walls

demonstrate the environmental impact of a product and data is

which can enhance thermal performance and Protect VC Foil Ultra, a

independently verified and certified in line with internationally

reflective air and vapour control layer (AVCL), offers low emissivity to

recognised standards, focused on the product’s whole lifecycle.

enhance the thermal performance of internal walls, ceilings and floors.

More at  www.glidevaleprotect.com

Both can be used together as a system to help maximise the energy

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12

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Egger Protect.

Get more from your structural floor www.egger.com/protect

Anti-slip, moisture resistant and hard wearing structural chipboard flooring that can be exposed to the elements for 60 days. Part of the EGGER Advanced Structural Flooring System, EGGER Protect is suitable for new build, refurbishment, renovation and timber frame construction projects.

For more information visit www.egger.com/protect.

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TIMBER CONSTRUCTION  NEWS

New methodology for mass timber construction available An expert cross-industry team of engineers and architects has

rise residential buildings and beyond will be a critical part of our response

launched a pioneering set of design principles, demonstrating how

to the climate emergency. With the team’s breadth of experience with

mass timber can be used safely to construct multi-storey residential

mass timber, we’ve been able to develop a comprehensive methodology

buildings, in full compliance with UK building regulations.

for delivering all parts of a project, including architectural designs, the

The development of ‘The New Model Building’ was funded in

structure, buildability plans and fire safety.

part by Built by Nature, a network and grant-making fund dedicated

“The key element of our engineering work – the structural strategy

to accelerating the timber building transformation in Europe and the

– is flexible too, so it can be adopted by as many construction projects

UK. The new methodology was created by structural and sustainability

as possible. And we’ve made sure the strategy gives absolute clarity on

engineers at Buro Happold, Waugh

OVERVIEW

Thistleton Architects, cost consultants

THE NEW MODEL BUILDING

Gardiner & Theobald

The New Model Building is a set of design principles that showcase an exemplar methodology for building residential developments in a climate emergency.

and fire engineers at

Complying with current and consulted UK statutory guidance, The New Model Building utilises a low carbon engineered timber structure coupled with a non-combustible façade, demonstrating a way of building that responds to the challenge of meeting net zero carbon.

UCL (University College

THE TEAM Waugh Thistleton Architects is a London based architecture practice with an international reputation for thought leadership in the use of sustainable materials. We create award winning buildings which minimise their environmental impact whilst achieving the highest architectural standards. We believe passionately that sustainability and world class design are one and the same thing and strive to produce innovative and imaginative solutions that harness leading technologies.

We are known around the world for the design of our buildings, our commitment to the use of offsite construction and our pioneering work in environmentally viable architecture.

London), has been developed to help

The New Model Building is the result of a collaboration with the following industry experts:

unlock and stimulate the construction of net

ARCHITECTURE

zero homes.

ENGINEERING AND

COST

SUSTAINABILIT Y

CONSULTANCY

FIRE ENGINEERING

And has been peer reviewed by:

The New Model Building project team have been working 6

with NHBC, who

7

have reviewed the OVERVIEW

New Model Building methodology. Chris Hall,

WHY WE NEED THE NEW MODEL BUILDING

technical innovation Although the UK leads the world in building with engineered timber, with over 500 completed buildings, recent changes to Part B of the Building Regulations have resulted in a lack of confidence in how engineered timber can be used for multistorey residential building.

manager at NHBC said: “We support the use of natural construction

While the change in legislation was not prescriptive or intended to prejudice any one material, it has had an inadvertent and discriminatory effect on the use of engineered timber - our only viable low embodied carbon structural material - at a time when the need to reduce carbon emissions has never been more urgent.

materials in housebuilding when employed in line with our technical standards. Natural construction materials can offer various advantages

WHAT IS THE NEW MODEL BUILDING? The New Model Building (NMB) is an exemplar methodology for building residential developments in a climate emergency.

Fully compliant with UK statutory guidance, it utilises an encapsulated low carbon engineered timber structure coupled with a non-combustible façade system, demonstrating a way of building that responds to the challenge of meeting net zero carbon while fully complying with Part B of Building Regulations 2022 Amendments. The New Model Building arrives at a pre-assessed design philosophy for mass timber housing blocks of up to six storeys

during the construction process and are being increasingly employed across the industry. Timber is very versatile and perhaps the oldest of all

Developed in collaboration with structural engineers Buro Happold and UCL’s fire engineering experts The New Model Building is a set of standard details and performance specifications which have been pre-assessed by the National House Building Council (NHBC) to facilitate developers obtaining Buildmark, NHBC’s warranty and insurance cover for new-build homes.

construction materials, and its use in housebuilding continues to evolve.”

FLEXIBLE PRINCIPLES TO APPLY TO YOUR PROJECT

The New Model Building is exemplar guidance for building residential

We used a typical building to demonstrate how the principles and details can be used and applied. However The New Model Building Principles and Typical Details are not prescriptive and can be applied to deliver projects of varying forms and sizes, to produce bespoke designs for each site.

developments in a climate emergency, illustrating how substitution of

MASS TIMBER ELEMENTS

a traditionally constructed superstructure with engineered timber can

The mass timber elements that can be used to deliver a New Model Building are glulam columns and beams, LVL columns and beams and CLT walls and floor slabs. These can be used in combination with other traditional elements to deliver buildings that meet site requirements.

reduce the whole life carbon footprint by over 50%.

The methodology has been pre-assessed by the NHBC to ensure

8

9

that it meets its technical and safety standards. This facilitates developers to more easily apply for Buildmark for buildings, NHBC’s

how to build a structure that’s safe. Ultimately, we hope all this work

ten-year warranty and insurance cover for newbuild homes.

will encourage the construction industry to reemploy timber as a core

In the wake of the Grenfell tragedy, changes in UK building

construction material, in our drive to achieve net zero.”

regulations prohibiting the use of potentially dangerous external

Paul King, CEO of Built by Nature, added: “Game-changer is an

cladding systems in residential buildings has created hesitancy around

over-used phrase, but truly applicable here. Six storey residential

the use of engineered timber in construction. This lack of confidence

timber buildings that exceed UK Building Regulations, meet GLA policy

threatens the UK’s ability to meet emerging embodied carbon targets

and slash embodied carbon by over 50% – all pre-assessed by a major

and address the climate change crisis, despite wide acceptance of the

national warranty provider. We believe this will unlock a significant shift

knowledge that the use of structural timber is one of the primary ways to

in the way we build housing in the UK.”

reduce the carbon emissions produced by construction.

As part of The New Model Building launch, its design principles and

Jonathan Roynon, Technical Director at Buro Happold, said: “This groundbreaking design and engineering work demonstrates just what’s

details have been published and made available at

possible with mass timber. Embracing the use of the material in medium

 https://builtbn.org/solutions/new-model-building/54

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Great British Wood Support British woodlands by using British wood.

We produce cladding, beams, flooring and sawn hardwood, all from locally grown timber.

