According to the Plantation Pine Framing Campaign , the intention of the Awards from the outset has been to develop a timber design ethos amongst built environment professionals – to encourage outstanding and innovative use of timber in a range of applications.

Since its inception in 2000, the Australian Timber Design Awards has experienced tremendous growth; the number of entries having trebled over 6 years. The Australian Timber Design Awards takes entries from across the states. Professions, builders, engineers, architects and designers all compete. There is also a special category for students and those 30 and under. So whilst the focus is on one material, the entries and entrants remain truly diverse, and are a real reflection of what is happening across the built environment professions.

One of the most appealing aspects of this competition is the range of categories on offer and the opportunity for recognition across such a broad design spectrum: Residential Class 1 (new home and renovations), Residential Class 2 (apartments and resorts), Public and Commercial Buildings, Structural, Interior featuring Wood Veneer, Exterior and a range of special categories exist. This collection of categories showcases timber’s versatility in design. In recent years there has been a particular focus on environmental commitment and designs, which contribute towards an environmentally sustainable future.

Each year the Awards Presentation Night is held in a different location; last year Old Customs House, Brisbane played host to the awards, whilst the previous year it was held in Melbourne. This year the Awards return to Sydney, and are to be held on November 2 2006 in the Ballroom of the Four Points Hotel by Sheraton, Australia’s largest Contemporary hotel. This stylish hotel boasts some truly unique architectural features such as the Dundee Arms, one of Australia’s oldest pubs. Even part of the hotel itself is heritage listed. This sandstone building, which fronts Sussex Street and forms part of the lower ground foyer was built in 1850. When the hotel and road were built the building was deconstructed and the bricks individually numbered. Now the building forms a spectacular backdrop to the atrium where contemporary and historical architecture meet.

If you have completed an outstanding building or structure in the last 3 years, with a significant timber component you are eligible to enter the Australian Timber Design Awards. Entries will be received until 5pm on August 31, and there is a 20% discount for all completed entry forms (with payment) received before June 30 2006.

Prices:

•     open entry $121.00

•     30 years and under $82.50

•     Student $44.00