Highlights from the Timber Design Awards – 2025. By Campbell McInnes
Above: Australian War Memorial Spiral Staircase
The 25th Australian Timber Design Awards, hosted by the Timber Development Association (TDA), took place this year in Melbourne at the Rydges Hotel – CBD. The event began with a lively reception of drinks and canapés at 6:00 pm, before guests moved into the dining area for the official proceedings, which commenced promptly at 7:00 pm.
TDA CEO Andrew Dunn had advised earlier on the growing significance of timber in Australian architecture. “As we reach the quarter mark for this century, the Australian Timber Design Awards continue to affirm timber’s place at the forefront of contemporary architecture. This year’s entries not only display extraordinary design quality but also highlight timber’s evolving role as a driver of sustainable, resilient, and human-centred spaces,” He said.
The Master of Ceremonies for the evening was Rebecca Gilling, Co-CEO of Planet Ark, and well-known for her previous career in Australian television, with notable roles in Return to Eden and The Young Doctors. With her trademark warmth and charisma, Gilling brought energy to an already vibrant room and guided the evening’s events with poise and enthusiasm.
Gilling also extended thanks to the event’s sponsors, without whom the awards would not be possible. This year’s sponsors included WoodSolutions, Intergrain Trade & Industrial, XLAM, ITI Australia, Responsible Wood, Kennedy’s Timber, Timber Construct 2025, Timber NSW and Planet Ark.
Above: Rebecca Gilling (MC) presenting the judges
The judging panel, comprising five respected industry figures, was introduced with full credentials. The judges were:
Anthony Burke, Professor of Architecture, University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
Burke a dynamic figure across academia and media, he hosts ABC TV’s Restoration Australia, Grand Designs Australia, and co-hosts Grand Designs Transformations. In 2025 he launched a new ABC Radio National series, Home Front with Anthony Burke, exploring how design can reshape Australia’s housing future. Previously Head of UTS Architecture and Associate Dean of International Engagement, he is acclaimed for his work in architectural design, curation, writing, and global lecturing.
James Fitzpatrick, Founding Partner, Fitzpatrick + Partners, Architects
Fitzpatrick + Partners, is a Sydney based architecture studio established in 2001 that has become a leader in innovative, sustainable, and timber-focused design across Australia. Educated at the University of Tasmania and the National Institute of Dramatic Art, he brings a unique multidisciplinary perspective to architecture. A respected voice in timber innovation and carbon-conscious design, James lectures internationally and continues to champion architecture.
Meryl Hare, Director, Hare & Klein
Hare + Klein, is an award-winning Sydney- based interior design studio. Originally from South Africa and raised in Zambia and Switzerland, she migrated to Australia in 1988. She is a Fellow of the Design Institute of Australia, inducted into its Hall of Fame (2011), and honoured in the Australian House & Garden Hall of Fame (2018); in 2024, she received the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her extraordinary contributions to the field. Also, a two-time author (Texture Colour Comfort, 2014; Interior, 2020).
Nick Hewson, Director, Arboralis
A chartered structural engineer, timber specialist, who launched his consultancy firm in 2023 to advance high-quality timber structures and prefabrication in Australia. With more than two decades of experience spanning structural consultancy, CLT manufacturing, and prefabricated buildings. He has delivered hundreds of timber projects across Australasia. A leading voice in mass- timber discourse, Nick also co-founded Timber DiaLog, a community initiative promoting knowledge-sharing.
Rebecca Gilling, Co-CEO, Planet Ark
Planet Ark, Australia’s most trusted environmental organisation, where Gilling has served in leadership roles for over two decades. With a Master’s degree in Sustainable Development, she guides Planet Ark’s strategy around the circular economy and sustainable resource use, and connecting people with nature. Under her leadership, Planet Ark launched the Australian Circular Economy Hub and delivers impactful programs like National Tree Day, National Recycling Week and Cartridges 4 Planet Ark.
The winners for this year’s Timber Design Awards were announced. The winners, starting with the main award, not in order of announcement were:
Above: Winners Australian Timber Design Award 2025, Kevin Peachey (right) presenting award
AUSTRALIAN TIMBER DESIGN AWARD – 2025 Boot Factory
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Structural Engineer: Partridge
Fabricators: TGA Engineers, Cavanagh Corp
Builder: Schiavello Construction
Location: Bondi Junction, NSW
Above: Boot Factory – Cloud Room
The Boot Factory is a striking example of how timber can breathe new life into heritage architecture. Originally constructed in 1892 and once slated for demolition, the building has been reimagined as a modern civic innovation hub through adaptive reuse.
The project preserved the original brick perimeter walls, while the interior and roof were entirely reworked using glue-laminated Australian hardwood. Exposed Victorian Ash columns and an inverted floor system highlight outstanding timber craftsmanship, providing both warmth and long-term adaptability. A distinctive new roof design, with radial timber rafters converging at a central skylight, draws natural light deep into the interior.
Timber plays a central role, connecting the building’s storied past with its forward- looking future. The result is a warm, durable, and sustainable interior where structure and design are seamlessly integrated. Sustainability guided every decision—from conserving heritage fabric and using locally sourced materials to boosting energy performance and lowering embodied carbon. By retaining and showcasing the original 1890s brickwork, the design embraces circular principles and significantly reduces waste.
The Boot Factory illustrates how heritage buildings can be transformed into future-ready, low-impact community assets—elegantly combining timber, history, and innovation.
Kevin Peachey, Head of WoodSolutions Program said, “on behalf of Australia’s timber industry, I extend warm congratulations to all entrants, finalists, and winners of the 2025 Australian Timber Design Awards. Your work exemplifies the innovation, craftsmanship, and forward-thinking that continue to propel timber design and construction across the nation.”
Peachey added, “we’re proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of all those honoured in the 2025 Australian Timber Design Awards and look forward to the inspired designs that will continue to shape our cities and landscapes.”
A final word from Andrew Dunn, “I encourage you to explore the exceptional projects recognised this year. Whether you are an architect, engineer, builder, or design enthusiast, I hope these works inspire you to imagine new possibilities for timber in shaping the built environment.”