01793 853 281 | vastern.co.uk |

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FEATURE  TDUK

All Timber Systems Go Timber Development UK’s recent Global Market Conference put the timber market in context with the rest of the construction industry, as well as exploring how the UK softwood sector is performing.

T

he recent Timber Development UK (TDUK) Global Market Conference brought hundreds of representatives together

from right across the timber supply chain.

There, they heard from expert timber market speakers including Allan Willen, economics director at Glenigan, who outlined how construction in general has been impacted by the global events of recent years.

“The UK economy, property markets and construction industry have all been buffeted by successive economic shocks resulting from

Nick Boulton, the TDUK’s head of technical and trade policy at the TDUK Global Market Conference

Brexit, the pandemic, the war in Ukraine and continuing political turmoil,” said Allan. “After

economy, with the impact of that being felt

which was £5.9billion for the full year in 2022.

a sharp weakening of construction generally

right across construction.

Some £4billion of that figure was imported

in Q1, things stabilised a bit in Q2 due to the impact of Building Regulation changes in June, but overall, the industry is down about 35% on 2022 levels.”

A bright future for timber Nick Boulton, Head of Technical and Trade

timber, making it one of the UK’s 40 biggest industries. Softwoods are by far the largest import group, accounting for around 63% of

Policy at TDUK, explored the UK softwood

the imported product mix, or seven million

market and gave his predictions on what lies

m3 of timber. That’s compared to 14% for

in particular, have acted as catalysts for

ahead for 2024. “There has been turmoil

plywood, 7% particleboard, and just 5% for

accelerated structural changes in the economy

and shock in the market, but UK softwood

hardwoods.

and the demand for property which, in turn,

consumption is increasing and TDUK is

are shifting the current opportunities for the

working hard to increase the demand and get

levels in 2021 at almost 11million m3, before

timber and construction markets. Although

timber a bigger slice of the UK construction

experiencing a 21% drop during 2022,” Nick

the UK has stayed out of recession, said Allan,

pie,” he said.

said. Softwood imports have also fallen 25%

These shocks and the COVID-19 pandemic

the Bank of England remains concerned that

Nick outlined the current value of the

higher inflation is embedding itself into the

UK’s produced and imported panel products,

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Autumn/Winter 2023

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“Softwood consumption reached record

since 2021’s high point, which itself was a 15% increase on 2020’s levels.

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FEATURE  TDUK

The National Softwood Division’s forecast

consumption to be developed, which indicates

concern is the massive drop in prices we’ve seen.

is that the full 2023 year will see a 5% decline

a 7% decline for 2023 before a 1% rise in 2024

Prices have fallen, but costs and overheads

in softwood imports, before a possible 2%

which is broadly in line with the Construction

remain high, which continues to be challenging.

rise forecast in 2024. “For UK softwood

Products Association’s forecast for next year.”

But, looking ahead to 2024 and 2025 we do

“We are seeing volume stability returning to

expect things to stabilise, and the long-term

production, the Forestry Commission are forecasting a fall of 8% during 2023, with

the market, which is good news, and the scale

outlook for timber is good when you consider the

output expected to then remain flat in 2024.

of the market peaks and troughs are reducing

push towards more net zero construction.”

Combining the import and UK production

rapidly. We also expect to see price stability

figures allows a forecast of UK softwood

returning to more normal levels but of more

More at  www.timberdevelopment.uk

“Looking ahead to 2024 and 2025 we do expect things to stabilise, and the long-term outlook for timber is good when you consider the push towards more net zero construction.”

 TDUK Publishes Library of Timber Knowledge Sheets TDUK has published the first set of its huge

“Amidst a climate emergency, changing

new library of Timber Knowledge Sheets

how we build is crucial – as it represents a

– with 50+ now available for download.

major portion of our carbon footprint. The

The new knowledge sheets introduce

material and design choices we make today

and answer common questions about

will shape the future we have tomorrow.

every aspect of working with wood, from

Timber is an existing, proven solution to

the difference between hardwood and

how we construct a low-carbon future, with

softwood, through to acoustic regulations,

independent studies showing that methods

Eurocode 5 principles, embodied carbon,

such as timber frame have up to 20% lower

and sourcing timber sustainably.

embodied carbon than traditional masonry.

“Fundamentally, trees absorb carbon,

Developed with experts from Edinburgh Napier University, and TDUK’s unrivalled

and when turned into long term construction

membership network of supply, manufacture

products, can store it for decades if not

and design professionals, these 50+

millennia. Most other materials you find on

contractors and merchants. Between

knowledge sheets are the first batch of a

building sites do the exact opposite – spewing

pages, you will find introductions to all

planned 140 to help support the industry to

tonnes of carbon into the atmosphere. Taking

kinds of timber components and methods

build better with wood.

on climate change requires collective action,

of timber construction – all described in an

so a big part of TDUK’s mission is to make sure

accessible and easy to understand fashion.

“Following the merger between the Timber

that everyone in the timber supply chain has

The Knowledge Sheets also contain plenty

Trade Federation and TRADA last year, we

the opportunity, the tools, and the knowledge

of regulatory guidance, ‘best practice’

promised to connect the timber supply chain,

to succeed. These sheets, released today, add

information for working on site, as well

lead best practice, and accelerate a low-

considerable depth to our online library, which

as practical introductions to working with

carbon future. Our Timber Knowledge Sheets

is already the largest, most comprehensive

timber in challenging contexts such as

are another example of us doing exactly

source of timber knowledge in the UK. This will

flood-prone areas. These Timber Knowledge

that – and represent a big step towards our

support all to build better with wood.”

Sheets follow hot on the heels of the recently

TDUK chief executive, David Hopkins says:

vision of the UK as a country where timber

The Knowledge Sheets touch on all

published Span Tables for C16 and C24

is the number one material choice for all

topics timber and are aimed at architects,

timber. A further 90 Timber Knowledge

construction projects.

engineers, designers, builders, installers,

Sheets are to be published imminently.

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FEATURE  STA

A State of Positivity Andrew Carpenter, CEO of the Structural Timber Association (STA), explores the recent development of the structural timber sector with an eye on progress in 2024 and beyond.

A

s the construction industry

out as the most developed market within the

from 2022 shows that in Scotland it is now very

continues the journey towards

UK for timber frame usage, boasting a long

rare to see any form of production other than

net zero, the pressures of

tradition of employing this material.

timber frame. However, the same data from

climate change have prompted

According to a 2019 NHBC HMI Report,

2022 has shown no significant uplift in timber

a remarkable evolution in recent years.

a remarkable 92% of homes in Scotland are

frame in England and Wales as yet, despite the

With the need to adopt more sustainable

constructed using timber frame, amounting

desire to see this from across the industry.

building materials, timber has emerged as a

to approximately 23,000 units. While the

viable alternative to traditional construction

percentage is considerably lower in England

there are encouraging developments in the

materials – and the structural timber sector

at 9%, the volume of units is substantial, with

timber frame sector. Earlier in the year, Taylor

is well placed to serve this growing demand.

almost 14,000 homes built using timber frame.

