WoodSolutions is organising a special case study-focussed seminar featuring the winning projects at the 2023 Australian Timber Design Awards, all presented by their creators.

Our highly anticipated Melbourne forum will showcase exceptional timber structures highlighted at the 2023 Australian Timber Design Awards (ATDA). This exclusive 'case study' style event delves into the intricacies of multi-residential, commercial, educational, and government hub developments across Australia.

Join us to explore the remarkable craftsmanship and innovation behind these distinguished architectural achievements.

The forum begins with the stunning Sydney Opera House Concert Hall renewal, which was honoured with both the Excellence in Interior Fit out Public Building and the overall 2023 Timber Design Award. Director of ARM Architecture, Andrew Hayne, will discuss the amazing acoustic and architectural transformation of this heritage listed space, accomplished through a marriage of digital design and offsite manufacturing, and magnificent sculptured wood surfaces.

Next up, attendees will dive into Boola Katitjin at Murdoch University, the 2023 People's Choice Award winner that exemplifies a harmonious integration of cultural reverence, sustainability, and innovative timber use. Nikeesh Prasad, Structural Engineer at Aurecon, will delve into the intricacies of this remarkable project and how it creatively employs hardwoods and softwoods in both structural and architectural aspects, crafting a distinctive learning environment for students.

The next presentation will cover Eternity Life Apartments, which is a paradigm of sustainable urban living – a socially inclusive building that is 71% carbon neutral. k20 Architecture Director, Theodore Kerlidis, will discuss this spectacular natural and environmental sanctuary. Made from Simple Laminated Timber (SLT) and clad in sustainably sourced hardwood timber, it resides respectfully within its natural surrounds connecting building and environment.

Attendees will also hear from Architect and Designer, Melanie Beynon, from the Elsternwick House project, which seamlessly marries Edwardian charm with a harmonious timber-rich modern extension. Beynon will discuss her Excellence in Timber Design – Interior Fitout - Residential award project, which features a warm and robust material palette of natural stone and timber veneer joinery, and her philosophy of designing holistic and integrative spaces for wellness.

Michael Miles, Senior Design Manager at ICON will present on the design and construction of the benchmark Bendigo GovHub project. This development features an innovative exposed timber structural frame, chosen for its environmental, construction, and healthy workplace benefits. The mass structural timber systems used assisted in addressing a unique set of challenges due to the complex geometries of the building design.

The forum rounds off with a presentation on the Barker College Maths and Student Hub, which provides a harmonious blend of design innovation and ecological consciousness, aligning functionality with sustainability and aesthetic brilliance. Kieran Hayes, Senior Technical Engineer at XLam, will present the key themes of the architectural and engineering design approach, as well as covering the important supply and dFMA processes for a cost-efficient delivery.

Join us as esteemed professionals, including principal project architects, designers, engineers, builders, and suppliers take the stage to present in-depth case studies. Delve into the intricacies of exemplary projects, gaining insights not only into their finer details but also into the timber design processes and philosophies embraced by these leading design and building professionals.

This seminar provides a unique opportunity for you to learn from the expertise of these industry leaders, connect with colleagues, and accrue valuable CPD points. Elevate your understanding of timber design and be inspired by the innovative approaches shaping the future of architecture and construction.

Event details

Event: 2023 Australian Timber Design Award Winners – Presented by their Creators

Date and time: Thursday 14th March 2024, 12:30 PM - 5:00 PM AEDT

Location: Library at The Dock, 107 Victoria Harbour Promenade, Docklands, VIC

Register here.