Byera Hadley research reports
Jonathan Donnelly / 2024
Timber Buildings Artistically Considered
Architectural Practice
Australia
This report looks beyond the technical and performative domains of cross laminated timber (CLT) construction to consider its aesthetic and architectural potentials.
CLT is a relatively new and untested material in Australia. Therefore, exemplar precedents have been studied in the United Kingdom, where CLT construction is far more entrenched and ubiquitous and is being used intelligently, experientially and creatively to great architectural affect.
The report outlines the properties and key benefits of CLT, before making an environmental case for CLT in response to the climate crisis. Chapters address critical contextual factors to the uptake of CLT and its potential for innovation, in the UK and Australia. Seven case studies span a variety of typologies and scales to reveal important lessons for policy and industry in Australia.
Each case study building is assessed in text, drawing and photographs through four lenses, moving from the macro of the building diagram, to a consideration of the broader architectural and construction approaches, before honing in on the micro detail of the crafted joint.
The key lessons derived have the potential to influence architectural practice and culture in Australia, and to steer the architectural use of CLT to new heights.