Wimpey announced an investment in its

The market for the structural timber sector

A more recent NHBC HMI Report based on data

own timber frame manufacturing facility in

Despite a decline in overall housebuilding,

is incredibly promising. The global construction industry’s increasing focus on sustainable practices, along with the rising adoption of timber-friendly construction methods, is anticipated to drive market growth. In the UK, where governments and organisations are embracing stricter environmental regulations, the demand for sustainable construction materials like timber is on the rise.

Changing the way we build There is a very real opportunity for timber frame construction to gain a larger share of the housing market in the UK. Scotland stands Timber Construction Magazine

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FEATURE  STA

Peterborough, meaning that the three largest

by DEFRA, is a government-led initiative,

housebuilders in the UK now possess in-house

overseen by the Department for Business &

and TDUK recently signed a Memorandum

manufacturing capabilities. Additionally,

Trade, the Department for Environment, Food

of Understanding (MOU) to help grow and

Barratt Homes has made investments

& Rural Affairs (DEFRA), the Department for

develop the timber construction market.

to expand the capacity of the Oregon

Levelling Up, Housing & Communities, and the

Under the terms of the agreement, the two

Timber Frame facility in Selkirk, while also

Forestry Commission. Industry representation

parties have agreed to form a partnership in

establishing a new manufacturing site. These

comes from key organisations, namely the

order to co-operate on technical projects to

developments serve as a clear indication

STA, Timber Development UK (TDUK), and

further the development of timber design

of the advantages that timber frame

Confederation of Forest Industries (Confor).

and construction as well as on policy-related

construction brings to the UK housebuilding

The TiC was set up to identify crucial

In light of further collaboration, the STA

communication matters.

industry, enabling efficient delivery of

actions for the Government to take in

housing at volume while aligning with the

order to safely increase the use of timber

of this and the STA’s mission as a whole, is

government’s carbon reduction targets.

in construction. A significant focus for the

the emphasis on safely increasing the use

working group has been the development of

of building with timber. To support this

the Timber in Construction Policy Roadmap,

increase, there must be a larger focus on

which encompasses seven key themes:

compliance. STA Assure – the STA’s quality

Demand, Supply, Building Safety, Labour &

assurance scheme – provides confidence in

share of timber, effective collaboration

Skills, Carbon, Insurance, and Innovation.

the use of structural timber and determines

within the industry is crucial, and, recognising

The roadmap, set to be published in the

membership competency and compliance.

the historical lack of co-ordination in our

near future, will delve into each theme,

This robust scheme offers solid reassurance

pursuit of shared objectives, the Timber

addressing barriers to the expansion of timber

that members of the STA will supply products

in Construction (TiC) working group was

in construction and proposing solutions for

and systems to an audited quality scheme,

established. This collaboration, Chaired

government and industry implementation.

meeting or exceeding current legislation and

Timber in Construction working group To help in the drive to increase the market

A key point mentioned throughout all

regulatory requirements. STA Assure has formal recognition from the industry-leading structural warranty and building control bodies including NHBC, LABC Warranty, Premier Guarantee, Protek Warranty, BuildZone Warranty, Self-Build Zone Warranty and ABC+ Warranty.

2023 has been a year with significant progress, and despite challenges, which seem to be ‘par for the course’ over recent years, the continued collaboration supports the drive for safely increasing the use of structural timber.

More at  www.structuraltimber.co.uk

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COVER STORY  ROTHOBLAAS

Rebuilding with Wood

Along with its tragic consequences, the 2016 earthquake in Central Italy created an opportunity: rebuilding in wood. Rome-based MMSA Studio has initiated and partly completed several timber construction sites in the Amatrice area. Architect Massimiliano Muscio told us what it was like to rebuild in this damaged region.

Why wood?

Hardships

“Amatrice is a municipality with little more than 2,000 inhabitants,

“Building in wood is difficult because of the prejudices of clients,

which becomes almost 20,000 in summer. Many of the buildings are

but not only that. There is also a lot of resistance from contractors

the second homes of Romans fleeing the heat of the city. Fortunately,

too. There are still very few general contractors that can build directly

the emergency funds cover 100% of the reconstruction costs even for

in wood, so they subcontract to a wood specialist, losing in economic

this type of building, but it was not easy to convince clients, especially

terms what is the great advantage of timber construction: speed.

private individuals, to choose wood.

“The prejudices are always the usual ones, the fear that a timber structure will not last or that it is vulnerable to fire. But the earthquake itself gave us a hand. Before it, there was only one timber house in Amatrice and, unlike masonry buildings, not only did it not collapse, but it suffered absolutely no damage, not even a crack. Bringing clients to see it was the most convincing argument. Now, some of the first timber building sites are finished and I can show my clients the beauty and the feeling of well-being that wood gives. It is something that cannot be explained in words but can be clearly perceived with the body. Anyone who has been in a timber structure knows what I am talking about. And it’s not just a question of aesthetics.

The fire test “The other big fear concerns fire safety, but for this too I have found a secret weapon. I make my clients think about their fireplace.

Everyone knows, here in the mountains, that if you put too big a log in the fireplace, no matter how hot it is, the log does not burn. You find it the next morning, charred a couple of centimetres on the outside and perfectly intact on the inside. It is the same for a cross laminated timber (CLT) house. Mass timber resists fire much better than a brick wall, and much better than a hollow core slab.

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COVER STORY  ROTHOBLAAS

 The Future of Timber Construction

Contemporary CLT was born in Austria at the end of the 1990s

Rothoblaas is also highly active in this regard and encourages its clients

and those who had the foresight to bet on this material from the

and partners not to be satisfied with what has been achieved. The

beginning found themselves one step ahead of the others. One of

‘Build the (Im)possible’ competition, goes precisely in this direction, and

these pioneers is Rothoblaas.

rewards the most ambitious timber construction projects worldwide.

The future of construction will increasingly be a meeting of different

The company from Cortaccia (Bolzano) has grown along with the technology and has become the benchmark for anyone building

techniques, a hybrid approach that is as attentive to performance as

in engineered wood, not only in Europe, but worldwide. Today,

it is to sustainability. There are construction sites around the world for

Rothoblaas offers solutions that make it possible to construct timber

hybrid skyscrapers exceeding 100m in height. From a theoretical point of

buildings of more than twenty storeys, with energy efficiency and

view, one can easily imagine hybrid skyscrapers as tall as the Eiffel Tower.

sustainability characteristics embedded.

Wood is a material with an excellent power/weight ratio, which means

In terms of seismic and wind resistance, for example, the latest

that its weight is extremely low in relation to its static properties. But

addition to the family of hidden connections such as those used in

as much as the skyscraper may represent the most compelling design

Amatrice, ALUMEGA, allows the beams to rotate following the stresses

challenge, it should not be forgotten that most buildings, even in cities,

that come from the pillars. Another connection system for pillars,

are between six and ten storeys high.

