The Forestry Commission has become a major sponsor of the Wood Awards 2005, which is to feature a new Special Award for British Wood.
The awards, now open for entries, have also attracted sponsorship from Welsh heritage agency Cadw.
Event organiser Michael Buckley said sponsor numbers had reached 20, compared with 17 last year, with major backers including the American Hardwood Export Council, the Carpenters’ Company and wood. for good.
Mr Buckley described the Forestry Commission’s involvement as an “important step” for the awards, which recognise outstanding timber design and craftmanship in joinery and structures.
Entries will have to declare which country timber is sourced from, with the British Wood prize being awarded to the best use of British-grown timber from across the various award categories.
Main categories again include commercial and public access, private, structural and conservation/restoration, while additional prizes recognise small projects and innovation.
Projects must have been completed between May 21, 2004 and May 20 this year.
A shortlist will be announced and exhibited at 100% Detail at London’s Earl’s Court in September, with prizegiving taking place at Carpenters’ Hall in October.
Last year’s event attracted a record 232 entries and the Gold Award was won by Norwich Cathedral Visitors Centre, designed by Hopkins Architects.
