Structural Timber Magazine - Issue 25 Autumn by Radar Communications

AUTUMN 2020 | £4.95

STRUCTURAL TIMBER The latest in structural timber building design and technologies STRUCTURALTIMBERMAGAZINE.CO.UK

ZÜBLIN TIMBER STROUD CHAPEL: NEW FORMS OF STYLE AND SOPHISTICATION

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Structural Timber Awards

With 16 categories, nearly 160 entrants and over 100 companies shortlisted, see who has made the grade for the 2020 event.

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Swedish Style & Sustainability

We spoke to Graeme Culliton, BoKlok Managing Director and Country Manager about delivering volumetric timber homes.

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Silver Highlights

Working hard over 25 issues to bring you a range of industry developments, we picked out some memorable moments from our back issues.

DESIGN

TECHNOLOGY

SUSTAINABILITY

INTERVIEWS

NEWS

ANALYSIS

CASE STUDIES

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WELCOME Welcome to the last edition of Structural Timber Magazine for 2020. It has been a difficult year for everyone, no matter which walk of life you may be in but the timber sector has been resilient in coping with the serious challenges to business and trading the pandemic has thrown up.

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©Radar Communications Ltd. RELATED EVENTS: www.structuraltimber.co.uk/events www.timbertalks.co.uk www.structuraltimberawards.co.uk www.offsite-expo.co.uk DISCLAIMER: The content of Structural Timber Magazine does not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or publishers and are the views of its contributors and advertisers. The digital edition may include hyperlinks to third-party content, advertising, or websites, provided for the sake of convenience and interest. The publishers accept no legal responsibility for loss arising from information in this publication and do not endorse any advertising or products available from external sources. No part of this publication may be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system without the written consent of the publishers. All rights reserved.

As we reach the end of 2020, businesses trading timber are being urged by the UK Government to take action to ensure they are prepared for the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December. In particular they are pressing home the point that due diligence checks should take place on timber flow in a number of settings. From 1 January 2021, the European Timber Regulation (EUTR) and Forest Law Enforcement, Governance and Trade (FLEGT) action plan will become UK domestic legislation as the UK Timber Regulations and FLEGT action plan. The requirements under the UK Regulations remain the same as under EUTR. Everyone should be aware of the Northern Ireland Protocol – a new free-to-use Trader Support Service will provide support and guidance to businesses moving goods under it. There is a mass of information on the obligations and legalities available on the Government web resources and Office for Product Safety and Standards. The Timber Trade Federation has also launched a free Due Diligence Toolkit to help companies importing and exporting timber and timber products ‘better understand, conduct and report due diligence’ under the EU/UK Timber Regulation.

A big part of this issue is given over to the many fantastic entries shortlisted for the 2020 Structural Timber Awards. A delayed ceremony will take place in 2021 to applaud the winners from this year. Now in their sixth year, the judging panel spent many hours assessing architectural strengths, engineering capabilities and the sheer versatility of those working with wood. We also hear more about BoKlok this issue and the role it’s playing in bringing sustainable volumetric timber homes to Bristol and beyond. Finally, a bit of self-promotion as we publish issue 25 – over the last six years we have attempted to provide a detailed overview of the structural timber sector in all its many facets. So later this issue we have picked out some memorable moments from across the back catalogue. Many thanks to all our contributors, advertisers and supporters in these seemingly endless difficult times – and that’s across 25 issues – we couldn’t have done it without you. Keep well…

Gary Ramsay | Consultant Editor E: gary.ramsay@structuraltimbermagazine.co.uk

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CONTENTS

THISISSUE... P6

P28 FABRIC FIRST SUPERSTRUCTURE

COVER STORY - ZÜBLIN TIMBER Created from cross laminated timber (CLT) panels and glulam beams, Stroud Chapel is a new, warm and inviting place of worship for the Christian Community that followed specific design guidance for symmetry, light and movement and delivers a new form of style and sophistication.

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UK INDUSTRY NEWS A quick round-up of some recent news stories from the timber and construction sectors that you may have missed including: JR Group launches a new timber kit division, Beattie Passive expands into a larger facility and businesses trading timber are urged to prepare for the end of the Brexit transition period.

Stoneham Park Academy is a brand new £5.6million, 1.5 form entry school, designed by Hampshire County Council’s award-winning property services team, which successfully used a compact and energy-efficient offsite design.

P30 GET READY TO CELEBRATE

With a delayed ceremony due to take place in 2021, we highlight all those shortlisted from the 2020 entries that saw another record number to give the judges a tough task in choosing the timber industry’s best across 16 categories.

P42 STILL STUNNING: THE MACALLAN DISTILLERY

Metsä Wood update us on the work at the Macallan Distillery where Kerto LVL (laminated veneer lumber) helped deliver a hugely successful award-winning project, drawing praise from construction and whisky enthusiasts everywhere.

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BUILD BACK BETTER WITH TIMBER Net zero carbon targets are putting material use in the spotlight across many parts of the construction sector. The Wood CO2ts less campaign is putting the spotlight on using more timber to help the UK to ‘build back better’.

P44 DELIVERING SWEDISH STYLE & SUSTAINABILITY

Although BoKlok may be an unfamiliar brand name in the UK, its joint owners Skanska and IKEA are familiar faces. Graeme Culliton, BoKlok Managing Director and Country Manager told us things are about to change.

P46 SILVER SERVICE

P24

VOX POPS

Our regular column collects some views and opinion from a range of industry insiders, covering a few topical issues affecting the timber sector and the wider construction world. We hear from Max Bishop, Nick Boulton, David Connacher, Robert Hairstans, John Mellor and Luke Roberts.

We celebrate 25 editions of Structural Timber Magazine with a quick flick through some back issues to pick out some memorable moments from the many industry developments we have featured.

P56 DRIVING NET ZERO CONSTRUCTION

Sam Hart, Innovation Manager at the Construction Scotland Innovation Centre, outlines why now is the time to sustainably manufacture the built environment.

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COVER STORY ZÜBLIN TIMBER

STROUD CHAPEL: NEW FORMS OF STYLE AND SOPHISTICATION the planning, manufacture, delivery and assembly of the CLT and glulam elements, as well as the complex steel components.

01 Created from cross laminated timber (CLT) panels and glulam beams, Stroud Chapel is a new, warm and inviting place of worship for client Christian Community that followed specific design guidance for symmetry, light and movement. Inspired by the great cathedral builders, where the design of the interior is derived from a fusion of ecclesiastical function and structural efficiency, the project team wanted to capture these essential qualities and give them a

contemporary interpretation. The early design development was driven by structural explorations with the architecture then essentially derived from the structural design. The acoustic performance of the chapel was also of paramount importance for the client both in terms of music and the spoken word. The concept was to create architecture that had no historical references to earlier religious buildings and had to be accessible to all regardless of their faith. The visible grade CLT structure is left exposed internally and takes the form of an innovative ‘folding panel construction’ – reminiscent of the stone vaulting found in historic cathedrals. CLT created new possibilities for the architecture and planning involved, with ZÜBLIN Timber responsible for

STRUCTURALTIMBERMAGAZINE.CO.UK

The engineers wanted to create a pure, elegant folded plate form internally, where walls flowed into the ceiling with no downstand beams, a view subsequently shared by the client. As the CLT panels would be left exposed and thereby forming an integral part of the chapel aesthetic, the challenge was to ensure there were no visible connection details. The team explored how CLT could be used as ‘folded plates’ with structural efficiency and elegance obtained by a form geometry which also creates a lively dynamic feel as well as a timeless stillness. The creative process started from the early conceptual development of the folded plate geometries which worked structurally, architecturally and could be readily fabricated from standard CLT panel sizes. The structural folded plates are elegantly proportioned and allow the smooth flow of forces from the vaulted ceiling to the ground. Within the chapel space, no two planes meet at right angles and therefore required an acute attention to tolerance and detail. Whilst being efficient structurally, vaulted roofs can be difficult to build. Initially a birdcage scaffold was proposed which would remove the programme and cost benefits of a prefabricated structure. ZÜBLIN Timber recommended the installation of temporary timber props to the head of the glulam columns and down to the adjacent flat roofs, creating

COVER STORY ZÜBLIN TIMBER roof structure would. Advanced analytical techniques were pioneered by the structural engineer Corbett & Tasker, using a finite element (FE) stiffness matrix utilising in-plane and out-of-plane bending, shear and axial forces, reflecting the orthotropic nature of the panels. This allowed ZÜBLIN Timber to creatively use the two distinct load paths to justify the form of the roof and slim down the structure developed at scheme design stage.

02 three temporary glulam arches which supported the CLT panels during construction. Stroud Chapel has a 39% reduction in embodied energy compared to the current baseline, not taking sequestered carbon into account which would improve this figure still further. This reduction was achieved by using of sustainably sourced engineered timber as the primary structure and from minimising concrete elements in the substructure through use of a piled slab, negating pile caps and ground beams. The embodied carbon footprint of the structure is 294 kg CO2e/m2, calculated using the ‘Inventory of Carbon and Energy’, manufacturer information and the H\B:ERT tool, excluding sequestered carbon. The use of CLT to create an airtight structure will further reduce ongoing carbon emissions together with energy and maintenance costs for the lifetime of the building. Despite the 3D complexity of the folded plate walls and roof, the erection of the superstructure took eight weeks, reducing the impact on the local community. A major but simple innovation was the placing of glulam stiffening ribs above the CLT panels along the fold lines which gave the major benefit of concealing connections, stiffening the panels and acting as permanent formwork. The combination of the CLT panels and glulam ribs allowed for the innovative use of two main load paths. Firstly, the predominant load path is an arch spanning 17.5m in the long axis of

the chapel, formed by the folded nature of the 120mm thick CLT panels, with the lateral thrust resisted in the chapel walls. As walls are much stiffer in-plane than out-of-plane and the chapel is oval, it was found that this was the optimum path for gravitational loads. Studies have showed that adding a ring beam around the top of the walls helped increase this effect. Secondly, the concealed, maximum, 300mm deep ribs act as a framed structure, working compositely as inverted T-beams with the CLT panels. The panels span in bending and shear between the ribs, as a more traditional

The construction cost for the chapel, ancillary spaces, foyer link with the new community hall and external landscaping was delivered on time and to budget. The total of £1.96million was within the budget advised by the cost consultants and was seen by the client as good value for money. The building has been warmly received by the congregation and has attracted interest both locally and nationally. Reverend Tom Ravetz, leader of the Christian Community in the UK said: “The impression of the space is one of breath-taking beauty and simplicity. I am sure that it will be a wonderful space for worship.” www.zueblin-timber.com/en

IMAGES: 01-02. Stroud Chapel. Courtesy Fernando Manoso

ZÜBLIN TIMBER ZÜBLIN Timber stands for ambitious and pioneering solutions in timber construction. We are your single-source provider for the development, production, delivery and execution of high-quality construction systems, from timber projects, timber engineering and timber facade installation. ZÜBLIN Timber works hand-in-hand with its clients to develop efficient solutions and a sustainable quality of life. Design & Build – hand in hand with local project teams of architects and engineers, ZÜBLIN Timber develop, design, produce and build timber solutions with 100% passion for your project. Production – direct access to own modern production facilities ensures flexible and individual manufacturing of a high variety of timber components like CLT, glulam and timber facades. Installation – using decades of experience in project management, project execution and the assembly of timber structures, ZÜBLIN Timber teams are able to guarantee clients a reliable, high-quality construction process. No matter if your project is a multi-storey building, a geometrical complex structure or a building (timber glass) facade – ZÜBLIN Timber is your partner to realise your vision in timber.

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UK INDUSTRY NEWS MEDITE SMARTPLY LAUNCH SMARTPLY MAX FR B

“This is a solution that has potential in a huge range of applications and industries, encompassing many modern methods of construction such as offsite and timber frame construction, light gauge steel and modular construction systems, as well as temporary structures. Whatever the sector, all customers can rest assured that this board’s flame retardance will hold to Euroclass B standard, even when cut to size, which makes it different to other FR boards out there.” At MEDITE SMARTPLY, we want to support a safer, wider future for timber buildings, that will enable the wider construction industry to work more sustainably and more efficiently, truly building for the future. This has been one of our main motivations in developing SMARTPLY MAX FR B.”

MEDITE SMARTPLY has now launched SMARTPLY MAX FR B, the brand new Euroclass B OSB3, a market innovation bringing increased safety and reliability to an industry contingent on safety and predictability. SMARTPLY MAX FR B is the first Euroclass B board—the maximum Euroclass rating for a timber panel—manufactured in the UK and Ireland to feature wood flakes treated with flame retardant solution before pressing. This ensures its flame retardance is integral and maintains its structural integrity, unlike many post-treated alternatives, making it the safer choice for use within timber frame construction, or projects that will require a large amount of timber product. “We are extremely excited to introduce SMARTPLY MAX FR B to the marketplace, expanding our already extensive SMARTPLY OSB range,” comments Richard Allen, Sales Director at MEDITE SMARTPLY. “In SMARTPLY MAX FR B, customers can expect all the fantastic benefits of a SMARTPLY OSB board, with the addition of ZeroIgnition® solution, a water based and environmentally friendly flame retardant which is added during panel production.

