Scots timber in Venice architecture show

Scottish contract joiners Avonhill has manufactured a stunning wooden installation which will represent Scotland’s architectural community at the Biennale di Venezia 11th International Architecture Exhibition in Venice.

Hamilton-based Avonhill, which has a timber kit manufacturing division, was commissioned to build A Gathering Space by The Lighthouse, Scotland’s National Architecture and Design Centre.

The company assembled the 7m-high structure, designed by Gareth Hoskins Architects, at its headquarters before taking it apart and shipping it to Italy.

It is made from Scots larch supplied by Newtonmore-based Russwood, JJI-Joists by James Jones & Sons, LVL from Bo’ness–based timber engineer Donaldson & McConnell, and Norbord's SterlingOSB.

It takes the form of a large flight of stairs which the public can use as seating and will be sited in Venice’s Piazzale della Stazione Santa Lucia until October 12.

“A Gathering Space aims to harness the buzz and boundless energy of the Biennale with a lively programme of events bringing together Scottish and international voices to stimulate debate, exchange ideas and address some of the key architectural issues facing the world today,” said Nick Barley, director of The Lighthouse.