SPIDER, makes it possible not to use beams at all, but to connect the

The challenge for the building of the future is not so much to get

vertical elements directly to the CLT floors, with significant savings in

higher, but to build with respect for the human body, the environment

time and construction resources.

and the planet, where earthquakes, floods and climate change exist and whose tragic consequences can be prevented with innovative

Timber construction has been revolutionised by the innovations of

technologies and forward-looking design.

the last thirty years, but the drive to break new ground is still strong.

“Mass timber resists fire much better than a brick wall, and much better than a hollow core slab.”

Massimiliano Muscio, MMSA Studio “Rebuilding after an earthquake also means working with very stringent constraints from a bureaucratic point of view. It is for this reason, as well as the logistical limitations of ancient town planning such as that of Amatrice or the neighbouring villages, that reconstruction work is proceeding slowly. The big breakthrough came

“To do this, we chose CLT panels and beams, connected with

when bureaucracy was simplified, especially with the impact of the

Rothoblaas joints, in particular we chose ALUMIDI and ALUMAXI

‘Consolidated Text for Reconstruction’. We also have strong landscape

concealed joints, for an ideal aesthetic result. We also relied on

constraints, linked to the fact that the buildings are inside the Gran

Rothoblaas plates to anchor the CLT structure to the reinforced

Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park. We could not indulge

concrete base, with WHT hold-downs and TITAN angle brackets.”

ourselves from a creative point of view, but we had to rebuild in wood More at  www.rothoblaas.co.uk

what was previously masonry, strictly respecting the plans.

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FEATURE  PASSIVHAUS

Lessons in CLT

The doors have opened at the first Scottish Passivhaus primary school to use a cross laminated timber (CLT) structure.

T

he £3.2million, two-storey extension to Sciennes

walls, floor, roof and partitions contributes to a warm and soothing

Primary School – a grade B-listed building in the

interior environment, as well as delivering exceptional airtightness

Marchmont conservation area of the city – was

performance, which effectively reduces embodied carbon when

designed by Holmes Miller, with Maxi Construction as

compared to alternative structural solutions.

the principal contractor. Passivhaus buildings are designed to reduce

“The new extension to Sciennes Primary School is a further example

energy consumption and carbon emissions by retaining heat in

of Holmes Miller and City of Edinburgh Council’s commitment to

winter while still being comfortably cool in summer.

environmentally sustainable and ethical design and building practices,”

The newbuild element offers the school four additional classrooms that lead to shared flexible teaching areas to encourage interaction between pupils. Carefully designed acoustics enable the open plan classrooms to function independently when necessary. Large windows with integrated seats, and extensive use of rooflights maximise natural light throughout the building, particularly given the building’s constrained location, while improved landscaped areas in the playground will encourage outdoor learning.

The exterior stonework was chosen to complement the existing school building, which dates from 1892, and its context within a conservation area. The use of CLT as the primary structural material for the Timber Construction Magazine

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FEATURE  PASSIVHAUS

said Clara Garriga, project director at Holmes Miller and lead architect

Cllr Joan Griffiths, education convener at the City of Edinburgh

for the project. “We’ve worked with the Council extensively on school

Council, added: “We know that the energy used to heat our buildings is a

projects, and they were integral to the design process, with significant

major contributor towards emissions so decarbonising our building stock is

input into how the spaces would be used.

a crucial part of achieving this goal. Designing Passivhaus in our schools and

“We are really pleased with how the CLT looks and how it’s

our wider estate significantly reduces heating costs, improves user comfort

performing – it has given the interior spaces a real warmth that we

and the learning environment. The new classroom block at Sciennes is our

wouldn’t have achieved otherwise, and the airtightness of the building

first fully Passivhaus school building and we want it to set the standard and

is 0.28, which is excellent. The team has loved seeing the building come

be a model for how we look to build low carbon schools.”

to life, and with Scotland’s ambitions for net zero gaining increasing

To achieve the rigorous Passivhaus standard, the building’s design

importance, we hope this will be the first of many educational projects

follows a ‘fabric-first’ approach, focusing on airtightness and thermal

of its kind.”

performance. The use of triple glazing and heavily insulated walls and roofs helps achieve this, while mechanical ventilation heat recovery systems and air source heat pumps reduce energy consumption and improve thermal control.

Maxi Construction’s contracts manager, Brian Watters also said: “We at Maxi Construction are delighted with the success of this project, both in the quality of finish and how the project team embraced the requirements of Passivhaus. Executing design principles of Passivhaus was unchartered territory for us, but after this we can say they are not to be feared, especially given what we have achieved on this build with air tightness. This is one to be proud of for many years to come.”

More at  www.holmesmiller.com  www.maxiconstruction.co.uk

Where some give up,

others stand strong.

Resistent connectors, suitable for different materials and any type of environment, even the most aggressive ones.

Playing a game like this has endless moves and new solutions that we are ready to provide you with.

Set the rules of construction with us, browse the online catalogue rothoblaas.com

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FEATURE  DIGITAL DESIGN

Unparalleled Efficiency Digital tools bring many things to the timber sector including enhanced efficiency and improved customer experience – but key is the ability to provide detailed automated design options.

S

cotts Timber Engineering and MiTek UK & Ireland

which reduces the amount of work required to bring preliminary designs

recently announced a partnership to offer highly

up to construction quality. The transition to MiTek PAMIR involved a

detailed 3D modelling and automated design features

comprehensive review and restructuring of Scotts Timber Engineering’s

for housebuilders. Scotts Timber Engineering works

operations. By re-evaluating each process, the company was able to

with major volume housebuilders, specialist luxury homebuilders and

identify areas for improvement and build a more efficient workflow.

other developers across the UK.

Billy Richardson, head of sales at Scotts Timber Engineering adds:

From its manufacturing centres in Thrapston (Northamptonshire) and

“It is clear that MiTek is investing and developing in its systems beyond

Redditch (Worcestershire), it designs, manufactures and supplies timber

its competition, and we wanted to be a part of that. PAMIR has made

engineered roof trusses, spandrel panels, metal web joists, porches and

complicated designs more accurate and streamlined our entire design

canopies, as well as car barns and carports. The company has a strong

process. We can now respond more efficiently to client feedback without

reputation for high-quality, PEFC certified specialist timber products and,

the need to start from scratch.”

as a long-standing member of the Trussed Rafter Association (TRA). It has

MiTek’s structural floor joist system – Posi-Joist - has become the go-

now entered into a partnership with MiTek and is using its PAMIR product.

to product in the industry for housebuilders looking to create high quality

MiTek PAMIR is a specialised roof-truss and Posi-Joist 3D modelling

homes. Thanks to its open metal web system, housebuilders can make

and design software system, which is a powerful and versatile fully

great strides in offsite construction and respond to the demands of the

integrated CAD, layout and engineering package with full EC5

Future Homes Standard.

engineering to the latest design codes. These advanced capabilities

Tim Garner, commercial director of MiTek UK and Ireland says:

translate into numerous advantages for Scotts Timber Engineering’s

“MiTek are delighted to be working in partnership with Scotts Timber

customers, including higher quality drawings and quicker turnaround

Engineering, and it’s great that Scotts are already seeing the many

times when detailing and amending drawings.

benefits of our software and service. Our design software PAMIR

James Scott, managing director, Scotts Timber Engineering says:

unlocks unparalleled efficiencies, allowing designers to work with

“One of the key strengths of MiTek’s PAMIR design platform is its

speed, accuracy, flexibility and quality. We continue to invest heavily

seamless integration with third-party information systems such as

in our suite of software, and we’re very excited to bring timber frame

PDF, AutoCAD, and Revit. This compatibility enables Scotts Timber

detailing into our PAMIR platform in response to the growing adoption

Engineering to import and export information and details from architects

of MMC by homebuilders. We look forward to a long and successful

or engineers quickly and easily, streamlining our workflow.”

partnership with Scotts.”

