Aug 21

Crafted in Wood: The Wood Awards 2023 Exhibition and its Collaborative Spirit

Embracing the beauty of timber: The Wood Awards 2023 Exhibition, in Partnership with Material Matters and the London Design Festival.

Wood, a material both timeless and versatile, has been a cornerstone of human craftsmanship for centuries. From intricate carvings to contemporary furniture designs, wood has always held a special place in the world of design and architecture. The Wood Awards, an esteemed recognition of exceptional woodcraft, continues to celebrate the beauty, innovation, and sustainability that wood brings to our lives. As we eagerly anticipate the upcoming exhibition of the shortlisted projects for 2023, in partnership with Material Matters and as a part of the renowned London Design Festival, it’s a perfect time to delve into the significance of this prestigious award.

The Wood Awards: Honouring Craftsmanship and Creativity

The Wood Awards is an annual competition that honours excellence in design, craftsmanship, and innovation in wood. Established in 1971, the awards have consistently recognized exceptional works ranging from bespoke furniture and intricate carvings to architectural marvels that push the boundaries of what wood can achieve. The awards stand as a testament to the enduring allure of this natural material and its ability to blend tradition with modernity.

Celebrating the Shortlisted Projects: The 2023 Exhibition

The anticipation is building as the shortlisted projects for the 2023 Wood Awards are set to be unveiled in an inspiring exhibition. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to witness the creativity, artistry, and ingenuity that designers, architects, and makers pour into their wood-based creations. The projects on display are not only testaments to human skill but also serve as reminders of the sustainability and environmental friendliness that wood brings to the table.

The exhibition will be held at Gallery@Oxo from Wednesday 20 – Saturday 23 September 2023. 

Partnering with Material Matters: Elevating Woodcraft to New Heights

In 2022, the Wood Awards forged a special partnership with Material Matters, a renowned platform that explores the relationship between design, materials, and the environment. This collaboration continues for its second year and amplifies the importance of understanding the ecological impact of our creative choices. By bringing together these two influential platforms, the partnership aims to ignite conversations about responsible material use and sustainability in the design world.

A Part of the London Design Festival: Showcasing Excellence on a Grand Stage

The Wood Awards’ alignment with the London Design Festival further elevates its significance on the design stage. The London Design Festival, a major event in the design calendar, brings together creative minds from around the world to celebrate innovation and design in various forms. The Wood Awards’ presence within this festival amplifies its reach and influence, allowing a wider audience to appreciate the intricate beauty and thoughtful craftsmanship that wood offers.

The Wood Awards: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

In a world where design constantly evolves, the Wood Awards remain steadfast in celebrating the intrinsic beauty and enduring qualities of wood. From bespoke woodworks that pay homage to tradition to contemporary installations that push the boundaries of imagination, the awards continue to showcase the versatile and dynamic nature of wood as a creative medium.

As we eagerly await the unveiling of the shortlisted projects in the 2023 Wood Awards exhibition, in collaboration with Material Matters and within the context of the London Design Festival, we are reminded of the profound impact that wood has on our lives, our environment, and our design sensibilities. This celebration of woodcraft not only honours the talented individuals behind these projects but also serves as a source of inspiration for future generations of designers, architects, and craftsmen who seek to harness the beauty and potential of wood in their creations.

The Wood Awards 2023 shortlisted projects will be announced at the start of September.

As a not-for-profit competition, the Wood Awards can only happen with collaborative industry sponsorship. A huge thank you for continued support from: Carpenters CompanyAmerican Hardwood Export Council and Timber Development UK.