Manufactured using advanced resin technology that results in a high performance, no added formaldehyde panel, SMARTPLY MAX FR B can help specifying architects, contractors and fabricators contribute to the creation of safer, healthier environments. SMARTPLY MAX FR B also complies with the performance requirements in the Structural Timber Association’s FR BUILD “Design guide to separating distances during construction” for timber frame buildings above 600m² total floor area. We refer to this product as SMARTPLY MAX FR/FR BUILD within our range. SMARTPLY MAX FR/FR BUILD can be used in a timber frame building when mitigation measures are required due to the distance from neighbouring buildings. There are wall and floor systems outlined within the guide which give points towards the overall building, this satisfies any mitigation that may be required. Please refer to the STA guide for more information. SMARTPLY MAX FR B meets with the requirements of European Standards EN 300 and EN 13986, while also complying with the European reaction to fire class B-s2,d0 and Bfl-s1. Boards can be manufactured in largescale formats of up to 2.8m wide by 7.5m long, making it ideal for offsite manufacturing, alongside traditional building. mdfosb.com/en/smartply/products smartply-max-fr-b

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NEW VACSOL FROM LONZA

VACSOL 6118 is now available to treatment companies in the UK and European markets. The future of construction timbers requires a low pressure preservative that will meet BPR requirements and bring an innovative and future-proofed system, environmentally advanced credentials, new level of preservative performance and operational ease of use. “VACSOL 6118 is a proprietary technology to Lonza, designed, developed and manufactured by our own teams,” says Andy Hodge, Lonza’s Marketing Director. “It offers a simple conversion process and individual customer set-up managed by our engineering and field technical teams. VACSOL 6118 is a BPR-authorised metal-free formulation. This brings big environmental advantages to our treatment customers and to the treated timbers they produce. We are supplying the new product in a concentrate form that is easily diluted on-site ready for treatment, reducing our delivery CO2 footprint. Our BPR authorisation also means VACSOL 6118 is safe to humans, animals and our environment. “We have developed VACSOL 6118 with novel and extremely powerful new actives as well as an innovative and effective ‘booster’ technology to the VAC-VAC treatment process. The new product will bring wider solution strength options to suit specific components to be treated, giving focused treatment uptakes to help reduce treatment costs. VACSOL 6118 is supplied as a clear product but we can offer simple-to-use colour additives for identification purposes. We promised our customers a timely, future-proofed continuation for their business. VACSOL 6118 delivers an exciting, innovative, real world result.” www.lonza.com

UK INDUSTRY NEWS KRONOSPAN UK EXPANDS RANGE OF PANEL PRODUCTS

Kronospan supply chain partners are now able to source softwood plywood either delivered directly in full loads ex-quay or as part of a mixed-load from Chirk with other Kronobuild products P5 TG Chipboard, MDF and OSB3.

Manufactured at its new plywood mill in Belarus which features state-of-the-art technology and automation Ultra Ply is an important new addition to an already extensive range of wood-based panel solutions. It gives partners the ability to buy softwood plywood promptly from landed stock without the commitment and foresight necessary to purchase forward consignments. Ultra Ply is manufactured from sustainable and locally sourced FSC and PEFC-certified scots pine timber and features thick 3.2mm veneers for increased stability and edge strength. Precise veneer preparation is ensured by using the latest technology. All boards are CE Marked and comply with the highest class of moisture resistance EN636 – Class 3 for external use. The mill can produce in a range of thickness from 9-40mm and with four different face grades from a decorative Grade 1 through to an Industrial Grade1V.

From UK stock Kronospan will offer popular thicknesses 9-24mm in Grades 11/111 and 111/111 all 2440 x 1220mm board size plus 2400 x 1200 x 18mm TG2 long edges. “New Ultra Ply is a great addition to our palette of products and is the right product at the right time,” say Kronospan. “The supply dynamics on plywood are changing in line with world events and demands and having the ability to purchase well priced, reliable, consistent quality softwood plywood from Europe is the way forward. Reducing carbon footprints and more sustainable purchasing strategies will be critical in the supply chain as we move forward and Kronobuild Ultra Ply can help customers and construction industries achieve these goals.” www.uk.kronospan-express.com/en

SAXON REACH GETS OFFSITE BOOST L&Q is delivering 225 new homes at Saxon Reach in Milton Keynes using offsite manufactured timber frame. All properties at Saxon Reach – ranging from one-bedroom apartments to fivebedroom homes – are being constructed with Stewart Milne Timber Systems (SMTS), promising a more energy efficient build and significantly lower running costs for new residents. Setting the benchmark for future homes, Saxon Reach’s timber frame properties form part of L&Q’s New-Build Homes: Quality Standard promise, a commitment to delivering premium fixtures, fittings and appliances as standard at no additional cost to the buyer. All apartments at Saxon Reach come with private outdoor space. Debi Lama, National Account Manager at Stewart Milne Timber Systems, said: “Our ambitious partnership with L&Q is not only reducing build costs for the Housing Association, meaning that the charitable organisation has more money to re-invest

back into existing communities and other new homes, but is also delivering the highest standard of construction for buyers. We believe that L&Q are setting the standard for housebuilding in the UK and look forward to seeing happy new residents on site at Saxon Reach.” Saxon Reach is part of the wider Glebe Farm development area, a growing new residential quarter for Milton Keynes, which will meet the demands of the budding town. Glebe Farm will deliver new retail and commercial facilities, a doctor’s surgery and sports and leisure facilities, as well as an extension of the Milton Keynes Redway system – a 200 mile network of shared use paths for cyclists and pedestrians. The site will also be home to a new school – welcoming children from primary age up to the end of secondary school.

Christine Osborne, Sales and Customer Services Director (Counties) at L&Q, added: “We are proud to be partnering with SMTS to deliver innovative new homes for our buyers in Milton Keynes. As well as significantly reducing household bills, offsite timber solutions are vital in addressing housing shortfalls in the area – allowing us to deliver homes up to 30% quicker, particularly important in an area like Milton Keynes that has seen significant population and employment growth over recent years. We are pleased to be offering local residents the opportunity to purchase a high quality new homes in this thriving new district, paving the way for future newbuilds in the area.” http://bit.ly/SaxonReachTimberFrame

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UK INDUSTRY NEWS TIMBER TRADERS URGED TO PREPARE FOR JANUARY 2021

Businesses trading timber between Great Britain (GB) and Northern Ireland (NI) are being urged by the UK Government to take action to ensure they are prepared for the end of the transition period on 31 December 2020. The government has confirmed: • • • •

Due diligence checks will take place on timber flowing from Great Britain to Northern Ireland Due diligence checks will take place on timber flowing from the European Union (EU) to GB and GB to EU No new due diligence checks will take place on timber flowing from NI to GB No new due diligence checks will take place on timber flowing from the EU to NI.

There will be no changes to the current process for businesses importing from outside of the EU and UK producers first placing timber on the internal market – they will still need to carry out due diligence as before. To comply with their obligations, timber traders will be required to tell the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS): Who they bought the timber from:

Who they sold it to (regardless of species, product or country of origin), through evidence such as an invoice. Both traders and operators (importers) will be required to keep records for five years. In the same way as they do now, operators are required to exercise due diligence to ensure that timber and timber products have not been illegally harvested. The changes will be relevant to a range of businesses who use timber, including importers and operators, exporters, those working in the construction industry, furniture manufacturers, paper and pulp manufactures, and the forestry industry. There will be no change to the way timber due diligence requirements are enforced. However, failure to comply with the timber regulations and enforcement ranges from warning letters, through to court cases, to an unlimited fine and up to 2 years in prison. Importers of timber from third countries already have to carry out due diligence, except if they are importing from a country which has an operational Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) in place and that import is covered by a FLEGT licence.

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From 1st January 2021, the European Timber Regulation (EUTR) and FLEGT will become UK domestic legislation as the UK Timber Regulations and FLEGT. The requirements under the UK Regulations remain the same as under EUTR. The new free-to-use Trader Support Service will provide support and guidance to businesses moving goods under the Northern Ireland Protocol. Businesses who sign up to the Trader Support Service will be guided through the new processes under the Northern Ireland Protocol and can also use it to complete digital declarations. The Timber Trade Federation (TTF) has launched a free TTF Due Diligence Toolkit to help companies importing and exporting timber and timber products better understand, conduct and report due diligence under the EU/UK Timber Regulation. Users of the tool will be provided with the essentials of due diligence. You can download the toolkit at: https://ttf.co.uk/members/duediligence-toolkit/

UK INDUSTRY NEWS UK HOUSING FIRST FOR BRISTOL

A UK first has taken place in a car park in Bristol when 11 zero carbon ZED PODS apartments were craned into place. The development, designed by award-winning modular housing company ZED PODS, will see the one and two bedroom-apartments built on a podium above a car park. This groundbreaking development is being delivered in partnership with Bristol City Council, Bristol Housing Festival, YMCA and Bristol and Bath Regional Capital.

The factory-built modular units can be erected within days and are designed to be zero carbon, energy neutral and have the lowest possible running costs. Each unit is precision-made in a factory environment to high environmental standards and comes with full BOPAS (Build Off-site Property Assurance Scheme) accreditation. Because the development takes advantage of the air rights above a council owned car park, the land cost has been removed thus making the development extremely affordable. This is also the first 100% socially rented development of its kind in the country. This environmental and socially focused development will deliver necessary council housing in St George for young people in need of affordable housing and those at risk of housing crisis, including NHS workers. Bristol City Council, who purchased the ZED PODS development, is now working with YMCA Bristol to seek tenants. ZED PODS Operations Director Dr Rehan Khodabuccus said: “We wanted to address key worker and affordable housing issues

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without compromising on our values of sustainability and quality. We are very pleased that Bristol City Council has had the foresight to partner with us direct and are so enthusiastic about the potential for more developments like this. We have very much enjoyed working hand in hand with them to create what we hope will be a significant solution to the housing crisis and welcome their open mindedness about innovations such as these.” Jez Sweetland, Bristol Housing Festival Project Director, said: “This was one of the projects that came about as a result of our five year Bristol Housing Festival that started in 2018 which is all about trying out new ideas and re-imagining better ways to live in our cities. Our aim has always been to deliver tangible projects and so I am thrilled that the ZED PODS project is now actually a reality and that there are other projects in the pipeline.” www.zedpods.com

STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS 2020

‘PIONEER OF THE YEAR’ FINALISTS

UK INDUSTRY NEWS TREES VITAL FOR POST-COVID-19 WELLBEING The government’s England Tree Stratgey must be clear in setting out the role of trees in supporting biodiversity and public health post-COVID-19, says the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI). The strategy, due to be published later this year, is particularly relevant to the planning profession in the light of the government’s recent Planning White Paper which committed to combat climate change and improve biodiversity through the planning system. The white paper also reaffirmed a commitment to make all new streets tree-lined, but the RTPI says there will be a need for increased resourcing, guidance

NEW FUTURE LEADERS’ FORUM TO TRANSFORM SKILLS

Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC) is calling on early career professionals and students with drive, ambition and determination to join a new Built Environment Future Leaders’ Forum. This groundbreaking initiative will promote the development of new skills, competencies and opportunities in the sector to inspire the future workforce of the construction industry.

and specialist support to deliver on this ambition. The RTPI also says the strategy would be most effective if it outlined the need for ‘intelligent’ tree planting targets that looked at the quality and type of trees and the local tree resource rather than just the quantity. RTPI Vice President Wei Yang FRTPI said: “The experiences of lockdown and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have reemphasised the multiple benefits provided by access to green spaces – the England Tree Strategy should set out how trees can support public health and wellbeing, biodiversity, amenity, clean air, carbon capture and a green economic recovery. “The RTPI’s Plan The World We Need report highlighted the importance of access to green spaces and it is clear that trees are central to the vitality of those spaces. The planning system will have an important role to play in delivering an effective strategy. CSIC is looking for early career professionals and students who are already active in the industry and have a passion about the built environment, to work together to build the mindset, skills and agility needed in a rapidly changing landscape. The forum’s aim is to ensure the voice of the future workforce is heard, so that the industry can better understand how to attract new talent, and that others are inspired to follow a career in the sector. Lisa Deane, Lead Future Skills Manager at CISC, said: “There is both a skills shortage in the sector and there are new types of skills needed with changing ways of delivering our built environment. The Built Environment Future Leaders’ Forum is a way to ensure we understand how to attract and support the development of existing and new skills in the sector, and how we optimise routes of entry into the industry for them.” “This is a really exciting opportunity for those in their early careers, who are passionate about the built environment with an interest in better and innovative ways to shape our built world. It’s a chance to be an influencer and ambassador in your field in a way that hasn’t been possible before – the sector needs your input.”

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There will be a need to support planners, including by restoring funding for local authority tree officers with professional qualifications and expertise, so that trees can survive and thrive for future generations to enjoy.” In its consultation response, the RTPI also says that it is making the case for a ‘total environment plan’ which takes a holistic approach to all environmental matters, including trees. Such a plan, the RTPI says, would encourage a more joined-up approach to all relevant environmental and biodiversity issues. www.rtpi.org.uk

The Forum will be a group of up to 12 people aged 16-30 who are studying or training in a built environment subject or field, or those that are already on a career path in the sector. The group will share ideas and make emerging expertise and views heard throughout industry. Members will meet regularly, feed into the CSIC future skills strategy and programmes and take part in engaging industry with new opportunities. CSIC is firmly committed to diversity and equality and aims to have a broad spectrum of forum members with different points of view and experiences from across the sector. For more information about applying to be a member of the Built Environment Future Leaders’ Forum, or chair or co-chair of the group, take a look at the application pack at: www.cs-ic.org/library/futureleaders-forum-application-pack/ The deadline for applications for this year’s group is 16 November 2020.

