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Andrew Waugh – a big hit at the ATDA presentation nights |
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Monday, 21 December 2009 00:00 |
Andrew Waugh of Waugh Thistleton, London
Despite a few hiccups with the PowerPoint projectors the 4 regional Timber Design Awards presentation nights went off without a major hitch and were all very well attended. The guest speaker, Andrew Waugh from Waugh Thistleton of London, did not disappoint any of those who waited to see his presentation on the world’s tallest timber residential building.
Andrew’s warm and friendly nature put the crowds at ease as he recalled his early days in the east end of London and talked about the need for better building quality in the high rise developments that now dominate that sector of the famous city.
He explained that he chose the solid timber system because of the environmental advantages it provided and how it allowed for much simpler compliance with local building regulations than conventional masonry type methods.
Andrew also confided that although timber was the main structural component of the 9 storey building (he provided samples of the laminated material at each of the presentations), the developers were adamant that when completed the project needed to appear similar to all other conventional structures.
Timber was by no means the developers’ first choice, however the lower cost, shorter construction time and easier compliance with environmental regulations drove their approval of something new, but selling of the housing units was the most import factor. In the end, all units sold almost as soon as the project was completed, something that Andrew said he often reinforced with the developers as he sees greater opportunities for what is still a very new method for high rise developments.
Andrew was quick to point out that he was very much enjoying his time in Australia and would be happy to return, particularly if an offer to design timber buildings were to become available. Given the response from local timber producers and potential developers who enjoyed his witty presentations, the possibility of an Australian office of Waugh Thistleton is certainly on the cards. |
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