Great design changes our world, in ways that are subtle, dramatic, loud or quiet. This is shown clearly in the Wood Awards. Whether it’s a well-thought-out chair, a table, or a whole building, each of the shortlisted and winning projects is reshaping the way we move through the world and our experience of it – in ways both big and small.
Visitors to iconic locations, when they take a seat within the National Portrait Gallery, a walk through the history of makers in The Heal’s Building, study in the outdoor pavilions of Morden Lodge, open a book in Exeter College, explore the archipelagos of Scotland, or relax in a sauna in the High Weald National Landscape, will be enjoying an experience shaped by one of the projects on our shortlist in 2024.
The diversity of entries in design, location and, crucially, wood species continues to demonstrate the extraordinary creativity and craftsmanship to be found in the UK. It was particularly pleasing to see so many fantastic hardwood projects featured in this year’s Wood Awards, with species like black walnut from North America, sapele from Africa, and oak from Europe all embraced by designers.
As a natural material, climate change poses unique challenges for timber, with rising temperatures contributing to the spread of bark beetles and diseases that threaten some commercial species. One of the most important ways the timber supply chain can help overcome these challenges is through an embrace of a wider range of species and making sure we make the best use of all materials.
This comes with challenges. Unlike the synthetic and high-carbon materials that have been dominant during the past century, wood is not quite so ‘one-size-fits-all’. Whether it is cherry, elm, chestnut, maple, or beech, there is an incredible array of sustainably sourced species available to designers who want to shape unique, low-carbon, and aesthetically pleasing expressions within our built environment.
We would like to extend our sincere admiration and gratitude to all who choose to embrace and learn about wood. The incredible craftsmanship, dedication, and celebration of nature seen in all projects in this year’s Wood Awards speak volumes. We are very proud to continue to be the stewards of what we believe is the very best design competition to be found in the UK.
To each of the judges, who have collectively been to see every single shortlisted project in person – an incredible contribution of time and energy – we offer our thanks and heartfelt appreciation.
Finally, we would like to acknowledge the supporters of the Wood Awards, who make this event possible. These are The Carpenters’ Company, American Hardwood Export Council, and Timber Development UK (TDUK) – who organise the awards.
We hope all enjoy the Wood Awards 2024.
THE STEERING GROUP
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