UK INDUSTRY NEWS VIKING AIR GLIDEVALE PROTECT’S NEW AIR & VAPOUR PERMEABLE ROOFING UNDERLAY

without additional ventilation, which is acceptable to the NHBC for a cold roof construction. The product is suitable for use in wind zones 1-4 at 345mm batten gauge to BS 5534, with no need to tape laps or use additional counter battens. When the membrane is installed at 310mm batten gauge or on sarking, it also meets wind zone 1-5 requirements, ensuring unrestricted use across the UK and Ireland. Viking Air forms an integral part of Glidevale Protect’s roofing membrane family, which includes LR vapour permeable and airtight options, impermeable HR underlays together with ventilation products and accessories, giving specifiers and contractors a single source solution, whatever their pitched roof challenges.

Building products manufacturer Glidevale Protect has launched Viking Air, an independently certified air and vapour permeable (LR) roofing underlay for cold and warm pitched roofs.

This next generation roofing underlay offers class-leading air and vapour permeability and strong wind uplift resistance. It also ensures a high level of airflow and ventilation is provided into the roof space, reducing condensation risk in line with BS 5250. The product can be used

For more details visit: protectmembranes.com/vikingair email: info@glidevaleprotect.com or call 0161 905 5700 quoting ‘Viking Air’. Follow our Glidevale Protect LinkedIn page for the latest news.

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UK INDUSTRY NEWS BEATTIE PASSIVE EXPANDS FACILITY

Leading Passivhaus design and construction company Beattie Passive has successfully expanded into a significantly larger facility to ramp up production of their signature Passivhaus standard modular homes for clients across the UK, creating 80+ new jobs in the process. Established in 2010, Beattie Passive was the first company in the UK to be awarded Passivhaus certification for a complete build system. To support this expansion, 50 new jobs have so far been created at a variety of levels, from apprentices to skilled carpenters and factory management and support roles. Work began immediately on the first wave of 150+ modular pods for multiple clients throughout the UK with many of these going to clients in Wales. The company will be looking to hire another 30-50 people throughout the remainder of 2020 as they increase production. Beattie Passive are passionate about skills development and training: therefore all employees undergo a rigorous training

programme to build the necessary skills to deliver Passivhaus standard housing. Beattie Passive are not only providing a positive impact on the local community through significant employment but are also sourcing materials and sub-contract suppliers for the modular homes from local supply chains wherever possible. This combined is leading to positive economic and social benefits for the local community. The factory will manufacture Beattie Passive’s Haus4 range from Haus4Studio’s, Haus4one and Haus4two through to one, two and three-bedroom volumetric apartments. The Haus4 range offers modular, relocatable homes that can meet the clients immediate housing requirements, whilst delivering both the exceptional performance of Passivhaus and the higher quality of a Beattie Passive build. Beattie Passive have seen a considerable increase in demand for their Haus4 range since the outbreak of COVID-19, due to the increasing pressure on Housing Association and councils to find housing solutions for the growing homelessness population.

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Managing Director, Ron Beattie said: “Following considerable time and investment in R&D we are delighted to have moved to a larger facility to start delivering our modular solution at scale. This is the first of a number of large scale Beattie Passive factories across the UK and we are excited for the opportunity to not only deliver high quality Passivhaus standard housing at scale but also for the employment, training and positive economic and social benefits this will bring to the local areas.” Cardiff Council Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities, Cllr Lynda Thorne, added: “Beattie Passive’s modular solutions provide a fast and effective response for our plans, including provision for a potential increase in family homelessness. The flexibility of this fully demountable system means they can be moved elsewhere in the future if required, enabling us to respond to changing housing need over time.” www.beattiepassive.com

USING THE HYBRID SYSTEM ENABLED ME TO MAKE A 15% SAP* IMPROVEMENT Tony Michael, Architect

HYBRID INSULATION - TOGETHER FOR THE FUTURE

HCONTROL HYBRID

HYBRIS

BOOST’R HYBRID

We know that making SAP improvements are high on your agenda. And we also understand how important minimal thickness and correct detailing are to you when it comes to insulation. The two haven’t always gone hand-in-hand. However a reduction in thermal bridging can be achieved by our Hybrid system, proving that savings can be made on the DER vs TER without compromising on space and accurate construction details. All Hybrid products can be used in walls and roofs, separately or together, to provide a high performance, total insulation system. They are certified to harmonised standards by accredited bodies, in a laboratory according to EN16012 and in real life according to ISO 9869. So you can confidently rely on their as-built performance.

Each Hybrid product combines both insulation and airtightness properties: •

HControl Hybrid, a thin multifoil insulation product with a built-in vapour control function and an unrivalled thermal performance.

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•

Boost’R Hybrid, a thin multifoil insulation product with a built-in breather membrane function and an exceptional thermal performance.

*as calculated over a standard house using Hybrid model junctions compared with default junction heat losses

To ﬁnd out more visit www.insulation-actis.com or call 01249 462888

UK INDUSTRY NEWS TAYLOR LANE COMPLETES LANDMARK SOMERSET DEVELOPMENT

Taylor Lane Timber Frame has supplied and erected its 140mm pre-insulated timber frame kits for the first phase of Acorn Property Group’s landmark development – Cubis Bruton in Somerset – comprising three and four-bedroom houses and two-storey apartment blocks. Devised by land artist Mark Merer, Cubis Bruton is striking and architecturally innovative. Combining sustainability and environmentally aware technology with compelling design, the properties offer flexible, future-proof living. Robin Squire, Regional Managing Director of Acorn’s Bristol Region said: “Where possible, Acorn strive to use timber frame across all our developments. We are aware of the environmental impact our industry has and try to design and build our schemes with sustainability very much at

the forefront of our minds in order to limit this impact. We take a fabric-first approach to our developments meaning we look to ensure the envelope of the building is as energy efficient as possible by opting for methods like timber frame construction.” Due to the demands and design complexity of Cubis Bruton, it is highly unlikely that this scheme could be achieved using traditional masonry construction. The Hereford-based timber frame specialist also supplied and installed Posi-Joists, roof trusses, and structural and architectural steel. The complete package was designed and manufactured in-house. The Taylor Lane 140mm pre-insulated timber frame plus a continuous layer of 50mm insulation on the inside face achieves an exceptional U-value of 0.15W/m2K. The added continuous layer prevents cold bridging and improves the U-value enormously. This level of thermal performance could not be achieved with

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masonry construction without a negative impact on room size and build costs. Cubis Bruton is unique, requiring complex design and product engineering. Large, open plan internal spaces with modern lines combine with a distinctive roofscape of geometric shapes, cantilevers and green roofs. The number of variations (up to three) per house type (x 11), added to the timber frame design challenge. While 80% of the properties featured flat roofs, several had sedum roofs. The weight of these affected the centre and size of the joists required. Taylor Lane utilised Posi-Joists as the engineered metal web joists can span further and bear additional load over standard timber joists whilst accommodating services. Cubis Bruton is shortlisted in the Private Housing Project of the Year at the Structural Timber Awards 2020. www.taylor-lane.co.uk

UK INDUSTRY NEWS BWF PARTNERS WITH NOCN

The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) has partnered with an Ofqual Regulated Awarding Organisation the National Open College Network (NOCN) to develop a two-day Fire Door Installation Awareness course.

NEW TIMBER KIT DIVISION FOR JR GROUP

One of Scotland’s largest building and construction firms, The JR Group, has launched a new timber kit division. DC Timber Systems has now been incorporated into the Group which already includes: JR Construction, JR Specialist Services, JR Scaffold Services and JR Commercial Property Services, in a major investment from the firm, to offer a more rounded service to clients.

Working together under the NOCN SiteRight brand, the partnership will enhance the availability of quality training, helping to drive-up standards across the construction industry when it comes to fire doors, specifically timber fire doors. By enhancing the knowledge and skills of on-site installers and those overseeing works, contractors can better manage compliance with fire safety standards and best practice. Fire Door Installation Awareness course materials and delivery have been developed by the BWF – the organisation’s first ever third-party assured course – and can only be delivered by NOCN Approved Centres, based on robust criteria. This ensures that training providers meet the highest standards set by the Awarding Organisation, the BWF and individual criteria for SiteRight courses. In addition, each trainer must also meet specific standards to demonstrate their competence, knowledge and skills regarding timber fire door installation. Helen Hewitt, CEO of the British Woodworking Federation said: “Through this unique partnership, with one of the

The new business will be operated from Palmermount Industrial Estate in Dundonald, Ayrshire and is expected to create 25 new, skilled jobs in the coming months. Heading up the new division is Managing Director, Ian Samson (pictured), who will drive the business forward to supply and erect timber frame across the country. “Despite the current climate, The JR Group is continuing to invest,” said Ian. “Expanding our business through the creation of a timber kit division is a pivotal step in driving our growth for the years ahead. Timber frame is widely regarded as one of the fastest-paced sectors in the UK. There is a real requirement for good, high quality, timber kit product, which can be delivered quickly and we are confident DC Timber Systems can meet this need. “DC Timber Systems will provide a key service for our construction arm, and by manufacturing the products ourselves, this will allow us to be more competitive and offer a better service to our partners. It will

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UK’s leading construction assessment and awarding organisations, individuals and installers who wish to build their awareness of fire doors across the UK will have access to a third-party quality assured and independently audited training network. This is a positive step forward towards helping achieve the Government’s aim to improve the fire safety of our buildings, and reflects the BWF’s commitment to improving education, awareness and standards when it comes to fire door safety.” On completion of the Fire Door Installation Awareness course, participants will achieve recognised certification for the assured course featuring the SiteRight, NOCN and BWF logos. The course also provides candidates with an opportunity to progress on to the achievement of the relevant National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) unit for the installation of fire doors. For Fire Door Installation Awareness course enquiries or to find an NOCN Approved Training Provider visit: www.bwf.org.uk/education

also give us greater control of our overall project program and should negate any delays on site. We strive to manufacture high quality, innovative kits, to customers old and new. Currently 83% of homes in Scotland are built using timber frame, compared to just 23% in England. Scotland is very much leading the way in this form of construction and we are delighted to extend our expertise into this area, bringing with it opportunities to grow our team.” DC Timber Systems aligns with JR Specialist Services, offering joinery services to JR Construction and the wider marketplace. The group currently carries more than 100 joiners who offer everything from timber kit erection to joinery finishing. The business operates throughout Scotland and Northern England working on behalf of a number of the UK’s leading housebuilders, registered social landlords and private clients. www.thejrgroup.co.uk

UK INDUSTRY NEWS WILL CAMPION IS AN AWARD FINALIST AT 25 YEARS OLD Campion Design has been shortlisted for the Custom/Self-Build Project of the Year at this year’s Structural Timber Awards, for its third built project – Orchard House. At the completion of Orchard House, Campion Design’s founder, Will Campion, was only 25 years old. At this young age, Campion has won awards and amassed global experience on projects in New York City, London, Cambridge, Hong Kong, Florida, California, Dubai, and Saudi Arabia. Campion founded and grew his practice while studying Architecture at the University of Bath and the University of Cambridge, with the vision to create sustainable luxury architecture. “Saving the planet doesn’t need to cost the Earth,” says Will Campion. With Campion’s innovative design for Orchard House, it only cost £1,000/sqm to build, including solar cells, air-source heat pump, rainwater harvester, and a heat recovery system. Orchard House also uses SIPs filled with insulation made

from rapeseed oil. Orchard House also boasts a beautiful invisible-fixing, board-and-batten cladding invented by Campion, which artistically interweaves the reclaimed brick of the ground floor with the larch cladding of the first floor. Embracing innovation is the key in adapting to this ever-evolving world.” Campion Design is a Certified Passive House Designer and is on the cutting edge in leveraging new techniques, technologies, and tools – such as parametric design, animation, and virtual reality. For more information Email: will@campiondesign.co.uk Follow: @campiondesign

UK INDUSTRY NEWS MERKINCH PRIMARY SCHOOL SAY ‘THANKS’ The Robertson Construction team behind the new Merkinch Primary School received a socially distanced ‘thank you’ from around 350 pupils and staff following the handover of the building. The new primary school, which was procured through Major Works – Scotland, part of the Scape National Construction framework for Highland Council, is the first primary school in the Highlands, and the largest school in Scotland, to be built using a cross laminated timber (CLT) frame. The extension to the original Merkinch Primary School building includes 14 new classrooms, ancillary teaching area, three-room nursery, nurture rooms, a four court games hall and an external multi-use games area. All of the works were carried out whilst the school remained operational from modular accommodation that occupied the former playing fields. Jillian Kean, Head Teacher of Merkinch Primary School, said: “We wanted to take

TIMBER BOOST FOR MAIDENHEAD OFFICE PARK

Hutchison Kivotos Architects recently completed a two-storey cross laminated timber (CLT) and glulam office extension at No. 2 Maidenhead Office Park. The extension connects the two existing wings of a 38,000sq ft office building by creating a welcoming, contemporary ‘heart space’ opening out to a generous landscaped courtyard.

