WoodSolutions Timber Talks
Timber is becoming known as the building material of the 21st Century. It is strong – a high strength to weight ratio is recently being utilized with innovative developments; it is safe – being both durable and achieving fire ratings; it is sustainable –timber being the most viable option, acting like a carbon sink to reduce the effects of global warming. Research by Mcgraw and Hill suggests that innovation in the construction industry has been stagnant for over 50 years. Timber may provide the productivity gains similar to that of other industries, being suitable for prefabrication and allowing rapid construction cycle times. Timber Talks, provides the latest informative and entertaining information about the best design practices, latest innovations and interesting case studies from the world leading experts in timber design, specification and construction.
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The New Paradigm for Unlocking Productivity
09/19/2023
The New Paradigm for Unlocking Productivity
In this episode of Timber Talks, we have the privilege of speaking with Lisa Podesto, Senior Business Development Manager at Lendlease. Join us as we explore the concept of whole building componentization and its recent evolutions. We delve into the lessons learned from major players in the industry and discuss the barriers hindering progress. Lisa also provides insights into optimizing cost in construction and the potential cost efficiency of mass timber through comprehensive optimization strategies. Furthermore, we gain an overview of the evolving market in the US and gain Lisa's perspective on the future of the industry.
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Navigating Sustainability in Construction with Melissa Gaspari
09/05/2023
Navigating Sustainability in Construction with Melissa Gaspari
In this episode of Timber Talks, we are joined by Melissa Gaspari, an Associate at Andefena. Melissa shares valuable insights on the importance of Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) and how they are becoming more accessible through new tools and infrastructure. We delve into the role of Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) and discuss key considerations for timber buildings from a sustainability perspective. Melissa also addresses the tradeoff between operational energy and embodied carbon in building design. We explore the current trends in sustainability and conclude with Melissa's thoughts on the future of the construction industry in the next five years.
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Exploring Innovation and Vertical Integration with Katharina Lehmann, CEO of Blumer Lehmann
08/22/2023
Exploring Innovation and Vertical Integration with Katharina Lehmann, CEO of Blumer Lehmann
In this episode of Timber Talks, we sit down with Katharina Lehmann, CEO of Blumer Lehmann. Katharina shares her remarkable journey with the company and highlights her proudest achievements. We explore the unique positioning and contributions of Blumer Lehmann in the industry. Discover the benefits of vertical integration up the supply chain and how timber can address the biggest trends in modern buildings. Learn how digital design tools have revolutionized architectural processes and why understanding the entire supply chain is essential for designers. Lastly, Katharina imparts valuable advice for young professionals starting their careers.
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Evolving Role of the Structural Engineer
08/08/2023
Evolving Role of the Structural Engineer
In this episode of Timber Talks as we sit down with Ed Bond, Principal Structural Engineer at Robert Birds. Ed provides insights into the trends in embodied carbon-specific requests from clients and discusses how structural engineers can address these demands. We delve into the changing role of structural engineers and explore the concept of "Virtual Design and Construction." Ed explains the problems that can be solved with digital software and gives us a glimpse into the full digital design suite he is working on. We discuss the benefits and opportunities enabled by this suite. Finally, we wrap up the conversation by exploring Ed's perspective on the future of construction.
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Seismic Design of Timber Buildings
07/25/2023
Seismic Design of Timber Buildings
In this episode of "Timber Talks", we speak with Andrew Dunbar, a Senior Structural Engineer at Structex. Andrew is a leading expert in seismic design for timber buildings, and shares his insights on designing resilient and sustainable timber structures. During our conversation, Andrew discusses his approach to designing timber structures for seismic performance and sustainability, and provides advice for young professionals interested in pursuing a career in timber engineering. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of timber design, seismic performance, and sustainability.
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Council on Tall Buildings
07/11/2023
Council on Tall Buildings
In this episode of Timber Talks, Antony Wood, President of the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, shares his insights on using mass timber in tall building construction for sustainability and efficiency. We discuss the potential for embodied carbon reduction and the benefits of sustainably managed forests. Antony also describes innovative mass timber buildings and the possibility of off-site manufacturing. We explore the future of timber construction and emerging technologies for tall building design. Tune in for this informative discussion with one of the industry's leading experts!
