Event date: February 10, 2025
As the construction industry faces growing environmental and economic challenges, timber-based building systems are emerging as a transformative solution. The WoodSolutions Timber Futures Seminar brought together industry leaders, architects, designers, and engineering students to explore how prefabricated timber can drive sustainability, efficiency, and innovation in the built environment. Held at the Carrillo Gantner Theatre in Melbourne, the event featured expert insights, engaging discussions, and a vision for a timber-driven future.
Exploring the Future of Timber in Construction
The seminar featured a lineup of renowned speakers who highlighted how timber is revolutionizing construction. Each expert provided unique perspectives on the role of engineered wood, prefabrication, and system-based design in creating more economically viable and environmentally responsible buildings.
- Dr. Duncan Maxwell (Monash University) opened the discussion by addressing the importance of building systems and product platforms in modern construction. His insights highlighted how adopting standardized, prefabricated timber elements can streamline building processes, reduce waste, and enhance quality control.
- Dr. Richard Nero (The University of Melbourne) shared his expertise on Post & Plate Timber Building Systems, a construction method that combines structural efficiency with design flexibility. This innovative approach allows architects and engineers to push the boundaries of timber applications in both residential and commercial projects.
- Jas Johnston (Candour) took the audience through an architect’s journey into system-based construction. Johnston discussed the challenges and opportunities of integrating timber into architectural practice, emphasizing how collaboration and innovation are crucial for widespread industry adoption.
- The keynote speaker, Andrew Waugh (Waugh & Thistleton), delivered a powerful talk on why timber is a game-changer for sustainable buildings. Drawing from real-world projects, Waugh illustrated how mass timber construction is not just an environmental solution but also a cost-effective and scalable approach for the future of urban development.
The event concluded with a dynamic Q&A session, moderated by Karl-Heinz Weiss (WoodSolutions), where attendees had the opportunity to dive deeper into the technical, regulatory, and practical aspects of timber construction. Thought-provoking discussions centered on how prefabrication can address housing shortages, reduce embodied carbon, and enhance design efficiency.
A Step Toward a Timber-Driven Future
The Timber Futures Seminar reinforced a clear message: timber isn’t just an alternative—it’s a necessity for a more sustainable built environment. With rising pressures to decarbonize construction, prefabricated timber offers a scalable, high-performance, and eco-friendly solution that aligns with both industry and environmental goals.
A huge thank you to WoodSolutions and the incredible speakers who shared their insights, as well as the students and professionals who participated in the discussions. As innovation in timber construction continues to gain momentum, events like this play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of architects and engineers.
