Crafted Hardwoods has etched its name in sustainability history by clinching the prestigious Green Building Material/Product Award at the Sustainability Awards 2024. Recognised for their innovative approach to eco-friendly craftsmanship, the company has set a new benchmark in the green building industry
Architecture & Design: Why do you think you were honoured for your entry?
Our entry represents a significant breakthrough in sustainable timber production. Crafted Hardwoods tackles one of the most pressing challenges in the timber and construction industries: balancing the increasing demand for hardwood with the urgent need to protect forests and biodiversity. We offer an innovative solution that directly addresses supply chain uncertainty, price volatility, and environmental impact.
Our process redefines how low-value wood resources can be used, demonstrating a scalable and sustainable alternative to traditional timbers that minimises waste, promotes upcycling, and aligns seamlessly with circular economy principles.
But our entry was not just another example of how innovation can drive meaningful change in the built environment. We were able to demonstrate our alignment with global sustainability goals, our commitment to responsible forestry practices, and our contribution to social impact initiatives, which likely resonated with the judging panel.
What did your entry add to the body of knowledge of sustainable design?
A key component of our entry was to present a viable model for circular economy practices within the timber industry. Our entry challenged the traditional reliance on mature trees by utilising abundant, low-value pulpwood resources, demonstrating how science and engineering can up-value waste streams into high-quality materials.
This approach expands the possibilities for using timber as a renewable, low-carbon building material in projects that prioritise sustainability. It sets a precedent for integrating cutting-edge technologies, such as biomimicry and AI-driven manufacturing, into sustainable material production, highlighting how these advancements can enhance material performance while reducing environmental impact.
The Australian forestry industry is facing some of the toughest challenges in its history, impacting both supply and quality. Making the most of our existing resources is more critical than ever, and that’s exactly where we come in – we can make a difference. The solution is already here.
How can your material influence the design of buildings in the future?
Conventional timber already contributes to buildings that are not only beautiful but also healthier and more sustainable. With Crafted Hardwood timber, it’s all about reimagining the possibilities — like transforming round trees into square ones. By learning from nature, drawing on time-honoured techniques, and integrating the latest advancements in science, we are creating a material that sets itself apart and is designed to achieve extraordinary things.
Stay tuned - we have some exciting developments in the works that we can't wait to share.
This category is sponsored by Cosentino.
Image: Ishitax Crafted Hardwoods / Supplied