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DFMA and Working with the Timber Supply Chain
06/27/2023
DFMA and Working with the Timber Supply Chain
In this episode of Timber Talks, we had the pleasure of interviewing Nathan Benbow, Engineering Manager, and Danny Watson, Structural Engineer at Australian Sustainable Hardwoods (ASH). Join us as we delve into ASH's approach to designing and constructing timber buildings, highlighting the importance of Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA) in their process. Our experts discuss key considerations for design teams working with timber suppliers, including lead times and manufacturing schedules, and share exciting new timber products and innovations that ASH is developing. We also explore the company's growth and evolution, the challenges faced in timber construction, and valuable advice for professionals interested in pursuing timber building projects.
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The Evolving Supply Chain to Enable Sustainable Construction
06/13/2023
The Evolving Supply Chain to Enable Sustainable Construction
In this episode of Timber Talks, we speak with Ian Tyson, CEO of Timberlink, about the company's recent investments in engineered wood products (EWPs). Ian shares his insights on expanding into new products and markets and discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with growth. We also explore the potential for exponential growth in the EWP industry and the importance of responsible and ethical sourcing of timber. Ian highlights the steps Timberlink takes to minimize the environmental impact of its operations and discusses the evolving supply chain with increased demand and new technology. Finally, we wrap up with Ian's advice for young professionals.
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Dealing With Fire Risk In Timber Buildings
05/30/2023
Dealing With Fire Risk In Timber Buildings
In this episode of Timber Talks, we speak with David Barber, a Principal at Arup, about the complex considerations involved in fire design for timber construction. We delve into the thought processes behind exposing timber in a building and explore the varying codes and regulations around the world. David shares his insights on how engineering deems acceptable risk levels and the most important research being conducted in the industry today. Finally, we look ahead to the future of timber construction and explore the exciting possibilities in this rapidly evolving field.
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Setting Projects Up For Success
05/16/2023
Setting Projects Up For Success
On this episode of Timber Talks, we sit down with Rob De Brincat, Head of Strategy and Business Development at Viridi. Rob shares his expertise on the topic of mass timber and its potential for becoming a mainstream construction material. We dive deep into the topic and discuss the importance of team collaboration, as well as the critical things that need to be done right from the beginning of projects. If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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Atlassian Tower - The Soaring Heights
05/02/2023
Atlassian Tower - The Soaring Heights
In this episode of WoodSolutions Timber Talks, we sit down with Ninotschka Titchkosky, co-CEO of BVN, to discuss the groundbreaking Atlassian Tower. As the world's tallest timber building, the Atlassian Tower in Sydney, Australia, stands as a testament to the potential of sustainable construction and design. Join us as we delve into the journey of creating this remarkable structure. Throughout our conversation, we explore the intricate process of designing the world's tallest timber building, from conception to completion, and the critical components that must be in place from the very beginning, including team dynamics, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and more. We discuss the sustainable design principles incorporated into the Atlassian Tower, and how they contribute to its eco-friendly footprint, as well as the major challenges faced during the design and construction phases and how the team overcame them.
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The Construction Phase Firsthand: Best Practices, Innovations and Training
04/18/2023
The Construction Phase Firsthand: Best Practices, Innovations and Training
In this episode of Timber Talks, I had a conversation with Christine Zinkgraf from Lewis Builds about the growth of mass timber buildings and the advantages of this construction method. We discussed topics such as the increase in interest, the speed of construction, the risks involved, and the level of prefabrication that makes sense. Christine also shared her thoughts on the challenges of using old versus new wood and the innovations in the industry, as well as where she sees the industry moving in the next five years.
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Upgrading The Documentation Processes With Software
04/04/2023
Upgrading The Documentation Processes With Software
In this episode of Timber Talks, we're speaking with Javier Glatt, the founder of Cadmakers about the future of construction documentation. We'll delve into the issues with traditional documentation processes and how software can offer a solution. We'll also discuss the evolution of the digital ecosystem in construction and how new technologies are changing the game. Javier will share his thoughts on what can be automated in the construction process, the future of BIM modeling and its impact on offsite construction, and much more. Get ready for an informative and engaging conversation on the future of construction documentation.
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Automating Design and Fabrication With New Technology
03/21/2023
Automating Design and Fabrication With New Technology
In this episode of Timber Talks, we're speaking with Oliver Lang CEO of Intelligent City about the future of construction and building. We'll be discussing the vision behind Oliver's work, the key technological advances being used today with a focus on robotics, the process of construction and how it differs from conventional methods, the hurdles to adoption of this new way of doing things, the balance between standardisation and flexibility, and finally, where Oliver sees the industry heading in the next 5 years. Oliver will share his knowledge and insights on these critical topics and provide a unique perspective on the future of construction and building. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of sustainable construction and building.
