TimberWorks in the UK is a new campaign promoting understanding and knowledge-sharing between architects, builders, specifiers and TTF member timber suppliers. Just recently this included a visit to a local forest to see timber selection and harvesting, and a visit to East Brothers’ extensive sawmill and hardwood stock operations at West Dean. Source: Timberbiz
Starting in a nearby forest, the group was able to watch the harvesting of Douglas Fir. East Brothers directors Richard Baker and Mark Gilbert then described the log conversion process and discussed the uses and structural grading of different species of locally-grown British timbers.
The group then moved on to East Brothers’ sawmill where they were shown the entire process from de-barking to kilning and planning, including East Brothers’ re-use of timber residues, for example in the company’s biomass boilers which provide heat to the kilns.
“The ability to interface directly with architects and specifiers on design matters including structural grading was valuable to both parties,” Gabby Wichary, Director East Brothers said.
“Enabling them to understand the complete process from log to finished building and joinery timber, and the no-waste system we operate, gives a new context to their future designs and aspirations.
“We’ve already had tremendously positive feedback and plans are underway for further visits by groups linked to our visitors.”
David Hopkins, Managing Director of the Timber Trade Federation said that face-to-face visits facilitated direct and business-relevant discussion of pivotal points in designing with wood.
“Our aim is to promote direct connections between those who specify wood and those who produce it,” Mr Hopkins said.