MiTek’s PAMIR design software allows the design team at Scotts to create accurate designs more efficiently, resulting in a faster turnaround

More at  www.scottste.co.uk  www.mitek.co.uk

time for customers. As a result, quote stage designs are more accurate,

 www.tra.org.uk

Timber Construction Magazine

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Orders Payments & Pricing

Product data management

Click & Collect / delivery

Single Integrated Platform

Order confirmation, PODs & GRNs

Mobile apps

Account management Invoices & statements

Built by merchants for merchants Eliminate paper-heavy processes to maximise efficiency

Spot trends, opportunities, and areas of risk instantly

Create a convenient online shopping experience

Connect with your customers 24/7

03 3 3 1 2 3 0 3 3 3 | E U - M A R K E T I N G @ E C I S O L U T I O N S.C O M E C I S O L U T I O N S .C O M / U K

Integrated eCommerce and PIM platform

Business management software

© 2023 ECI, and the ECI logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of ECI Software Solutions, Ltd. All rights reserved.

Timber Construction Magazine

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ADVERTORIAL  MEDITE SMARTPLY

Developing Local Talent Leading engineered wood panel manufacturer MEDITE SMARTPLY has partnered with North Kent College to support the next generation of local carpenters and joiners.

M

EDITE SMARTPLY will be

another layer of value to this collaboration.

supporting some sixty

Secondly, I would like to thank Geoff

students taking Level 1

Rhodes, president of the Institute of

and Level 2 Carpentry

Carpenters, for introducing us.”

& Joinery courses – the potential

Rebecca Goldsmith, product manager

apprentices and tradespeople of the

at MEDITE SMARTPLY adds: “We are

future. MEDITE SMARTPLY is keen to help

delighted to partner with North Kent

nurture new, local talent and highlight

College, which is just a stone’s throw away

the huge potential of timber in the built

from the MEDITE SMARTPLY Commercial

environment.

Head Office. It’s a great opportunity to

As well as donating products to the

support and encourage a new generation

college, MEDITE SMARTPLY will be sharing

of carpenters and joiners into the industry.

expert knowledge on the many benefits

“Our biggest single challenge in the

and uses of engineered wood panels, using

UK construction sector is attracting and

information from its Continued Professional

retaining new talent. We believe that

Development (CPD) courses presented to students at the campus and will

industry can do more to demonstrate the opportunities for great careers in

follow some of the projects the students will be working on using their

construction and show these new entrants the potential for using timber in

products.

sustainable modern building. We look forward to working with the students

North Kent College runs several construction courses, based at the

and can’t wait to see how our products will be used in their projects.”

Gravesend campus. The campus includes dedicated facilities for brickwork,

The first major project the students worked on was the Remembrance

painting and decorating, carpentry and multi-trades, and all courses are

Day project. Students worked together to produce silhouettes of

delivered in workshop environments that replicate the experience of

soldiers ready to stand outside the College’s four campuses, in Dartford,

working in the chosen industry. The college has strong links with local

Gravesend, Hadlow and Tonbridge, over Remembrance Day weekend.

employers, businesses and trade outlets, and a great record for getting

“We are keen to support initiatives that encourage new entrants to the

students on to apprenticeships with reputable companies.

construction trades,” continues Rebecca, “We hope that our ongoing

“First and foremost, I would like to express our appreciation to MEDITE

contact with the college will provide a constructive link between business

SMARTPLY for their generosity to our department at North Kent College,”

and education.”

said Dan Hopkins, lecturer in Carpentry and Joinery. “When I first learned

As a responsible manufacturer of innovative wood-based panels,

about the proposal outlined by Chris King, managing director at MEDITE

MEDITE SMARTPLY is committed to supporting local businesses and

SMARTPLY, I was truly thrilled. This partnership presents an outstanding

tradespeople by manufacturing a versatile, environmentally conscious

opportunity for our students to engage with high-quality products and

range of products that meets the user’s design and sustainability goals.

gain insights into their practical applications. Furthermore, the prospect of More at  https://mdfosb.com/en

industry-related seminars delivered by MEDITE SMARTPLY’s experts adds Timber Construction Magazine

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FEATURE  FIRE REGULATIONS

Fire Expertise at Your Fingertips Since its launch in March, the timber industry’s comprehensive fire safety website – Fire Safety. Wood in Construction – has become a valued resource for everyone in the timber construction supply chain.

T

he free to use resource for design, manufacture and

“This site brings together a wealth of knowledge and expertise

construction professionals gives users a single point

from across the construction spectrum,” says Andrew Carpenter, CEO

of access to information and guidance on this multi-

of the STA. “It is one of many projects we are working on to try and

faceted and safety-critical subject, it is designed for all

reduce barriers to the use of timber in construction. It’s also been good

construction professionals.

to have a true collaboration with our colleagues at Swedish Wood. We

Developed together by Swedish Wood, Timber Development UK

will continue to work together to promote best practice in all areas of

(TDUK) and the Structural Timber Association (STA), the site is subject

timber safety and design.”

to periodic review and a curated update process to reflect any changes

Anna Ryberg Ågren, director of Swedish Wood, adds: “We are

in regulation, outcomes of latest research and industry guidance.

delighted to be continuing our partnership with TDUK and the STA on

The information in this first iteration has been provided by technical

this important, independently verified, website. It forms part of our

and industry experts from the UK and Sweden, reviewed by a separate

aim to help UK building professionals in the construction sector access

expert group drawn from the UK timber industry and independent

factual information concerning timber and fire safety, as well as to be

consultants, including professor Julie Bregulla FREng, consultant to

able to link to like-minded information on a European level.”

Swedish Wood. “Understanding fire safety principles underpins good

The partners in this website have a robust process for reviewing and

design.” says Julie. “We hope this website brings an accessible and flexible

curating the site. Feedback on omissions, or links to further research

resource to the wider community to inform their design processes with

that could be considered for inclusion, is welcome (via the Feedback

timber solutions and facilitate their wider supply chain collaborations.”

form) and there are plans for regular updates.