this opportunity, ahead of the October holidays, to come together and thank each individual who has been involved in the extension of our primary school. The coronavirus pandemic has meant our young people, and the rest of our school community, have had to adjust to changes within our school when we returned from lockdown. The extension will not only provide us with extra space and facilities but will help us to focus on our school’s future during these challenging times.” The school has been designed with the well-being of pupils and staff at its core. The original school has served the local community in Inverness for over a century and the new state-of-the art facilities are a welcome addition to the community. Frank Reid, Regional Managing Director, Robertson Construction, said: “We are proud to have completed the largest CLT frame school in Scotland, much of the The new building was designed, supplied and installed by mass timber and hybrid specialist G-frame Structures with the two-storey block formed of PEFC-certified HEXAPLI CLT with glulam columns and beams from French supplier Piveteaubois. “Prior to COVID-19 there was a strong market at Maidenhead Office Park and creating a unique, contemporary and flexible office space was vital to meet the growing demand,” says James Johnson, Director at Hutchison Kivotos. “Particularly from young, tech and start-up companies. We felt that a contemporary timber structure would achieve this.” It sits on a simple, four-sided ‘doughnut’ shaped plan with accommodation housed in a three-sided horseshoe shaped section. The original layout of the building was awkward, requiring people wanting to cross from east to west wing to pass through the reception area: the new structure squares this off, linking the two original wings of the

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timber has been left exposed and this has been proven to positively impact the learning environment. Merkinch is setting a benchmark for sustainable education facilities. It was an honour for the team to receive this personal thank you today from some of the pupils and staff and we look forward to continuing our work in phase 2 as we refurbish the existing facility into new dining and community facilities.” Councillor John Finlayson, Chair of Education Committee, Highland Council, added: “It is very exciting to see the fantastic new school building. This will open up opportunities for the school, its staff and its young people, who it is great to see, come out yesterday to show their appreciation for the hard work which has gone into its construction.” www.robertson.co.uk

building and improving the connection to the courtyard. The use of timber has helped to overcome the constraints of building within an internal courtyard, allowing prefabricated elements to be lifted into the middle of the ‘doughnut’ using a mobile crane placed at the front of the building. “It’s really good to see the growing awareness in the commercial lettings sector of the benefits of building with wood,” said Lee Murphy, Managing Director at G-frame Structures. “For developers of commercial portfolios, it is a savvy investment to transform an average office building of standard décor into a desirable and healthy workspace by the addition of a mass timber extension. No. 2 is now an environment to which incoming tenants are likely to respond well and settle in for a long time in the certain knowledge that the building meets their social distancing needs and is adaptable and future-proofed.” www.g-frame.co.uk

Abraham Darby Academy, architects BDP; photography: David Barbour

Last year, the Committee on Climate Change stated: “Using wood in construction to displace high-carbon materials such as cement and steel is one of the most effective ways to use limited biomass resources to mitigate climate change.” Using timber contributes to reducing CO2 levels in the atmosphere in three ways: • by carbon capture in the growing forest carbon sink • by carbon capture in the increasing wood product carbon store • by substitution for CO2-intensive materials. Wood CO2ts less is a new campaign for the timber industry. Using wood from sustainably-managed forests instead of other materials is a good way to reduce CO2 emissions. For more information visit woodforgood.com/CO2 Wood CO2ts less is a collective mark of Wood for Good Ltd.

SWEDISH WOOD

BUILD BACK BETTER WITH TIMBER

a major Facebook advertising presence. Member companies are also adopting the campaign, sign posting Wood CO2ts less on their websites, using the videos and adapting the social media posts to suit their own brands and customers.

Net zero carbon targets are putting material use in the spotlight across many parts of the construction sector. The Wood CO2ts less campaign is putting the spotlight on using more timber to help the UK to ‘build back better’. When the Wood CO2ts less campaign began it development, Swedish Wood worked together with Wood for Good and with the UK timber industry, with two things in mind: how building with wood can contribute to slowing global heating through carbon capture and how the timber industry’s offsite capability can contribute to solving the housing problem. This means helping government meet two of its targets – to reach net zero carbon by 2050 and, as enshrined in its 2019 manifesto, to ‘continue our progress towards our target of 300,000 homes a year by the mid-2020s’. The importance of encouraging timber construction has been recognised by government advisors including Chris Stark, Head of the Committee on

Climate Change, who said: “Displacing cement, brick and steel with wood means more than double the carbon savings in buildings overall. With encouragement from the government, we could triple the amount of carbon locked into buildings – one of the simplest steps we can take to help meet the UK’s climate goals.” The Wood CO2ts less campaign has been widely adopted by the UK timber industry since its launch in the summer of 2020, using the collective mark registered by Wood for Good, and the fact-based promotional items, such as advertisements and social media posts, all taking respondents to the main information site woodforgood.com/CO2 with its wealth of data, publications, videos and reports. Advertisements, co-funded and cobranded with Wood for Good, Confor, the Timber Trade Federation (TTF) and the Structural Timber Association (STA), have appeared in the Daily Telegraph, plus many other papers and magazines, along with digital promotion in the architects’ and local authority press and

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This is just the beginning. The campaign will continue throughout 2021 and beyond, co-ordinated by Wood for Good with the support of Swedish Wood and the UK industry timber trade associations. It will be backed by new research, supported by new promotional materials and used by ever more timber companies to continue to make the case for the recommendation made in the executive summary of the Committee on Climate Change’s 2019 report, ‘UK Housing; Fit for the Future?’ that government: “Develop new policies to support a substantial increase in the use of wood in construction.” Recently the world has been turned upside down by COVID-19, pushing the immediacy of global warming into the background. But the campaign reminds us we all have a responsibility to the future to turn the talk back to how we rebuild the country through a new Green Economy into a reality. Metaphorically and literally we need to build back better – in wood. There’s no shortage of sustainably produced timber and there’s no shortage of architects producing inspirational, low-energy, low-carbon, healthy buildings in wood. For more information, videos and reports on how to build back and build better with wood visit: www.woodforgood.com/CO2 IMAGES: 01. Stirling Award-winning timber frame housing by architects Mikhail Riches. Courtesy Tim Crocker 02. The Wood CO2ts less campaign has been hugely successful so far in promoting the benefits of using more timber with many of the timber sector’s leading trade associations supporting

VOX POPS Our regular column explores some views and opinion from industry insiders, covering a few topical issues affecting the timber sector in a challenging business and construction environment.

Max Bishop

Nick Boulton

Technical Sales Manager, MEDITE SMARTPLY

Chief Executive, Trussed Rafter Association (TRA)

www.mdfosb.com

www.tra.org.uk

Q: 2020 has been a year like no other for all of us. From your perspective, how has the timber sector dealt with the pressures on supply and demand in the uncertain market?

MB: 2020 has been a challenging year for the timber industry with external influences affecting the supply of material into the market, which in turn has put pressure on the demand within the UK for specific products. Across the sectors, there has been consolidation of core business to allow for the continued supply to meet the level of demand in the market. In these uncertain times, relationships within the timber industry within all sectors has been one of the key drivers currently helping the industry through 2020.

NB: It’s been a roller coaster! The abortive Brexit dates meant we ended 2019 with some of the highest stock levels ever and buyers were able to instantly spot purchase anything they needed. But then the COVID-19 crisis generated unprecedented global demand for structural timber, so as we end 2020, it is now about helping buyers plan for the long term to ensure they will have the supplies they need for 2021. The TRA is going to help its members facilitate greater liaison with suppliers – communication is key.

Q: The understanding and adoption of digital tools is historically low across the timber industry? Is that an honest assessment?

MB: There has been a historically slow uptake of utilising digital tools within the construction industry generally, but even more so in the timber industry. However, due to the current pandemic situation we all find ourselves in, the industry has been receptive to the adoption of new digital technology as a smarter way of working. At MEDITE SMARTPLY we are no exception, so we continue to develop our digital presence and tools with the launch of a new website and digital offerings such as RIBAapproved CPDs and other online tutorials.

NB: Certainly not in the trussed rafter sector which as a group has always been very proactive in adopting the latest digital technologies. That’s why we were able to switch digital design from office to home in such a short space of time. The sooner the housing sector adopts BIM protocols rather than passing round photocopies and PDF drawings, the more effective our sector can become. I think we only have to look at the product information online to see how TRA manufacturers are providing 3D renderings for the roofs and floors they are designing. TRA structural metalwork members also provide models and videos for the installation of their products.

Q: Does the timber industry invest enough time and money in research and development and providing innovative new products and solutions?

MB: The timber industry invests significant time and money into R&D, which has been shown time and time again over the years. However, continued investment into R&D for the timber industry is hugely important as the construction industry looks to move toward more sustainable construction materials. MEDITE SMARTPLY continue to invest heavily into R&D as innovation is a core strategic pillar of our business. This is demonstrated by further development and investment into MEDITE TRICOYA EXTREME, with a £60million investment in a new acetylation facility in Hull, and our recent launch of the industry leading SMARTPLY MAX FR B product range.

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NB: The issue with the UK housing sector is its primary focus is on minimising build cost rather than ensuring consistent quality. This severely limits the potential returns for manufacturers from new innovations and R&D. There are some incredibly innovative companies in our sector, and I think the growth in digital technologies supporting offsite manufacture will help them flourish, but it’s a slow process. The timber sector is really good at developing collaborative solutions bringing together the many SMEs we have in the sector to offer our customers effective generic solutions. Great examples from TRA would be the generic spandrel and gable panel solutions, which we have developed, and the fire testing project to deliver evidenced fire protection solutions for floors and ceilings.

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www.kopperspc.eu | kpc.uk.sales@koppers.eu |+44 (0)1628 486644 ™ Protim Solignum Limited trading as Koppers Performance Chemicals. Koppers is a registered Trademark of Koppers Delaware, Inc. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information contained in this document, Protim Solignum Limited gives no undertaking to that eect and no responsibility can be accepted for reliance on this information. Information will be updated when the need arises. Please ensure you have an up to date copy. All products are produced by independently owned and operated wood processing facilities. All other trademarks are trademarks of their respective owners. Koppers Performance Chemicals, Protim Solignum Limited, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1LS. Visit: www.kopperspc.eu, Email: kpc@koppers.eu, Call: +44 (0)1628 486644, Fax: +44 (0)1628 476757. Registered in England 3037845. © Copyright 2020.

VOX POPS

David Connacher

Prof. Robert Hairstans

Marketing Manager, Norbord Europe Ltd

Centre for Offsite Construction and Innovative Structures, Edinburgh Napier University

www.norbord.co.uk

www.napier.ac.uk Q: 2020 has been a year like no other for all of us. From your perspective, how has the timber sector dealt with the pressures on supply and demand in the uncertain market?

Q: 2020 has been a year like no other for all of us. From your perspective, how has the timber sector dealt with the pressures on supply and demand in the uncertain market?

DC: It’s well-documented that new remote ways of working have meant that all progressive, flexible companies have had to adapt and operate new practices in order to succeed and ‘deliver’ in today’s new world. Norbord is communicative and ‘modern’ in its communications, as are our customers. This shared methodology is helping us and our customers to move forward so that our supply and demand chains are understood and accommodated. It certainly feels our customer base is easier to access and so responses are quicker to realise in terms of supply and demand expectations. As customers now order on a click-and-collect basis in the main, so the online presence is crucial.

RH: The sector has ultimately shown itself to be resilient. However, one thing that has been drawn into further focus is a need for more value add to homegrown timber. Given the need for enhanced levels of circularity in construction, we need to maximise the value add in the first instance and embrace design for manufacture and assembly, whilst planning for future disassembly/re-utilisation. This will ensure a more robust supply chain and result in enhanced levels of carbon capture. The circumstances the pandemic has presented is an opportunity to re-set the dial and ensure the sector is part of robust and sustainable recovery.

Q: The understanding and adoption of digital tools is historically low across the timber industry? Is that an honest assessment? DC: I believe the construction industry as a whole has probably not been as quick as other industries to adopt the technology that we have, as consumers, all enjoyed: but I believe it is catching up. More and more timber specialists are using clickand-collect ordering services or delivery in certain periods of time. We have grown used to quick deliveries from the large internet and high-street retailers and the expectation is the same within the construction industry. The mobile device is becoming the primary screen and the go-to device to order materials, check manufacturer websites like our own for fixing instructions, product information. This will continue to rise with younger entrants coming into the industry that have grown up with technology as part of their daily lives. Q: Does the timber industry invest enough time and money in research and development and providing innovative new products and solutions? DC: The timber industry in the UK is fortunate to be supported by a wide-ranging group of many different, aligned organisations and associations – TTF, STA, BRE – to name a few. These groups have risen to the challenges faced by the construction industry and are constantly encouraging innovation and co-operation in product development so that Building Regulations and the Government’s ever-changing green agenda is adhered to. So yes, we are investing in new systems for the most ancient of materials! Both product manufacturers and housebuilders need to continue to be pioneering – and they are. Norbord has continued in this vein with the development of the only UK-produced OSB with zero-added formaldehyde.

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Q: The understanding and adoption of digital tools is historically low across the timber industry? Is that an honest assessment? RH: If we think of the whole supply chain from forest floor to built asset there is an opportunity to create a digital thread that runs all the way through it. This provides the opportunity to present the whole life value proposition of the asset via digital enrichment, ultimately influencing the business model and procurement approaches. Along this digital thread there are interfaces as information is past securely from one user to the next. The process is more collaborative and helps to defragment the sector to one which has the evidence base to demonstrate it is the most sustainable way of providing construction solutions. Are we there yet? No. But that is the opportunity that presents itself if the sector truly embraces industry 4.0. Q: Does the timber industry invest enough time and money in research and development and providing innovative new products and solutions? RH: Investment in R&D in many respects needs to be rethought. We need improved levels of collaboration with closer connection between academia and industry. In this respect improvements to the educational model can be made such that student talent is better aligned with the industry needs and there is a mentorship approach, such that student projects (both individual and group work) are linked with industry. This would allow case studies to be utilised within learning activities with students undertaking analysis for value return to the sector to underpin the development of novel solutions with fresh thinking. There would be a need for upfront investment to make this work but it would create an improved educational model and deliver accelerated value return.

