Architectural students rewarded in NWTTA competition

The North West Timber Trade Association (NTTA) sponsoring of a student Architect prize at the University of Liverpool saw Rhiannon Williams take first place for her project 'Brewlam'.

Her design was one of 10 projects shortlisted from the 180 BA3 Architecture student cohort. In second place was Lauren Greensill with Paws in the Park and third place Kate Johnstone with 'Connecting Tate'.

Rhiannon’ s prize of £500 was presented at the NWTTA annual gala dinner at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Liverpool on March 23, with the prize sponsored by W Howard Group.

All 10 shortlisted students are to travel to Lockerbie Sawmill, Dumfries courtesy of timber processing group James Jones and Sons.

W Howard’s Jonathan Grant said the competition was encouraging greater interest in designing wooded structures and raising awareness of the timber industry among bright young architects of the future.

Meanwhile, Timber Trade Federation (TTF) president Charles Hopping raised the subjects of Brexit and the Grenfell fire tragedy at the NWTTA dinner.

He referenced the Grenfell fire report interim conclusion, which said the current regulations for ensuring fire safety in high-rise and complex buildings was not fit for purpose.

“We can expect changes in regulations, in enforcement and in user attitudes – not just in respect of fire but in other aspects of construction too,” he said.

Demonstrating compliance and educating users on the use of wood products would be key, he added.