Fire safety design can take many different pathways, influenced by More at  https://timberfiresafety.org

such factors as architectural vision, client demands and product choices.

This site gives the user underpinning principles and approaches, as well as background references and cross-links to further advice and

 The Future of Timber Construction

guidance, to provide them with context and UK industry resources in support of their wood projects. We cannot stress this enough,” says David Hopkins, CEO of TDUK. “The most important thing is to provide

The ‘Fire Safety. Wood in Construction’ website is edited and

designers with the principles of timber design for fire safety, not try to

curated by professor Julie Bregulla FREng, Dipl.-Ing, PhD,

do the design for them.”

CEng, FICE, MEWI, acting as consultant to Swedish Wood.

Authors include Dr Björn Källander, Dr Birgit Östman, James

Referencing European standards where appropriate, but with a focus

Walker and Björn Yndemark.

on UK regulations and standards, the site is designed so that a range of different users can explore subjects at different levels of detail – from

The expert reference group includes Nick Boulton (TDUK),

architects and structural engineers to building owners and the many

Alan Dowdall (Ramboll), Gordon Ewbank (WPA), Kelly Harrison

stakeholders making successful timber projects possible. Although the

(Whitby Wood), Matt Hoad (HTA Design), Matt Linegar, (Stora

site allows navigation to specific areas, users are encouraged to follow

Enso), Esko Mikkola (KK-Fireconsult Ltd) and Martin Milner

the suggested topic flow site map to get a good understanding of the

(Milner Associates).

inter-connectedness and multi-disciplinary nature of fire safety.

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 @Timber_Media

Timber Fire Safety website The timber industry’s comprehensive fire safety website acts as a single point of access to information and guidance for all construction professionals. It is available, free, at timberfiresafety.org The information has been provided by experts from the UK and Sweden, reviewed by a separate group drawn from the UK industry and independent consultants, including Professor Julie Bregulla FREng.

Although the site allows navigation to specific areas, users are encouraged to follow the suggested topic flow site map to get a good understanding of the multi-disciplinary nature of fire safety.

The site gives underpinning principles and approaches, as well as background references and cross-links to further advice and guidance, so as to provide context and UK industry resources in support of wood projects.

Referencing European standards, but with a focus on UK regulations and standards, the site is designed so that a range of different users can explore subjects at different levels of detail - from architects and structural engineers to building owners and the many stakeholders making successful timber projects possible.

About Fire Safety Timber in construction Fire safety in buildings Fire safety regulations Europe

UK

Design approaches

Designing for Fire Safety Loadbearing timber wall and floor assemblies

Connections

External walls and surfaces: fire performance considerations

Separating timber wall and floor assemblies Reaction to fire – internal surfaces

Managing Construction for Fire Safety Fire safety during construction

Active fire protection

Cavity barriers and Fire Stops

Fire fighting

Information management

timberfiresafety.org Timber Construction Magazine

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FEATURE  JOINERY & WOODWORKING

Driving Industry Development

Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) talks us through the BWF’s achievements this year, its key areas of focus for the next 12 months and how they are supporting the timber sector.

O

ver the past year, our industry has faced significant

professional development. It’s crucial that as a sector we demonstrate

and persistent hurdles. From supply chain disruptions

the diverse range of career opportunities available in our sector to

to escalating material costs and ongoing labour

attract new talent.

shortages, the operating environment for many firms

Through the BWF Wood Industry Training (WIT) Forum, we work

has been very tough.

closely with funding partners to support member training activity to improve and increase skills across the sector and ensure that routes into

But despite these challenges, there are reasons to be more optimistic

our sector are clear and achievable.

for the year ahead. Inflation is falling and looks set to drop further, and

There are already many routes into our sector, but it can often be

stimulus packages - such as the government’s support for housebuilding

complicated, and it’s part of our role to help our members navigate this.

announced in the Autumn Statement – will help support growth and boost skills. External conditions will always be unpredictable, but the BWF will continue to respond to the challenges facing our members and the wider sector.

Apprenticeships, regulated qualifications and upskilling Apprenticeship schemes are being increasingly recognised as a way of starting on a rewarding career path, allowing young people to earn while they learn.

Further government support for schemes this year has been encouraging. But funding and resource means nothing unless we can inspire young people



to take an apprenticeship route or to continue Timber Construction Magazine

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FEATURE  JOINERY & WOODWORKING

This year we started work on ‘Competency

through the BWF’s ongoing public affairs

Framework’ that will map the relevant routes

programme.

into the timber and woodworking manufacturing

The timber industry has long advocated

sector. The framework will focus on the skills and

the use of timber to reduce the embodied

training that companies require and will address

carbon impact of construction. We have

any skills gaps that are identified during the

developed strong relationships with

process. We look forward to providing updates

several parliamentarians and governmental

as this process continues.

departments, and as such have been working with our fellow stakeholders and the

Innovative training provision

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) on the Timber in Construction

The development of fit-for-purpose training and sector qualifications is a key priority for

(TiC) Roadmap, which we anticipate will be

the BWF and we’re continually evaluating our

launched by the Secretary of State for DEFRA

training offering to ensure it meets the changing needs of our members and wider industry.

The BWF has just held its 15th annual Awards

shortly. The Roadmap places manufacturers of timber products at the forefront of the

The competency of an individual is

government’s agenda and has been a key

fundamental to how well they perform in a

focus for the BWF over the last 12 months.

role, and in many cases, external factors govern the skills we need to evolve as an industry. The Building Safety Bill in 2022 has been one such driver, with a focus on roles relating to the installation of safety critical products, such as fire doors.

We know that for individuals who are new to fire door installation, it’s vital to seek quality-assured training provision to be able to demonstrate competence. The BWF, in collaboration with the NOCN Group, has developed an assured Fire Door Installation

“As an industry, we’re taking positive steps to highlight how wood is an inherently renewable material that can be used in place of those with a higher carbon footprint.”

As an industry, we’re taking positive steps to highlight how wood is an inherently renewable material that can be used in place of those with a higher carbon footprint. For example, the BWF is focused on helping consumers and the construction supply chain select more timber products in place of aluminium or PVCu alternatives for building products such as windows. Earlier this year the BWF published a report into homeowner attitudes towards timber products, which revealed a number of misconceptions over how they perform.

Awareness Course which supports best practice

The report provided our members with the

and improves appreciation of the factors

insight that will enable them to position their

involved in the appropriate installation of

products to the large number of homeowners

timber fire doors. In addition to this, any

considering renovation or refurbishment work

individual who is on a Level 3 Apprenticeship

to their properties.

in Site Carpentry & Joinery will be required

We’re also continuing to support our

to undertake the mandatory BWF/NOCN Fire

members who are fire door manufacturers,

Door Installation Awareness Course or the City

during a time of regulatory change which

and Guilds Level 3 Award in Fire Door Safety as

presents both opportunities and challenges.

part of their apprenticeship. This means we’ll

The BWF Fire Door Alliance’s ‘Be Certain,

see individuals who are entering the industry

Be Certified’ campaign continues to

gaining knowledge and experience in timber

educate audiences, including construction

fire door installation through a formal OFQUAL

professionals and architects, about the

regulated route, developing their individual

benefits of fire door third-party certification.

competence in this area.