VOX POPS

John Mellor

Luke Roberts

Senior Product Manager, Glidevale Protect

Managing Director, Donaldson Timber Engineering (DTE)

www.glidevale.com

Q: 2020 has been a year like no other for all of us. From your perspective, how has the timber sector dealt with the pressures on supply and demand in the uncertain market?

JM: From a building product manufacturer perspective working with the timber construction industry, we have noticed a major spike in demand since the return from lockdown. This is particularly evident in newbuild housebuilding where there is also currently a big drive from our customers to play catch-up for lost time on-site. This market pressure is disrupting the balance and equilibrium between supply and demand and there is a clear exponential demand for certain materials. The timber sector has dealt with these issues as well as can be expected. The key is for all suppliers to work closely with their customer base in order to manage the situation as best as possible.

LR: Let’s hope that 2020 is a one off. However, some of the issues it has generated are commonplace in the timber sector. Supply and demand imbalances are a very common occurrence, so it’s something we’re used to dealing with. At DTE, we spend a lot of time establishing strong and robust relationships with our customers and suppliers, which allows us to deliver manufacturing and supply chain excellence to our customers. We had a structured plan for our return after lockdown, which enabled us to open branches and allowed us to deal with the increasing demands since June. Operational changes were implemented to ensure our capacity was not overly affected by the COVID-19 guidelines.

Q: The understanding and adoption of digital tools is historically low across the timber industry? Is that an honest assessment?

JM: It is fair to say that the take up of digital tools over the years has been hit and miss across many sectors, not just the timber industry. As a result of the pandemic, what has been evident is the wide number of organisations who are now actively engaging with digital communication channels as part of their strategy to adapt to the new way of working. Like most companies, Glidevale Protect is continually evolving our digital strategy to meet the ever-changing needs of our customer segments and we have seen increased demand for online meetings with our clients.

LR: I think if you are honest with yourself you can realise your own deficiencies, and this is undoubtably an area where the timber industry has lagged behind other industries. As the world continues to strive forward, the timber industry will have to become more agile and a digital strategy is the smart move. One thing that 2020 has shown everyone is that the use of modern forms of technology can help improve connectivity and reduce travel at the same time.

Q: Does the timber industry invest enough time and money in research and development and providing innovative new products and solutions?

JM: As the growth of MMC and offsite construction continues apace and the benefits over traditional construction become more widely known, there has been some real investment by both our peers in the industry and also our customers, in order to deliver innovation and continuous improvements. At Glidevale Protect, we have a Fabric First approach with our products offering added value to the built structure and we invest significant amounts of time and budget into new product innovations. We are acutely aware of the drive for more energy efficient structures as specifications become even more onerous and Building Regulations are updated. Recent product developments include Glidevale Protect’s new air and vapourpermeable roofing underlay Viking Air, which provides ventilation to the roofspace to help manage condensation risk.

LR: Over the last 10 years I do believe that there has been a large investment in research and development. Considering timber is the oldest building material in the world it still amazes me that we continue to develop new products and solutions for the building industry. I think this is one of the main reasons why many of us stay in this industry for such a long time. Within the specific area of engineered timber that DTE operates, new products are difficult. The key for us is to be innovative in how we use new technology to deliver the best customer experience in our sector. to the roofspace to help manage condensation risk. www.donaldsontimberengineering.co.uk

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EDUCATION

FABRIC FIRST SUPERSTRUCTURE

01 Stoneham Park Academy is a brand new £5.6million, 1.5 form entry school, designed by Hampshire County Council’s (HCC) award-winning Property Services team, which successfully used a compact and energy-efficient design through modern methods of construction.

Constructed by Morgan Sindall Construction, the project used the innovative Streif advanced timber panel system and was delivered to meet HCC’s design standards – providing a sustainable school which is fit for future expansion into a two form entry school for 420 pupils. The primary school was built to serve North Stoneham Park, a new housing development of 1,100 homes to the south of Eastleigh. Awarded through the Southern Construction Framework (SCF) and sponsored by the University of Winchester Academy Trust, the school will provide 315 school places for pupils aged four to 11 within the Hampshire area. Hampshire County Council Model Stoneham Park Primary Academy is

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the pilot project for the HCC model. Conceived as a lean, compact and energy efficient two-storey form the building is modest in scale and futureproofed for expansion. The Hampshire model can be scaled ranging from 1.5 form entry to three form entry and due to its compact form and footprint can be adapted to suit a variety of sites and contexts as well as the client’s brief and budget. The compact design is based on ‘fabric first’ principles combined with a mechanical ventilation heat recovery (MVHR) system to improve thermal comfort, indoor air quality (IAQ) and dramatically reduce energy consumption. An options appraisal for the superstructure concluded that an offsite timber frame was the preferred solution for the project.

EDUCATION

02 Why the Streif system? Streif was the preferred option for the delivery of the complete building superstructure. This was primarily based on the key benefits of an offsite factory manufactured panelised system that had the potential for replication on future projects. In particular, the integration of factory-installed components including triple glazed windows/doors, internal and external insulation, sheathing, membranes and conduits was a major factor in terms of quality control and programme benefits on-site. With production undertaken at their factory in Weinsheim, Germany, the pre-construction team visited the factory to gather information on the production process and a live construction site to witness works in progress. The team also undertook a robust review of key details in collaboration with HCCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in-house technical services team. This included the review of on-site sample details and processes to ensure quality control measures were maintained. Benefits of the Streif system The innovative Streif advanced timber panel system is a robust and highly sustainable framed timber construction that is based on low carbon/energy use and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;fabric-firstâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; design principles. Its numerous benefits include improved quality and running costs, significant savings on the programme and preliminaries, while minimising the risk of co-ordination errors when working internally. Despite the impact of weather, Brexit and COVID-19 pandemic restrictions the project was completed on-time, on-budget and to a very high standard.

On-time manufacture and delivery allowed the building to rapidly achieve the key milestone of watertightness; enabling access to all working areas of the building and allowing internal finishing trades to complete works in multiple areas at the same time in safe and dry working conditions. Internal partitions were robust, dimensionally stable, and easy to finish with a skim coat of plaster. Floor and ceiling finishes were also able to rapidly proceed in dry conditions. Externally, the cavity brickwork facades could safely proceed unhindered by other trades due to the factory-installed cavity insulation and membranes on the external face of the panels. Manufactured in controlled factory conditions, high quality standards were met right from the production stage where the Streif quality management is audited to ISO 9001 standards. All panels and cassettes were thoroughly checked for quality before being loaded on to specially designed lorries and distributed to site. The system provides a very well-insulated and airtight building, improving thermal performance and energy consumption which ultimately improve running costs. With pre-manufactured panels made offsite, this dramatically reduced the number of operatives on-site, thereby reducing construction phase health and safety risks, as well as reducing waste on-site. Methodology of the Streif system Early co-ordination of the M&E with the Streif timber frame system was vital to the successful delivery of Stoneham Park, as all panels arrived as fully-sealed components with first fix wire ways including electrical conduits and cable ways for the wall panels as well as

04 cut-outs for sockets and switches. This was pinned on the collaborative working and coordination with Morgan Sindall Construction, HCC, Streif and the M&E sub-contractors through M&E co-ordination, to ensure the fully made-up panels were correct on delivery. Scaffold was erected entirely before the Streif system arrived on-site and was placed in the correct position using a third-board bracket, which was then removed to enable brickwork construction. The panels and cassettes were delivered from Germany, arriving on-site in strict order and safely craned into position and fixed, providing a quick weathertight building. All wall panels were placed into position using a theodolite station to gain mm accuracy. All elements were manufactured with a high degree of dimensional accuracy, with other elements incorporated such as windows/doors, minimising co-ordination errors when working internally. www.morgansindall.com www.streif.co.uk IMAGES: 01-04. Stoneham Park Academy used the innovative Streif advanced timber panel system and provided a sustainable school fit for future expansion

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2020 STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS

GET READY TO CELEBRATE systems and enabling manufacturers to produce high-specification buildings. Many examples of this you will find showcased at the Structural Timber Awards, where organisations across the UK are taking timber to extraordinary new levels of quality.

With a delayed ceremony due to take place to applaud the winners from this year, we highlight all those shortlisted from the 2020 entries. Another record number of projects gave the judges a tough task in choosing the timber industry’s best of design, construction and engineering. With 16 categories, nearly 160 entries and over 100 companies shortlisted, the Structural Timber Awards have grown in popularity and stature. Now in their sixth year and taking place against the backdrop of COVID-19, the Awards ceremony is still planned to take place to celebrate the great, the good and the simply outstanding. The judging panel spent many hours assessing the projects, products and people entered for this year’s Awards.

Creating a shortlist for each category is never easy and with many exceptional entries submitted, it demonstrates the architectural strengths, engineering capabilities and versatility of this renewable and natural material. It also goes to prove how much talent and competitive spirit there is across the timber industry. Timber is wonderfully adaptable and well-suited to a range of construction projects across all sectors and the Awards work hard to celebrate the diverse ways that timber contributes to the UK built environment. As the UK housebuilding crisis reveals, the pressure to deliver higher numbers of quality homes is unrelenting – but the growing wider acceptance and understanding of offsite manufacturing techniques and the need to adopt more sustainable ways of living, mean that timber is the perfect material to resolve many construction and well-being problems. As the UK strives to reach its 2030 and 2050 net zero targets, timber will play a critical role. Many answers to the problems surrounding sustainability and wider circular economy can be found in the wider use of timber with the lowest embodied carbon of any mainstream construction material. Allied to this, advances in digital design is consistently improving the quality and performance of timber

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Timber’s benefits stretch far beyond structural use. The Structural Timber Awards will showcase many examples of architects and building designers taking inspiration from the natural world. Timber is now widely accepted to deliver ‘wellness’ for building occupants in the shape of cleaner, quieter and natural surroundings. Exposure to timber and its natural biophilic properties can help reduce blood pressure and stress levels and create a better living and working environment for building occupants – hugely important in the healthcare and education sectors – and now more important than ever before to all of society. The Structural Timber Awards is a celebration of innovation, best practice and expertise in timber technology. Over the next few pages you can see the 2020 shortlist in all its glory. Who will the eventual winners be? For more information on the event and to keep up to date with the latest developments visit: www.structuraltimberawards.co.uk Headline Sponsors:

Your assurance of responsibly sourced timber

Constructing the Future with Sustainable Timber Ask your suppliers for PEFC-certiﬁed wood products Choose PEFC

Discover more at: www.pefc.co.uk

Caring for our forests globally and locally

PEFC/16-01-01

PEFC – Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certiﬁcation

Photo: BAM/Trevor Palin

PEFC/16-01-01

2020 STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS

SOCIAL HOUSING PROJECT OF THE YEAR

PRIVATE HOUSING PROJECT OF THE YEAR

CUSTOM & SELF BUILD PROJECT OF THE YEAR

EDUCATION PROJECT OF THE YEAR

HEALTHCARE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR

RETAIL & LEISURE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

LOW ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR

PRODUCT INNOVATION AWARD

CLIENT OF THE YEAR

ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

04 ARCHITECT

CONTRACTOR

PROJECT

05 PIONEER

OF THE YEAR OF THE YEAR THE YEAR THE YEAR 01: CASTLEOAKOFOFFSITE MANUFACTURING &OFUNITED WELSH 02: IDEAL MODULAR HOMES & SHEDKM 03: LOWFIELD TIMBER FRAMES & K4 ARCHITECTS 04: MASSBESPOKE 05: ZED PODS

Private Housing Project of the Year PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR

L HOUSING OF THE YEAR

PRIVATE HOUSING PROJECT OF THE YEAR

CUSTOM & SELF BUILD PROJECT OF THE YEAR

EDUCATION PROJECT OF THE YEAR

THCARE OF THE YEAR

COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR

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LOW ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR

ODUCT TION AWARD

CLIENT OF THE YEAR

ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

HITECT HE YEAR

CATEGORY SPONSOR

Social Housing Project of the Year

CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

PROJECT OF THE YEAR

PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR

CATEGORY SPONSOR

INSTALLER OF THE YEAR

PIONEER OF THE YEAR

INSTALLER OF THE YEAR

01: ACME 02: ARCO2 ARCHITECTURE 03: CABU 04: CSK ARCHITECTS 05: ENGENUITI & TIGG + COLL ARCHITECTS 06: FOSTER + PARTNERS 07: G-FRAME STRUCTURES, FLETCHER CRANE ARCHITECTS + BINDERHOLZ 08: JW ARCHITECTS 09: KENNEDY TWADDLE 10: PENT DEVELOPMENTS 11: STOLON STUDIO & BACA 12: STORA ENSO, EURBAN & TIKARI WORKS 13: TAYLOR LANE TIMBER FRAME 14: WB TIMBER INNOVATIONS

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2020 STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS Custom & Self Build Project of the Year

RIVATE HOUSING OJECT OF THE YEAR

CUSTOM & SELF BUILD PROJECT OF THE YEAR

EDUCATION PROJECT OF THE YEAR

COMMERCIAL OJECT OF THE YEAR

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CLIENT OF THE YEAR

ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

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PROJECT OF THE YEAR

PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR

INSTALLER OF THE YEAR

01: ASHTON PORTER ARCHITECTS 02: BOUNCE ARCHITECTURE 03: BURD HAWARD ARCHITECTS 04: CAMPION DESIGN 05: FACIT HOMES 06: G-FRAME STRUCTURES, KSKA ARCHITECTS & STORA ENSO 07: KEBONY 08: KINGSPAN INSULATION 09: LODGICO 10: LOOSEHANGER OAK 11: PARAGON OAK 12: PAUL ARCHER DESIGN 13: THOMAS CARTER 14: TONKIN LIU