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CEFC Timber Building Program - Enabling Finance of Timber Construction
03/19/2023
CEFC Timber Building Program - Enabling Finance of Timber Construction
In this episode of Timber Talks, we're speaking with Christina Wijeratne from the Clean Energy Finance Corporation about sustainable construction and building. We'll be discussing the goals of the CEFC, the unique challenges of embodied carbon, the mass timber program and why it was deployed, what the money is for and how people can get involved, the dynamics of lending money for projects, and the future of sustainable construction. Christina will share her knowledge and insights on these critical topics and provide a unique perspective on the role of financing in sustainable construction. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of sustainable construction and building.
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Case Study: Mass Timber Innovation Hub at the University of Newcastle
03/08/2023
Case Study: Mass Timber Innovation Hub at the University of Newcastle
In this episode, we're exploring a case study on the Mass Timber Innovation Hub at the University of Newcastle. Our guest is Ali Habibi from Northrop, who was involved in the project and will share his knowledge and experiences. We'll be discussing why timber was chosen, the challenges faced during the project, the differences in the engineer's role for mass timber projects, the modelling and fabrication process, fire compliance and design, and lessons learned across all projects. Finally, Ali will give us his thoughts on how he sees the future of mass timber construction evolving. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of sustainable construction and building.
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Pragmatic Approaches to Construction Productivity
02/26/2023
Pragmatic Approaches to Construction Productivity
Today's episode is all about finding practical solutions for construction productivity. We have a special guest, Phil Tondl from Lipman, who will share his knowledge and expertise on the subject. Phil will discuss design team dynamics, the benefits of standardization, and the evolution of documentation in construction. Plus, Phil will give us his thoughts on what the offsite construction ecosystem will look like in the next 5 years. So, sit back, relax and join us for this exciting and informative conversation with Phil Tondl on Timber Talks.
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Upfront Considerations for Post and Beam
02/15/2023
Upfront Considerations for Post and Beam
Today we have a special guest, Lisa Oliver, Project Director at Holmes ANZ. In this episode, we dive into the world of post and beam construction, and Lisa shares her wealth of knowledge and experience in the industry. We discuss the creation of a high-level guide on post and beam construction, the role of the structural engineer at the beginning of the project, the key items to consider, common pitfalls to watch out for, and the latest innovations in the field. Plus, Lisa gives us a sneak peek into what she's currently working on and what exciting projects she has in the pipeline. So, join us for this informative and engaging conversation on Timber Talks.
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Timber’s Role in Urban Densification
12/19/2022
Timber’s Role in Urban Densification
As the global population continues to grow, our cities are becoming more congested and land is becoming more scarce. In recent years, building extensions has grown as a response to the demands of urban densification and sustainability. A new research project has looked at Urban Densifiaction in a new light with innovative solutions to these complex challenges. Today we’re speaking with Paul Kremer, host of the Mass Timber Construction Podcast (and a lot more) about using mass timber and hybrid construction to create sustainable and socially connected communities. If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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Modular Classrooms
12/05/2022
Modular Classrooms
The German International School Sydney consists of preassembled offsite CLT modules. The project aimed to build sustainable, prefabricated classrooms at a cost and time frame equivalent to traditional options whilst achieving the passive house design standard. In this episode we're speaking with Knut Menden, Principal at Betti & Knut Architects about: Why 3D modular was the preferred construction method, The overall costs compared to traditional demountable school designs, The advantages and possibilities around repeatability, And so much more! If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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Multidisciplinary Approach to Office Buildings
11/21/2022
Multidisciplinary Approach to Office Buildings
Prefabricated timber buildings require a shift in the design paradigms that are common in construction. Perhaps none more so than the need to have a multidisciplinary approach to professions in order to achieve the high quality and level of detail that is required early on projects. Today we're lucky to be speaking with Nigel Burdon, Technical Director at AECOM about the structural grids, acoustic requirements, compliance pathways, fire design and all of the major issues relating to commercial office buildings. If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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The Master Builder Mindset
11/07/2022
The Master Builder Mindset
In the past, structural engineers were typically more involved with the construction and erection of their designs. And this might be preferable for the timber buildings of today. Given that the cost associated with the timber structure is closely tied to connection and erection efficiency, following the Master Builder Mindset can set timber projects up for success. In this episode we're speaking with Leif Johnson the Structural Engineer Director at Structurecraft about the benefits of leveraging the design-install model. If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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Insuring Tall Timber Buildings
10/24/2022
Insuring Tall Timber Buildings