While bolstered fire and building safety regulation provides an opportunity, on the

Embedding quality training and providing access to quality provision for existing regulated

one hand, proposed changes to classifications

training programmes, is a key focus for the

in Approved Document B could mean

BWF. There is a real opportunity to hone the

uncertainty and upheaval for manufacturers.

skills of the those who’ll be the future of our sector, while being able to

We’ll continue to lobby government to ensure the voice of our industry

demonstrate competence in certain disciplines to the end user.

is heard over this crucial issue.

Ensuring our sector has a voice

must focus our efforts on these key areas and keep our goals front of

To ensure our sector continues to grow and thrive year on year, we mind. The BWF has just held its 15th annual Awards, and I’ve never been

Alongside our commitment to training and professional development, maintaining and strengthening our relationships with the

more certain that our sector and the wider construction industry have the

government and industry is vital.

talent and passion to keep on getting stronger. The BWF will continue to play a key role in working with stakeholders across construction to ensure

It’s essential that we promote the use of timber as a sustainable

we maximise the many opportunities that lie ahead.

material, supporting the move towards net zero in our sector. This involves engaging with our members to identify their challenges and

More at  www.bwf.org.uk

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Advertise online with Timber Media’s Products and Services

For more details on how to subscribe to our online Products & Services Directory visit our website: www.timbermedia.co.uk/online-products-services-advertising or email hannah.jones@timbermedia.co.uk Timber Construction Magazine

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FEATURE  MASS TIMBER

CLT WorkStacks a Treat

dRMM have completed Charlton WorkStack, a pioneering new model for high-density industrial space on compact sites and is primarily constructed from cross laminated timber (CLT).

Image © dRMM Studio/Alex de Rijke

T

he client, Greenwich Enterprise Board (GEB), are a social enterprise developer providing affordable

workspace in the borough of Greenwich, south-east London. WorkStack answers a growing socio-economic need for industrial capacity while challenging the generic, land hungry, ‘tin shed’ default of light industrial buildings. Many London Boroughs have derestricted industrial land which is inevitably acquired for residential development,

“Why should ‘light industrial unit’ mean an ugly, cold metal shed with bad light and no view out?

WorkStack is a demonstration of a new kind of tough timber workspace that is warm, bright and practical. It also gives a powerful message that light industrial can mean socially and environmentally inspirational.”

Alex de Rijke, founding director of architects dRMM

forcing production away from city centres.

Designed to be affordable to rent, operate and maintain, these workshops encourage manufacturing in central London.

The distinctive cantilevered form gives the

“Why should ‘light industrial unit’ mean

building a powerful presence on the adjoining

an ugly, cold metal shed with bad light and

arterial road with a minimal footprint, the

no view out?” says Alex de Rijke, founding

110 sqm (600 - 1,200sq ft) offering tenants

progressive overhangs working as both solar

director of architects dRMM. “WorkStack

choice and growth within the building. The

shading and covered delivery area. In keeping

is a demonstration of a new kind of tough

units provide workspace for approximately

with the ‘log stack’ inspiration for the form,

timber workspace that is warm, bright and

60 people, equating to a density of 428

the material palette is simple. An engineered

practical. It also gives a powerful message

employees per hectare compared to the

mass timber structure with limited steel,

that light industrial can mean socially and

London industrial average of 69 employees

polycarbonate, glass and rubber introduced

environmentally inspirational.”

per hectare. Occupiers include furniture

only where function or regulation demanded.

WorkStack is on track to be BREEAM

makers, knitwear producers, workwear

Each building element is designed to be as

Excellent. The cross laminated timber (CLT)

manufacturers and a bicycle/motorcycle

efficient as possible – a direct design without

stacked structure sequesters 343 metric tonnes

workshop.

excess of any kind.

of carbon, with around 21% less upfront

WorkStack’s 14 units vary between 55 -

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FEATURE  MASS TIMBER

Image © dRMM Studio/Alex de Rijke

embodied carbon than LETI’s 2030 Design

WorkStack follows a series of timber

and a recipient of Good Growth Funding,

Target (of 350kgCO₂ /m²), and 44% less than

buildings for dRMM across multiple

WorkStack is designed to create a new class

RIBA’s 2030 Built Target for whole life carbon

sectors, through different structures and

of high-density industrial buildings which can

(of 750 kgCO₂ /m²). The panelised construction

at differing scales. This project successfully

be integrated within mixed-use development

reduces time on-site, creates a safer and cleaner

demonstrates the viability of timber in an

across cities.

working environment and minimises material

urban environment. Backed by the GLA as

waste. The loadbearing timber walls and ceilings

an exemplar for industrial intensification,

More at  drmmstudio.com

are exposed throughout. This beautiful and economical solution eliminates the need for additional internal finishes, reduces associated material resources and environmental impacts, whilst offering biophilic benefits to users.

“I first contacted dRMM when searching for new approaches to the building of urban workspace,” says Michael Finlay, director, GEB. “I was extremely lucky, because I found there a wealth of experience and expertise in the use of timber and particularly of CLT. After a period of thorough planning and development, the Charlton Workstack was devised and eventually built – it now provides outstanding accommodation for fourteen SMEs in an area where space is becoming increasingly scarce.

I believe that dRMM have part of the answer to the problems of such scarcity, and also the imagination and commitment to bring new techniques to bear.”

Timber Construction Magazine

Image © dRMM Studio/Alex de Rijke

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FEATURE  MASS TIMBER

Peace and Timber Understanding

The New Temple Complex, designed by architects James Gorst uses timber technology to its fullest potential and is a multi-award-winning triumph of sustainable design.

T

Created for the White Eagle Lodge and located on the

engineered timber frames manufactured offsite, facing clay brickwork

spur of a hillside with expansive views across the South

set within chalk lime mortar, and reuse of the concrete from the

Downs National Park, the new temple is grounded on

previous building’s foundations, the New Temple Complex is a triumph

what is believed to be an ancient ley line. The multifaith

of sustainable design that evokes quiet contemplation and a spiritual

community complex, has already many plaudits winning the Low

connection to the landscape. Heating is provided by a ground source

Energy Project of the Year and Winner of Winners Award at the

heat pump, buried in the landscape and powered from a photovoltaic

Structural Timber Awards 2023, the Gold Award at the Wood Awards

panel array located on-site, while an innovative raised floor slab

2023 and also won the AJ Architecture Awards Design of the Year.

provides passive cooling to the internal spaces with fresh air supplied by an underground labyrinth ventilation system.