Education Project of the Year

& SELF BUILD OF THE YEAR

EDUCATION PROJECT OF THE YEAR

& LEISURE OF THE YEAR

LOW ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR

INEER HE YEAR

OJECT HE YEAR

PIONEER OF THE YEAR

CATEGORY SPONSOR

01: ARCHITYPE 02: BURRELL FOLEY FISCHER 03: DAVID MORLEY ARCHITECTS 04: ENGENUITI 05: HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 06: INNOVARÉ SYSTEMS 07: INNOVARÉ SYSTEMS 08: KIER CONSTRUCTION, EURBAN & FRANK SHAW ASSOCIATES 09: SCOTT BROWNRIGG 10: WILKINSONEYRE PIONEER OF THE YEAR

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2020 STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS PRIVATE HOUSING PROJECT OF THE YEAR

SOCIAL HOUSING PROJECT OF THE YEAR

CUSTOM & SELF BUILD PROJECT OF THE YEAR

EDUCATION PROJECT OF THE YEAR

AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP

Healthcare Project of the Year HEALTHCARE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR

RETAIL & LEISURE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

PRODUCT INNOVATION AWARD

CLIENT OF THE YEAR

ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

01: CARPENTER OAK SOCIAL HOUSING PROJECT OF THE YEAR

PRIVATE HOUSING

CUSTOM & SELF BUILD CONTRACTOR PROJECT OF THE YEAR

ARCHITECT PROJECT OF THE YEAR OF THE YEAR

OF THE YEAR

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02: HEATHERWICK STUDIO EDUCATION PROJECT OF THEPROJECT YEAR

OF THE YEAR

03: STORA ENSO, HAVERSTOCK ARCHITECTS & EURBAN

PIONEER OF THE YEAR

Commercial Project of the Year HEALTHCARE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

COMMERCIAL PROJECT OF THE YEAR

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PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR

PRODUCT INNOVATION AWARD

ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR

MERCIAL OF THE YEAR

TRACTOR HE YEAR

INSTALLER OF THE YEAR

ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

E HOUSING OF THE YEAR

LIENT HE YEAR

CLIENT OF THE YEAR

AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP

CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

PROJECT OF THE YEAR

PIONEER OF THE YEAR

PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR

INSTALLER OF THE YEAR

01: ARCHITECTURE UNKNOWN 02: B&K STRUCTURES 03: CABU 04: CONSTRUCTIONAL TIMBER 05: ECKERSLEY O’CALLAGHAN 06: ELLIOTT WOOD 07: EURBAN, WEBB YATES ENGINEERS & DMFK ARCHITECTS 08: G-FRAME STRUCTURES, HK ARCHITECTS, PIVETEAUBOIS & HEYNE TILLETT STEEL 09: HEYNE TILLETT STEEL & STUDIO RHE 10: STORA ENSO, CALFORDSEADEN ARCHITECTS, B&K STRUCTURES & NIBLOCK BUILDING CONTRACTORS CUSTOM & SELF BUILD PROJECT OF THE YEAR

EDUCATION PROJECT OF THE YEAR

Retail & Leisure Project of the Year RETAIL & LEISURE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP

LOW ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR

ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

01: B&K STRUCTURES 02: CONSTRUCTIONAL TIMBER & MCLAUGHLIN & HARVEY CONSTRUCTION 04: STORA ENSO, ANTA ARCHITECTS & EURBAN 05: STUDIO LIME PIONEER OF THE YEAR

PROJECT OF THE YEAR

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04 03: HEWITT STUDIOS

BUILD YEAR

URE YEAR

2020 STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS

EDUCATION PROJECT OF THE YEAR

Low Energy Project of the Year LOW ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR

HOUSING OF THE YEAR

CUSTOM & SELF BUILD PROJECT OF THE YEAR

EDUCATION PROJECT OF THE YEAR

MERCIAL ROF THE YEAR

RETAIL & LEISURE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

LOW ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR

ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

PIONEER OF THE YEAR

OR MANAGER AR

01: HESS TIMBER

ENT E YEAR

RACTOR HE YEAR

CATEGORY SPONSOR

02: IDEAL MODULAR HOMES & SHEDKM

03: WB TIMBER INNOVATIONS

04: ZED PODS

05 05: ZÜBLIN TIMBER

Project of the Year PROJECT OF THE YEAR

PIONEER OF THE YEAR

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SOCIAL HOUSING PROJECT OF THE YEAR

AVAILABLE FOR SPONSORSHIP

CUSTOM & SELF BUILD PROJECT OF THE YEAR

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INSTALLER OF THE YEAR

PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR HEALTHCARE

INSTALLER OF THE YEAR

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LOW ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR

01: BENEDICT O’LOONEY ARCHITECTS 02: HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 03: HESS TIMBER, HODDER & PARTNERS & BAM CONSTRUCTION 04: SIMPSON & BROWN

PRODUCT INNOVATION AWARD

CLIENT OF THE YEAR

CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

CATEGORY SPONSOR

PROJECT OF THE YEAR

PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR

PIONEER OF THE YEAR

INSTALLER OF THE YEAR

01: ARCHITECTURE UNKNOWN 02: BENNETTS ASSOCIATES 03: HODDER AND PARTNERS, BAM CONSTRUCTION & HESS TIMBER

05: ZÜBLIN TIMBER

ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

Architect of the Year ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR

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04: MEB DESIGN

05: PENT DEVELOPMENTS

RESTRAINT ALL TIED UP

GABLE RESTRAINT BRACKET The go-to solution for the design and installation of timber gable wall panels to masonry wall NHBC construction as accepted by the NHBC.

Patent Pending

Get your technical guidance pack TODAY! Tel: 01592 777570, option 4

Email: cullentechnical@itwcp.com

Brands of

www.itwcp-offsite.co.uk

MERCIAL OF THE YEAR

IENT HE YEAR

RACTOR HE YEAR

USING HE YEAR

CARE HE YEAR

UCT AWARD

AL HOUSING CT OF THE YEAR

ECT EAR

2020 STRUCTURAL TIMBER AWARDS RETAIL & LEISURE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

Engineer of the Year

CATEGORY SPONSOR

ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

PIONEER OF THE YEAR

PROJECT OF THE YEAR

PRIVATE HOUSING PROJECT OF THE YEAR

CUSTOM & SELF BUILD PROJECT OF THE YEAR

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01 01: ARUP

02: CORBETT & TASKER

PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR COMMERCIAL

03: ELLIOTT WOOD

04: ENGENUITI & TIGG + COLL ARCHITECTS

05: HEYNE TILLETT STEEL

INSTALLER OF THE YEAR

RETAIL & LEISURE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

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Client of the Year CLIENT OF THE YEAR

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PRODUCT VATION AWARD

CLIENT OF THE YEAR

RCHITECT F THE YEAR

LOW ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR

01: DYSON

RETAIL & LEISURE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

LOW ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR

02: MAGGIEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

03: ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY 04: THE OFFICE GROUP

PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR ENGINEER

05: VALLEYS KIDS

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OF THE YEAR

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01: BAM CONSTRUCTION 02: EE SMITH CONTRACTS 03: GALLIFORD TRY 04: KIER CONSTRUCTION, EURBAN & FRANK SHAW ASSOCIATES 05: MORGAN SINDALL

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Proud to sponsor the Structural Timber Awards 2020

The UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s No 1 producer of engineered wood panels

PROJECT OF THE YEAR

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Installer of the Year

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INSTALLER OF THE YEAR

SELF BUILD F THE YEAR

EDUCATION PROJECT OF THE YEAR

LEISURE F THE YEAR

LOW ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR

01: B&K STRUCTURES 02: G-FRAME STRUCTURES, HK ARCHITECTS, PIVETEAUBOIS & HEYNE TILLETT STEEL 03: PLOTFORM 04: THOMAS CARTER 05: WIEHAG

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Pioneer of the Year PIONEER OF THE YEAR

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01: HAMPSHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL 02: IDEAL MODULAR HOMES 05: STEWART MILNE TIMBER SYTEMS

HEALTHCARE PROJECT OF THE YEAR

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03: MASSBESPOKE

04: RAMBOLL

LOW ENERGY PROJECT OF THE YEAR

Product Innovation Award PRODUCT INNOVATION AWARD

CLIENT OF THE YEAR

ENGINEER OF THE YEAR

ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR

CONTRACTOR OF THE YEAR

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01: CABU 02: IDEAL MODULAR HOMES 03: ON THE LEVEL 04: STORA ENSO, RAMBOLL UK, SCOTT BROWNRIGG, JLL & GARDINER & THEOBALD PROJECT OR CONSTRUCTION MANAGER OF THE YEAR

INSTALLER OF THE YEAR

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05: TENMAT

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS Occasionally there is an event that grabs the attention of the construction industry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Structural Timber Awards is one such event. With the heightened interest in offsite manufacture and construction, it is easy to see why these Awards are experiencing exponential growth year on year. However, the Structural Timber Awards would not be possible without the financial contributions and support of our fantastic sponsors â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so we would like to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU to those companies.

2020 The Structural Timber Awards provide one of the most effective platforms to showcase architectural gems and product innovations. Aimed at promoting excellence in the use of structural timber technologies these Awards recognise best practice and the accomplishments of ground-breaking projects.

EVENT DATE If you would like more information on the sponsorship opportunities available at the 2020 Structural Timber Awards, please do not hesitate to contact the team on 01743 290001 07.10.2020 or email stuart.maunder@radar-communications.co.uk

Book your sponsorship package now call: 01743 290001

METSÄ WOOD

STILL STUNNING THE MACALLAN DISTILLERY

01 An integral part of the undulating wooden roof structure at The Macallan Distillery is Kerto LVL (laminated veneer lumber). Fast, light and sustainable, it helped deliver a hugely successful award-winning project that has drawn praise from construction and whisky enthusiasts from all over the world. In 2018 The Macallan Distillery got a new home – a stunning contemporary building combining an undulating wooden roof with glass and steel with many elements fully-prefabricated. The Macallan Distillery in Craigellachie, Speyside, Scotland is a stunning sight. From far above on the hillside,

you see five domes, resting under a living meadow roof. As you get closer, the unique undulating wooden roof structure is revealed. LVL is an essential part of the wooden roof structure, as Kerto LVL Q-panels and S-beams are used as cheeks on both sides of the glulam beams and Q-panels in the roof decks. Kerto LVL S-beams can also be found outside on the service road. The construction of the Macallan Distillery took only six months. It was a carefully co-ordinated operation with the roof containing some 3,600 beams and 2,500 roof panels. The building is an immersive experience: three still houses and a mash house with a common roof and fully glazed wall. This reflects the wishes of The Macallan Distillery – a worldrenowned brand – whose single malt whisky production dates back to 1824. The goal was a contemporary facility, celebrating style, authenticity and honesty.

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Architectural principles “The Macallan Distillery wanted to have a production facility whose capacity could be added to if required. That led us to start the work from the idea of a production module,” says Toby Jeavons, Project Architect at Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners. “Enthusiasts can see how whisky is produced, because the machinery can be viewed from the fully-glazed immersive experience area. The architecture elevates the beautiful copper stills into something special. “We wanted to celebrate the honesty of the materials rather than hide the roof structure with a ceiling. Wood is a nice counterpoint to the engineered, faceted roof structure, which consists of flat cassette panels and straight beams. Kerto LVL S-beams and Q-panels are an integral part of the structure of each beam, because they contribute to the overall dimensions. Every beam has the same dimension. We also achieve a contemporary aesthetic by using Kerto LVL, which has an omni-directional surface.”

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03 Workability The timber parts were CNC-machined and assembled at the Wiehag factory in Austria. The Kerto Q-panels and S-beams had high non-standard requirements. “All Q-panels and S-beams arrived on time, and their quality and specifications were fully met,” says Johannes Rebhahn, Sales Director, International Timber Projects at Wiehag, who was responsible for the engineered wooden roof construction. “The Q-panels, for example, had to be very thin, with a sanded surface. It was easy to add Kerto LVL to both sides of the glulam beams, because LVL has great workability while being a very strong and rigid material. It doesn’t warp or twist over time. “Kerto LVL is a very good engineered wood material, because you can trust the material dimensions. In general, offsite construction is a great way to save construction time. When prefabrication such as cutting is done in the factory and connections have been designed to be simple, the easier, safer and more cost-effective life on-site is.” Load-bearing structure The Macallan Distillery features a wooden roof supported by a steel structure. The roof consists of a wooden waffle structure, which is triangular with 3 x 3m diagonals. The centre lines of the wood beams meet the centre lines of the supporting steel tubes. As the steel tubes are smaller than the glulam beams, they ‘run’ through the glulam beams.

04 The arrangement of the glulam beams, which feature integrated Kerto LVL cheeks on both sides, was designed to balance the load path to the steel frame. The primary members – hybrid beams strengthened with steel are interlaced with secondary members – regular beams. The timber grid and roof panels carry the heavy green roof loadings and all wind and snow loads down to the concrete foundation. Connections Steel plates, hangers, connectors and screws are used in the timber-to-timber connections, which contributes to the stiffness and stability. Hangers give strength to connections with hightension forces, and the shear forces are tackled with steel connectors. “The connections are beautifully hidden behind the beams, which feature Kerto LVL cheeks on both sides,” adds Rebhahn, who also says that the co-operation with Metsä Wood in the construction project went very well. “They understood our requirements and have been very flexible when we’ve asked for higher or non-standard specifications.” Fire safety The Macallan Distillery is built according to Scottish fire safety regulations. The glazed wall between the distillery and Visitor Experience had to achieve two hours’ fire resistance, including the relevant timber roof area above the glazed wall. Visitor experience The Macallan Distillery has been open for whisky enthusiasts for two years now, and it has become a highly popular destination. The guests are very fond of the experience. “We have received humbling praise for our brand new home,” says George McKenzie, Head of UK Engineering at Edrington, the parent company of The Macallan.

