Every year I look forward to seeing the entries for the Wood Awards. This unique award scheme, which recognises and champions the best designs in wood in the UK, is not only a great source of inspiration for my own work but provides a real overview of new developments in the timber industry.
Sustainability is one of the most significant items on the construction industry’s agenda. There have recently been some very exciting developments in eco homes, and I’m sure this will be a strong theme across this year’s entries. Last year’s shortlist featured many skilful and inspired restorations and I am hoping for many more entries of this type for our English Heritage judge this year. The Wood Awards allows me the privilege to see new techniques and innovations in wood first hand. This opportunity is unique and the judging process is an occasion that I look forward to in my diary.
I expect that as a Wood Awards judge I am biased, but I believe that this award scheme provides a platform for some of the best designs in timber in Britain today, no matter how big or small. These awards are also very timely, in that the important characteristics of wood as a living sustainable material are gaining in importance every day. This opinion has been bolstered with the Olympic Delivery Authority’s recent call for action from timber suppliers; wood is becoming the unrivalled material of choice.
The Wood Awards Call for Entries campaign is well under way and entries are open to absolutely everyone associated with a qualifying building or furniture project – from timber supplier to designer to architect. While the scheme attracts many of the leading names in the industry, entries are welcomed from smaller, bespoke companies.
The Awards represent a real public acknowledgement for skill and design in timber. Past entrants have achieved other major industry accolades, proving that The Wood Awards pave the way for wider industry recognition.
To enter, visit the new website at www.woodawards.com for the online entry system and terms and conditions of entry.
