More than 200 architects, building designers and industry leaders gathered at the National Maritime Museum at Darling Harbour in Sydney on September 18 for the 15th annual Australian Timber Design Awards.
Special guest Senator Richard Colbeck, federal Secretary for Agriculture, took part in the presentations with entrants and award winners announced by MC Rebecca Gilling, human resources adviser with Planet Ark.
The coveted Sanderson Memorial Trophy for Engineered Wood Excellence, sponsored by the Engineered Wood Products Association of Australasia, was presented to Grimshaw Architects (in collaboration with Billard Leece Partnership) for the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity next to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
Opened this year, the institute houses a coalition of infection and immunology experts to lead the fight against infectious human diseases.
Where possible, timber was adopted as an alternative to materials with high embodied energy. Laser-cut plywood panels and timber battens were used as feature ceilings in prominent areas throughout the building, while veneers were used in the auditorium wall and ceiling linings, foyer seating, fixed office joinery, furniture and feature wall linings.
Photo: Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture Senator Richard Colbeck (right) congratulates Tara Veldman of Billard Leece Architects, Sydney, and Gilbert Yeong, Grimshaw Architects, Melbourne, joint winners of the EWPAA Geoffery Sanderson Memorial Trophy.