“One of the key elements is our roof design comprising of 380,000 individual components. It is always pleasing to see people’s reactions as they gaze up at the timber design when they enter the building.” The living meadow on top of the roof is also in great condition. Any surface water from the roof is managed via a sustainable urban drainage system – a natural approach to drainage – helping to prevent water pollution and flooding. Johannes Rebhahn has experienced the same positivity with his clients who have visited the building with him and he is sure that The Macallan Distillery and other current timber construction projects will inspire more to build with timber. “The warm and cosy feeling combined with big dimensions has taken many by surprise. It is a very intense experience. Wood is a great way to construct carbon neutral buildings.” LOCATION: Easter Elchies, Craigellachie, Banffshire AB38 9RX COMPLETED: 2018 ARCHITECT: Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS: Arup MAIN CONTRACTOR: Robertson CLIENT: The Macallan Distillers/ Edrington Group PRODUCTS USED: Kerto LVL is used in the prefabricated cheeks on both sides of the glulam beams and roof decks

www.metsawood.com

IMAGES: 01. Courtesy Mark Power Magnum Photos 02. Courtesy SchubertStarmühler Verlag 03. Courtesy WIEHAG 04. Courtesy Mark Power Magnum Photos

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VOLUMETRIC TIMBER

DELIVERING SWEDISH STYLE AND SUSTAINABILITY

Although BoKlok may be an unfamiliar brand name in the UK, its joint owners Skanska and IKEA are familiar faces to most of us. As Graeme Culliton, BoKlok Managing Director and Country Manager told us, things are about to change. BoKlok has huge experience in developing and manufacturing homes in the Nordic region and to date has developed around 12,000 homes in Sweden, Finland and Norway. The homebuilding joint venture sees homes built primarily from timber, using a smart, industrialised factory process. The homes are completed offsite in a safe and dry precision environment enabling high-quality and predictable costs.

UK and the opportunity to make a difference,” says Graeme. “We have been delivering this model in the Nordics for 20 years. Our experience in delivering modular homes is derived from the fact we own our own factory but also manufacture homes with manufacturing partners. The need for modern methods of construction (MMC) and the support from central and local government was also key to knowing this was the right time for this.”

It is now aiming to set new customer satisfaction standards in the UK market. What drew it to the UK and what can Swedish expertise deliver to the UK housing market? “Simply put the need for low cost home ownership in the

How does Skanska and IKEA work together to create this housing model and the wide and potentially endless customer interior requirements? “IKEA understand how people live, great design and industrialisation,”

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says Graeme. “Skanska understand construction, logistics and development. Together a powerful combination. Both organisations have high ambitions and achievements in sustainability. Together all this drives the way we think about our customer, the homes we design but also delivering a low cost home. All our homes have an IKEA kitchen as standard, but customers can also work on their own interior design with IKEA, if they choose. This is part of our sales process.” The system is a volumetric timber unit with most of the timber sourced from Sweden and Finland. BoKlok has worked closely with NHBC and BOPAS (Building Offsite Property Assurance

VOLUMETRIC TIMBER

03 Scheme) to ensure compliance with UK regulations and requirements. A panellised system was never considered. “It’s what we know and we know it works,” says Graeme. To help deliver part of its first product offering in the UK, BoKlok has appointed technology-driven modular housing manufacturer TopHat on a fiveyear contract. This will see TopHat work with BoKlok to manufacture two and three-bedroom houses. “We are delighted to be working with TopHat, says Graeme. “We share the same ambition to bring innovation and sustainability to the UK housing market, which means attractive and good quality homes for people on average incomes. Our two companies complement one another well, with TopHat bringing its high levels of automated manufacturing expertise. As we venture into the UK, we believe that TopHat will contribute to our long-term vision and success, to provide quality, low-cost homes, using sustainable materials and modern methods of construction.” TopHat is aiming to revolutionise the digital construction industry, from housebuilding to commercial property. Founded in 2016 and starting production in early 2018 at its stateof-the-art manufacturing facility in South Derbyshire, this offers a huge opportunity to boost the profile of volumetric timber homes. “We wanted a UK supplier and because timber is at the heart of our business, as the most sustainable building product, they were

at the top of the list. Once we engaged with TopHat we could see that they shared our values and had invested significantly in their manufacturing facility. It was the most advanced that we saw in the UK by some way. We also met with their investors and could see a commitment for the long term.” “Modular housebuilding will be central to addressing the UK’s housing crisis by providing modern, desirable and connected housing far more quickly than traditional methods,” says Kate Davies, Non-Executive Director of TopHat. “TopHat is in a strong position to lead the sector. Not only does its technology and manufacturing platform enable TopHat to produce homes of outstanding quality at low cost, but also its approach to design reshapes perceptions of what modular homes look like and feel like to live in.” The first BoKlok community will be in Bristol at Airport Road. Bristol City Council, who owns the site, has committed to pursuing the development of this partnership with BoKlok as part of the five-year Bristol Housing Festival which is trialling innovative offsite housing solutions across the city. Jez Sweetland, Bristol Housing Festival’s Project Director, said: “The festival is all about re-imagining new and better ways to live in our cities. BoKlok provide creative solutions with a fantastic track record of creating great homes and strong communities, we are really thrilled to be working with them.”

The proposed development will consist of 173 homes – 77 two-storey houses and 96 flats built under the BoKlok brand. “BoKlok have been working with Bristol Council and the Housing Festival for the past two years, says Graeme. “They are fantastic partners to work with and we share the vision for the city in providing great sustainable homes for people that really need it. This made our decision to focus within the South West a very easy one, when we planned the launch of the business. We expect to start work at Airport Rd in Bristol by the end of the year. First sales will be in Spring/Summer of 2021. We now have six sites across the south of the UK in various stages of development. “Broadly our homes will be delivered in half the time of traditional forms of construction. Our ambition is to bring zero carbon homes to UK a lot quicker than 30 years. Our building system and design makes a big step toward zero carbon, but we will move our focus to this once we have delivered our first developments and timber is an essential part of achieving our carbon targets.” www.boklok.co.uk www.tophat.io IMAGES: 01. Graeme Culliton, Managing Director and Country Manager, BoKlok 02-03. Planned developments will provide a range of housing options

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE HIGHLIGHTS

SILVER SERVICE productivity and performance across the board – using ‘fabric first’ principles to deliver better buildings. There has also been an admission, or at least an acceptance, at government level that offsite construction is a serious proposition and timber can benefit hugely from this. Mark Farmer’s ‘Modernise or Die’ report was commissioned and published at just the right moment in 2016 and focused minds across all levels of the built environment.

As we celebrate 25 editions of Structural Timber Magazine, we thought we would take a quick flick through some back issues and pick out some memorable moments from the many industry developments and projects we have featured. Since its first outing in October 2014, Structural Timber Magazine has seen the timber sector change shape and develop rapidly – especially with the boost in understanding of offsite manufacture and factory-based methods. However, the success of timber has always rested on its merits as the most sustainable of all mainstream construction materials. But with the growing climate emergency, needs of the circular economy and healthier buildings more vital than ever, timber delivers many benefits as only such a renewable, natural material can bring. Of course the huge growth in the use of engineered timber over the last decade in particular – especially cross laminated timber (CLT) and glulam – has seen architects and structural engineers take timber to exceptional new heights. Sometimes literally – which in itself has become a bone of contention in the wake of the Grenfell tragedy with

arguments still unresolved over the 18m mark. So the construction industry is full of vagaries that are often very hard to predict. A perfect example over the publication timeline of the magazine, was the promotion of the 2016 zero carbon homes targets – then unceremoniously scrapped alongside the respected Zero Carbon Hub by the David Cameron Government – to the present refocusing of those same requirements to achieve net zero emissions targets by 2050. The debate surrounding the dearth of housing provision across the UK has also underpinned much of the talk of more sustainable housing and communities All those 300,000 homes we are told are needed per annum, aren’t going to be delivered via the usual building routes and traditional construction methods. But its more about the increasing requirements of reliability, quality and better industry

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It is sometimes the Editor’s burden to decide what to include and what to leave out. Over 25 magazines we have attempted to provide a solid overview of the structural timber world in all its many systems and industry developments, with a range of opinions from across the timber supply chain. Outside of the timber bubble you can be easily forgiven for not quite understanding what makes the sector tick, so I hope over 25 issues that we have succeeded in bringing some of that into focus. Over the next few pages we have picked out some key features. This is not an exhaustive round-up of the huge amount of material the magazine has covered over the last six years! Certainly there have been so many stunning projects using timber that have been championed at the Structural Timber Awards – literally hundreds and hundreds of outstanding buildings – that we could write a book.

If you’d like to contribute to the magazine in any way in 2021 – an opinion column, industry feature, technical information, a great project or just a news story – please get in touch through the usual channels. Email:

info@structuraltimbermagazine.co.uk

www.ghanatimber.org +44 208 906 9560 Unit 4 Granard Business Centre, Buns Lane, Mill Hill, London NW7 2DQ

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE HIGHLIGHTS ISSUE 1 A New Beginning

ISSUE 2 Growing our Low Carbon Economy We featured a new report backed by the Timber Accord – the short-lived alliance of the UK’s timber trade associations. ‘Growing Our Low Carbon Economy’ was sent to policy makers at both national and local level to emphasise the critical role timber plays, suggesting 12 policy areas where the UK Government should focus their attention. David Hopkins, (then Executive Director of Wood for Good) explained: “Our aim with this report is to give policy makers a clear understanding of the benefits the timber supply chain brings to the environment, economy and society as a whole. It details key areas where timber can help the UK Government meet its own objectives in reducing carbon emissions, provide a source of sustainable jobs and economic growth, play a vital role in delivering tomorrow’s housing stock and sit at the centre of future health and well-being agendas.”

The then Chairman of the STA, Lawrence Young, reflected on a year of progress for the STA since its rebranding. After changing focus from the UK Timber Frame Association (UKTFA) to the Structural Timber Association (STA) it was the biggest rebrand in the Association’s history, gaining a host of new members and witnessing a significant upturn in the industry. The rebrand from the UKTFA at Timber Expo, September 2013 was carried out with the intention of creating a stronger voice for the timber frame and structural timber industry within the UK and recognised the fact that many members were working with and producing hybrid structural timber solutions, including glulam, cross laminated timber and structural insulated panels alongside timber frame. Much talk in our launch issue surrounded the shortage of housing stock across the UK and how to solve it. Some things have not changed.

ISSUE 3 NW Bicester: taking shape in 2015

As the UK’s first eco-town, many were watching the continued development of the vibrant community of North West Bicester and its sustainable and greener lifestyle journey. Timber played a major role in the housing scheme with Stewart Milne Timber Systems a key provider. It would seem that Garden Cities were well and truly back on the UK’s cultural agenda – originally designed to alleviate crowded city living in the 19th century, the current housing shortage has seen us go back to the future for inspiration. With work taking place between 2010-2017, the One Planet Community is now a 6,000-home extension to the market town of Bicester, with highly sustainable, true zerocarbon homes plus workplaces, schools, community facilities and many green space. The concept of 2016 zero carbon homes targets were still valid although were soon to be shelved before eventually being reanimated in a 2019 as net zero commitments.

ISSUE 4 The Death-Star Capsule Unit3Sixty was believed to be the first near complete offsite modular timber skatepark in the world, featuring Europe’s biggest indoor wooden bowl – David & Goliath – including the world’s first rideable free-standing timber hemisphere – The Death-Star Capsule. A second room included more street inspired shapes and a jump training area to complete the park. The creative design not only provided an incredible user experience but stands as a demonstration of what is possible using offsite engineered timber shapes in general. We also reported on the launch of the ‘new and inclusive’ Confederation of Timber Industries (CTI). The CTI vision – still current – is about: “Growing the supply chain and the market, nurturing the skills in education and the sustainability agenda. Wood needs to become the product of first choice. We can achieve this target together.” The CTI has worked hard at lobbying government especially through its Save Safe Structural Timber campaign.

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE HIGHLIGHTS ISSUE 5 National Structural Timber Specification The long-awaited new National Structural Timber Specification (NSTS) document was published. The NSTS marked a significant step forward for the timber industry in levelling the playing field against competing materials such as steel and concrete. Both the steel and concrete industries already have National Specification publications – in fact steel’s ‘black book’ is already into its fifth edition – but the timber industry has been slower in this area. The brainchild of TRADA: “The publication of the NSTS is not a small step forward but rather a giant leap.” We also reported on the Government’s axing of the long-established 2016 zero carbon homes policy. Julie Hirigoyen, Chief Executive of the UKGBC echoed many saying: “The speed and the stealth with which this administration has destroyed some of the long-term policies supporting the renewable and low carbon industries has been breath-taking.”