Through a celebration of the natural materiality deeply embedded in the area’s local history, New Temple Complex is forward looking,

Jim Greaves, principal of Hopkins Architects and lead Wood Awards

yet characterised by peaceful simplicity and serenity. Open to the

Buildings judge, said: “On approach, the New Temple Complex is a beautiful

public, the building comprises of orthogonal, timber framed pavilions,

composition of material and colour. It is a remarkable example of great

connected by a cloistered walkway, while facing onto a central

architecture with so many layers, within which timber is used exceptionally

courtyard garden. Within the complex exists a temple, library, chapels, a

well – all with meticulous finishes. The glulam domed roof is effortlessly

multi-use community hall, public foyer, and catering kitchen.

elegant, while the connection to nature is continually considered.”

The spruce and Siberian larch glulam structural frame is FSC

Designed to welcome visitors from all faiths and corners of the world, New Temple Complex takes inspiration from the sixteenth

certified, with plywood sheet materials PEFC certified. Internal timber is

century Sikh Golden Temple in Amritsar, featuring a square plan with

sustainably sourced Ash, supplied 11 miles from the site and is certified

entrances on each of the cardinal points. An ancient pathway known as

‘Grown in Britain’.

The Shipwright’s Way runs beside the site, passing clay beds and chalk streams, following a Tudor pathway used to transport by timber from ancient oak forests to the shipbuilding city of Portsmouth.

The building makes use of each of these materials, including ash from the nearby New Forest.

The building demonstrates an exemplar approach to passive design and long-term sustainability. James Gorst Architects adopted

“Between engineered timber frames manufactured offsite, facing clay brickwork set within chalk lime mortar, and reuse of the concrete from the previous building’s foundations, the New Temple Complex is a triumph of sustainable design.”

a ‘fabric-first’ approach to the build. Between Timber Construction Magazine

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FEATURE  MASS TIMBER

New Temple Complex was built by Beard Construction with joinery from Kingsdown Joinery, and the assistance of Quantity Surveyors Jackson Coles. The wood supplier was English Woodlands Timber, while the structural frame was provided by Pacegrade. The temple’s structural design comprises 48 glulam beams, arranged radially and dividing into 12 bays to line up with the pieces in the arches, then terminating around a ring beam, engraved with the 12 signs of the zodiac.

More at  www.jamesgorstarchitects.com  www.white-eagle.org.uk  www.structuraltimberawards.co.uk All images: New Temple Complex by James Gorst Architects. © Rory Gardiner

 www.woodawards.com

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FEATURE  CONFERENCES & AWARDS

Dates for your Diary 2024 If you are interested in learning more about timber and offsite construction and the associated manufacturing processes then the following industry events may be of interest: 19 & 20 March

 www.modularmatters.co.uk

Modular Matters - Coventry Building Society Arena

With a wider and more diverse programme than ever, Modular Matters brings together volumetric modular innovators and change-leaders to separate the facts from fiction and determine the actions needed to make radical transformative change.

16 April

 www.structuraltimberconference.co.uk

Structural Timber Conference - Birmingham

Celebrating the success and leading the conversations shaping the future of timber. In a world of increasing focus on circularity and sustainability, the 2024 conference asks ‘what’s important right now?’ for the structural timber sector.

22 & 23 May

MMC Ireland National Conference - The Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny

 www.mmcireland.ie

One of the latest and most well-received additions to the offsite industry calendar, MMC Ireland National Conference offers fresh perspective and insight into the trends, technologies and engineering innovation driving the Irish offsite construction market.

17 & 18 Sept

 www.offsite-expo.co.uk

Offsite Expo - Coventry Building Society Arena

OFFSITE EXPO brings together those who are driving change in the construction sector – the event will play host to the leading UK and international offsite manufacturers and component suppliers over two days in September 2024

17 Sept

Offsite Awards - 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY - Co-located with Offsite Expo

 www.offsiteawards.co.uk

Recognising the iconic projects from across the offsite sector, the Offsite Awards showcase the people and businesses pioneering the new technology, building methods, systems and designs raising the standards of safety, sustainability, social and financial value in construction. ENTRY DEADLINE: 31.05.24  www.structuraltimberawards.co.uk

Structural Timber Awards - 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY National Conference Centre, Birmingham

02 Oct

Now in its tenth year, the Structural Timber Awards promises to be bigger, better and more inspiring than ever. The 2024 awards will reward the companies instigating change, delivering outstanding projects and raising awareness of the efficiency, reliability and sustainability of structural timber. ENTRY DEADLINE: 21.06.24

05 & 06 Nov

 Website Coming Soon

Innovate Conference - Birmingham

Innovate will bring together those with the insight to evaluate transformative innovations and explore how they can be used in a real-world context to radically advance how buildings are designed, developed and delivered.

05 Nov

 Website Coming Soon

Innovate Awards - Co-located with Innovate Conference

Rewarding all those designing and developing the future of construction technology. This exciting inaugural event will throw the spotlight on the booming Industry 4.0 and the world of digital tools, smart construction and sophisticated new ways transforming the built environment. ENTRY DEADLINE: 12.07.24

04 Dec

Construction Productivity Conference - Central London

 www.constructionproductivity.co.uk

Bringing together a host of industry leaders to discuss strategy, opportunity, and the future of productivity in the built environment.

Delegates will have the opportunity to learn about new practices from those at the forefront of construction productivity.

INFORMING THE UK CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Join over 130 leading companies and become a listed supplier in the Offsite Hub Directory Get a lifetime listing for a one-off fee of just £600 Email robert.aitken@radar-communications.co.uk to book!

WWW.OFFSITEHUB.CO.UK

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Nail it down with confidence!

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(Allowed tolerances -3mm/+3mm)

Factory graded roofing battens, we control by: Automated and visual grading of the raw material as well as the batten at commercial speed, final visual grading ensures nothing is missed and every piece is double checked, from dimension, knot size, wane, resin pockets, to slope of grain.

Full Chain of Custody certification FSC, PEFC. Confirms timber used in production is sourced from legal, responsible, sustainably managed forests.

SRGBA1123 V2 | © SIG Trading Ltd 2023. All rights reserved. *See product datasheet for more information at: sr-timber.co.uk/Product/sr-timber-premium-gold-roofing-batten.

Vacsol Aqua Preservative, treated to BS 8417:2011* Impregnated to Use Class 2 by double vacuum/low pressure water based preservative. Protection with our standard 60 service life against insect attack and wood rotting fungi. (When used correctly and installed above dpc level in buildings).

Product stamped, (each piece), showing: Producer, Imported and/or species code, Graded BS5534, Size, Independent 3rd Party Accreditation*. *As recommended by the NFRC & TDUK, using an independent certification company being UKAS accredited, of which audits both material and processes verifying conformity

Wood Protection Association - WPA Quality Approval Certification Audited as an approved treater and capable of producing treated wood to the correct Use Class(es).

Use class of treatment is stated on a all documentation.

Each delivery is accompanied with documentation stating; Supplier, Imported, Graded in accordance with BS 5534, Sizes, Type of treatment.

THE FUTURE IS

GOLDEN! 01623 446 800 | www.sr-timber.co.uk

SAVE THE DATE 16.04.2024

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