Insurance plays a critical role for any construction project. It particularly plays a key role in the adoption of mass timber systems in mid-rise and high-rise development. In this episode we’re lucky to be speaking with Jacob Concannon a Vice President at Gallagher, who are a global insurance broker who are creating awareness and education about mass timber through the insurance sector. In this episode we discuss the current state of play with mass timber and insurance and how things can be improved to streamline adoption moving forward. If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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Energy Efficient and Healthy Buildings
10/10/2022
Energy Efficient and Healthy Buildings
As our buildings are improving in energy efficiency, good envelope design is as important as it has ever been. For a successful holistic design there is a host of items that designers need to consider, that sometimes comes with tradeoffs. In this episode we're speaking to Mark Dewsbury a Lecturer of Architecture and Design at The University of Tasmania about: How our buildings have been improving over time, The tradeoffs between ventilation, durability and sustainabiltiy And best practice design strategies for holistic design If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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Eric Tweedle Stadium - Australia’s First Timber Stadium
09/26/2022
Eric Tweedle Stadium - Australia’s First Timber Stadium
Eric Tweedle Stadium is a new sports facility, consisting of mass timber with 9.5m cantilevers. This new state-of-the-art community sports pavilion is home to the first-grade Two Blues Rugby Union team, with seating for 750 spectators, and is the first mass-timber framed grandstand structure in Australia. The project won the 2021 Timber Design Award amongst strong competition. In this episode we're speaking with Ivana Simkovic project architect from DWP and Nick Boey the project Engineer from Northrop about the design, installation and keys to the project's success. If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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Industrialised Construction
09/12/2022
Industrialised Construction
Industrialised construction encompasses a shift towards of commodisation of construction products and manufacturing processes whilst maintaining architectural intent and flexibility. This has the potential to improve productivity and enable decarbonisation whilst improving the sector's profit margins. In this episode we're speaking with Allan Chalmers (Industrialised Technical Specialist) and Ryan McMahon (Director of Products for Industrialised Construction) about: What is manufacturing informed design, What have the hurdles to adoption been so far, The success stories in Australia and around the world, And much more! If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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Costing Prefabricated Timber Buildings
08/29/2022
Costing Prefabricated Timber Buildings
Engineered timber construction systems are rapidly growing in popularity. With specifiers and developers selecting timber solutions for their triple bottom line benefits, it has never been more important for the cost consulting industry to understand the products available and their cost implications. In this episode we’re speaking with Barry Lynch and Eoin McLoughlin from Logic Group about: The existing top-down data on the costing, What elements go into the “wholistic cost”, And how fast we can install and corresponding savings on the prelims for timber buildings If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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Timber In The National Construction Code
08/15/2022
Timber In The National Construction Code
The National Construction Code is Australia's primary set of technical design and construction provisions for buildings. The code has a long complex history, and understanding it is critical to building to an acceptable level of quality and ensure safety. Understanding the compliance pathways is critical for successful timber buildings. And today, we're speaking with Andrew Dunn the CEO of the Timber Development Association about The performance requirements and compliance pathways, How to achieve an FRL with timber products and What circumstances may additional fire testing be required If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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William Perkins Case Study - Keys to Rapid Construction
08/01/2022
William Perkins Case Study - Keys to Rapid Construction
William Perkins High School consists of a significant quantity of exposed wooden structures, enabling the benefits of biophilia for the students and building occupants. Education buildings have the unique challenges, when trying to build in the short windows that sit between teaching periods. Within these windows the building was constructed with an innovative team and creative engineers. In this episode, we’re speaking with Alan Dowdall, the project structural engineer, a timber specialist with vast experience about achieving fast programs in construction and the importance of simplicity in design. If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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New Research Into Fire Dynamics of Wooden Buildings
07/18/2022
New Research Into Fire Dynamics of Wooden Buildings
Architects are looking to expose wood as much as possible, in order to demonstrate the benefits of sustainability and enable the advantages of biophilia. However, when exposing timber a good understanding of both the fire resistance level of the building elements, and the dynamics of the fuel load are critical to understand. Recent research has unveiled new insights into the safe exposure of wood, isolating items such as amount of encapsulation, location of encapsulation and ventilation. In this episode, we’re speaking with Daniel Brandon Senior Research Scientist at RISE (Sweden) who is one of the world’s foremost experts on large scale fire testing, on designing for exposed wooden structures. If you want to learn more about designing or building with timber, I recommend you go to the WoodSolutions Website and download the Technical Design Guides: I recommend watching the WoodSolutions weekly webinars. Previous recordings can be found on the WoodSolutions website:
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