ISSUE 8 SMTS Witney

The UK’s leading timber homebuilder and systems provider needs little introduction. We took a tour of Stewart Milne Timber Systems (SMTS) Witney facility, just outside Oxford. As part of the Structural Timber Association’s event programme, visitors saw and heard more about their products and practices. At the heart of SMTS success has been its SIGMA system and in particular the SIGMA II closed timber panel. We saw how the twin concepts of a fabric first approach combined with offsite manufacture is proving an effective way in maximising energy efficiency and controlling build costs. The £10million Witney facility is one of the largest and most advanced timber frame operations in Europe and since its opening in 2003, the purpose-built manufacturing facility is producing approx. 225 housing kits per week or one house every 20-30 minutes.

ISSUE 10 New Dimensions in Timber Winner of the Pioneer Award at the Structural Timber Awards 2016, Arup has an enviable track record in timber. We heard from Andrew Lawrence, Associate Director and one of Arup’s timber specialists, who discussed why they are so committed to timber and his vision for the future of the industry. “Everyone talks about sustainability, but the fact is that very few clients will pay more for it, so we need to develop competitive timber solutions,” said Andrew. “The way to do that is to understand the economic drivers of the material and to design the project around timber from the start.” We also showed how the 104-home Cobalt Place – the world’s largest cross laminated timber (CLT) residential development – showcased exposed CLT walls and ceilings and was designed to create a blueprint for developing successful sustainable homes at scale.

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ISSUE 11 EGGER ‘s New T&G Line

EGGER opened up the doors of its Hexham plant to unveil the latest developments in its building products division and the multi-million investment in its new tongue and groove (T&G) panel processing line – one that produces over 6.5 million EGGER Advanced Structural Flooring panels every year. The new T&G panel processing and packaging line also included further processing facilities with a lamination line and the development of an onsite demonstration rig and testing area for its structural flooring products. “With technological advances in clean or renewable energy, construction materials and offsite building methodologies, the net zero benchmark for energy performance in buildings has become achievable.” We also heard from Neil Smith, CEO of Net Zero Buildings who outlined its Schoolhaus design – one of the UK’s most energy efficient school buildings using SIP technology – and run at a fraction of the cost of alternative materials.

TIMBER SYSTEMS DIVISION

STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE HIGHLIGHTS ISSUE 14 Saving Energy Saving Money

ISSUE 15 Warmth, Wellbeing & Wow Factor With a 98.5% BREEAM score – the highest design-stage score ever achieved by any major office development – the London HQ for US media giant Bloomberg contained much timber in its design and was hailed as the world’s most sustainable office building. Located in the heart of the City of London and designed by Foster + Partners, it was the first wholly-owned and designed Bloomberg building in the world, bringing Bloomberg’s 4,000 London-based employees under one roof for the first time. We also took a look inside The Oculus. The University of Warwick’s flagship building – the first on the campus to be dedicated purely to teaching and learning – reflected its green surroundings through the use of terracotta, sandstone and spectacular timber technology including glulam beams. The building was also the venue for one of the highly successful Solid Wood Solutions conferences and exhibitions.

Fabric First has long been the heartbeat of the timber sector. A Roundtable Event hosted by DuPont tackled what the timber sector can do better for the environment and building owners and occupiers. “Fabric First is what we talk about,” said DuPont’s Bradley Cameron. “What we often see is ‘Fabric Last’. Developers have built something then have to ‘wrap it up’ which causes problems and is an expensive thing to do, rather than getting it right in the first place. If you don’t get that right, then the amount of insulation you end up using doesn’t work like it should.” The potential of virtual reality and an augmented future in the construction industry could be endless. We spoke to one of the leading facilities in the UK helping manufacturers to become more competitive and attuned to advanced technologies and processes – the University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC).

ISSUE 16 Exploring Offsite Opportunities

When Chris Thompson, Managing Director of sustainable urban developers, Citu, realised that outdated construction methods would hold back his ambition to accelerate the transition to low carbon cities, he set out to revolutionise the way in which homes are designed and built in the UK. He spoke to us about the construction of the first Citu low carbon homes at the Climate Innovation District in Leeds’s South Bank. This marked a major milestone as the scheme was the largest ecologically pioneering district of this scale in the UK – providing healthier, smarter and better-connected cities. We also heard from Dominic Raab (then Minister for Housing) about the role that offsite manufacture can play in solving many of the UK’s housing problems. “For too long, productivity and innovation in construction have lagged behind other industries. Modern methods of construction (MMC) are a chance to change that.”

ISSUE 17 Healthy Living in Shropshire An innovative £2million timber frame Passivhaus social housing development, completed and delivered a super low-carbon scheme to residents and South Shropshire Housing Association. This mix of one, two and threebedroom homes was handed over at the landmark Callaughtons Ash, in Much Wenlock. The project comprised of two shared ownership and 10 homes for social rental. This highly sustainable development has been seen as an exemplar model for unlocking small green sites and improving the quality of family living in rural areas. With excess moisture within any building causing a variety of problems, Niall Crosson, Group Technical Manager at Ecological Building Systems and Michael Foerster, Engineer Head of Applications Technology at pro clima, discussed the ways to ensure that unforeseen moisture trapped during the construction phase can be released from the building envelope and avoid damage to timber over time.

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STRUCTURAL TIMBER MAGAZINE HIGHLIGHTS ISSUE 18 The Future is Made of Trees

ISSUE 19 Transformational Timber For over 30 years, Professor Alex de Rijke, Founding Director at dRMM Architects and one of the UK’s leading architectural practices, has been an outspoken advocate of engineered timber and outlined why it is so essential to contemporary building design, championing its: “Outstanding versatility, weight-tostrength performance, sustainability, speed and limitless expression. I will continue to (promote it…) in the UK and internationally, with the added imperative of the climate change crisis.” We also took a look inside the stunning, awardwinning Cambridge Mosque. Combining Islamic principles with European sensibilities, the mosque’s main features are its goldclad dome and the vast timber structure, which was designed and manufactured by Blumer-Lehmann AG in Gossau, Switzerland. This masterpiece of timber construction and engineering also incorporates solar energy generation and rainwater harvesting to create a fantastic overall sustainable and low energy space.

The magazine took a trip to Sweden. With over 51,000 members, Södra is Sweden’s largest forest-owner association with a business built on ‘value-generating’ relationships. A full tour of the timber supply chain from nursery and forest, to the loading of timber at the Port of Varo, revealed the many ways that the timber sector across Europe is thriving but also (as Brexit talks ground on…) totally interconnected. Announcements on legislation regarding banning the use of combustible materials in the external walls of high-rise residential buildings grabbed the building headlines. Anthony Thistleton, co-founder of leading architects Waugh Thistleton, told us that: “This should not impede the success of structural timber including cross laminated timber (CLT)… and a quiet revolution has been going on in building in the UK over the last few years that has the capacity to transform the delivery of new housing.” That revolution is inextricably tied up with the increased use of CLT.

ISSUE 20 Delivering Tomorrow’s Quality Today David Russell, Director at Carbon Futures, told us how offsite and timber construction can deliver far-reaching thermal improvements for new UK housing as the Committee on Climate Change asked if the UK’s housing was “fit for the future”. The report listed five key priorities for government action: performance and compliance, the skills gap, retrofitting existing homes, building new homes and financing and funding. All of which can be improved through the use of more wood. We also reported on the huge Ministry of Defence housing development taking place on Salisbury Plain using timber frame to house military personnel and their families returning from Germany. As the final phase neared completion, three new housing and community schemes – Bulford, Ludgershall and Larkhill – were being built and successfully using timber frame systems from Stewart Milne Timber System (SMTS) and Taylor Lane.

ISSUE 21 Hitting the Timber High Notes Multi-disciplinary engineering firm, Cundall, discussed the triumph of timber in musical education and how the award-winning King’s College School, Wimbledon’s state-ofthe-art new music school is an: “Achievement of client vision, innovative architecture and structural design.” Key to the project’s success was the integrated approach between the architect, engineers, the school and the wider project team. The Hopkins Architect’sdesigned music school is arranged over three floors and home to 200-seat concert hall. Volumetric modular timber was under the spotlight as Urban Splash announced a deal to bring Japan’s biggest housebuilder – Sekisui House – to the UK, helping the developer create more modular timber homes. As a wake-up call to many, on their arrival in the UK market: “Sekisui House were genuinely surprised that the UK industry was so out-dated and we could have a housing crisis.” Contact us if you want to contribute to future issues of ST Magazine email: gary.ramsay@structuraltimbermagazine.co.uk

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THE FUTURE IS FINNJOIST

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THE LAST WORD

DRIVING NET ZERO CONSTRUCTION We have the renewable resource, internationally recognised expertise, and technical capabilities required to be at the forefront of a new approach to delivering a sustainable built environment in response to the climate crisis.

01 Sam Hart, Innovation Manager at Construction Scotland Innovation Centre (CSIC), outlines why now is the time to sustainably manufacture the built environment. As the agendas around the embodiment of carbon, health and wellbeing, quality, standardisation and DfMA+D have become more prominent, so too have the benefits of mass timber. The wider industry is beginning to wake up to and understand the importance of sustainable building, and as consumers we too are more aware than ever of our environment, the choices we make and their impact on our planet. As the first country in the world to declare a climate emergency, Scotland must now become the global exemplar for climate change reduction.

Thankfully Governments are beginning to implement policies to address these issues, for example, the UK Government’s Construction 2025 Industrial Strategy, the Scottish Government’s Programme for Government, the Climate Change (Scotland) Bill, and the Scottish Construction Industry Recovery Plan. Industry needs to design and develop projects which deliver outputs and outcomes that directly align with the goals of these strategic policies. In 2017, the UK Government announced the “presumption in favour of offsite” for their five largest procuring departments. Admittedly this has taken longer than expected to implement, but it now appears to be gaining momentum, as seen through the latest round of framework announcements. We need to speed up the pace of adoption and alignment just as our counterparts in Europe have. In France earlier this year, the state announced that 50% of all publicly procured buildings must be constructed from timber or other natural materials by 2022. Managed responsibly, the natural capital of Scotland can underpin its prosperity and create a built environment which has a positive influence on the health and wellbeing of its occupants. Driven by innovation and continuous improvement, Scotland can be the home to a global exemplar for climate change reduction. By leveraging the outputs and outcomes from previous research, we can deliver the human capital and built assets necessary to form the fabric of a circular economy.

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Therefore, we must ensure the convergence of the renewable resource (forestry, woody biomass and naturally replenishable) and construction sectors, to enable a new model for the sustainable manufacture of the built environment. This new model will be capable of evolving to meet the needs of future generations, without impinging upon available resource, whilst offering a better quality of life aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It will create economic growth, provide jobs and create wealth in remote and rural communities. It will ensure a resilient post-Brexit construction sector that is less reliant on imported resource and correspondingly at the mercy of price fluctuations due to global supply and demand cycles. A Bio-Offsite manufacturing approach could reset and restructure the way our built environment is delivered in response to the declared climate emergency through a new collaborative partnership model. To achieve this, we will need to drive and accelerate the sustainable procurement and delivery of infrastructure, new housing developments and community assets. In Scotland, examples such as collaborations between CSIC, Scottish Enterprise and the Scottish Land Commission have been established to support the transformational change of vacant and derelict land using this new model approach. There is a formidable evidence base from previous project outputs and I personally believe we are getting closer to achieving something comparable around policy change in Scotland. This, coupled with the five capitals model and Bio-Offsite approach, has the potential to transform the way we manufacture the built environment for the better, ensuring we achieve our green recovery and net zero carbon aspirations. www.cs-ic.org/innovationcentre/

IMAGES: 01. Sam Hart, Innovation Manager, CSIC

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT OFFSITE CONSTRUCTION IN THE TIMBER SECTOR AND THE ASSOCIATED MANUFACTURING PROCESSES THEN CHOOSE FROM SOME OF THE PLATFORMS TAKING PLACE IN 2020/2021:

DATE

2020 EVENT

VENUE

WEBSITE

Structural Timber Awards

Online Event

www.structuraltimberawards.co.uk

The Structural Timber Awards event is the ideal opportunity for construction professionals to maximise industry exposure by demonstrating what separates them from their competitors. The winning organisations will be promoted to a national audience, giving entrants the opportunity to make their mark on this economically important market. 18 Nov

Tall Buildings Conference

Online Event

www.tallbuildingsconference.co.uk

Tall buildings present unique challenges in terms of both design and construction. Their sheer scale demands that particular attention is paid simultaneously to strategic and detailed issues. Back by popular demand - Tall Buildings Conference taking place on 18 November 2020 as a virtual event is intended to assist engineers in understanding the common challenges associated with transferring standard engineering principles and knowledge from low-rise structures to tall buildings.

DATE 02-04 Mar

2021 EVENT

VENUE

WEBSITE

Futurebuild

ExCeL, London

www.futurebuild.co.uk

Futurebuild is THE built environment event where leading brands can share innovations, from products, to processes and solutions, with over 27,000 industry influencers and shapers. Futurebuild 2021 will remain true to the roots of Ecobuild by standing out as the only event to have a higher purpose, to be a catalyst for change. 21-22 Sept

Offsite Expo

Ricoh Arena, Coventry

www.offsite-expo.co.uk

Taking place on 21 & 22 September, Offsite Expo brings together those who are driving change in the construction sector â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the event will play host to the leading UK and international offsite manufacturers and component suppliers showcasing a broad spectrum of panelised, volumetric modular solutions, pod and prefabricated MEP solutions, as well as the latest in Digital and BIM technology.

All event information and schedules correct at the time of going to print - please check relevant websites for latest details.

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Structural Timber Magazine - Issue 25 Autumn

Articles inside

SILVER SERVICE

FABRIC FIRST

STILL STUNNING