Timeless Australian Timber in Construction – University of Tasmania’s West Park Campus by John Wardle Architects

John Wardle Architects has utilised the best in timber innovation and technology with Australian Sustainable Hardwoods (ASH) mass timber. Drawing on biophilic design principles, the result is an inviting space for the University of Tasmania’s West Park Campus.

With over 30 years of experience milling and manufacturing timber in Australia, ASH is a leader in producing high-quality timber products for the built environment. Identifying a gap in Australia’s mass timber offering, ASH developed MASSLAM – a range of glue-laminated timber systems including floors, beams and columns – designed and manufactured for assembly.

Not only is timber renewable, recyclable and biodegradable, ASH manufactures timber that is sustainably and responsibly harvested.

‘Mass timber’ itself is a type of construction. In contrast to light-frame wood construction, mass timber is typically made using large panels, columns, beams, and flooring systems and is pre-fabricated off-site for ease of installation. The process greatly reduces construction waste, on-site programme risk and embodied energy by fabricating structures in a controlled factory line. The MASSLAM team work with design teams to create a virtual 3D model – even the screws are millimetre accurate – and the robotic CNCs machine the massive timber elements to suit the custom designed bracketry. Brackets are attached and members are shipped to site and can be installed off the back of the truck. MASSLAM’s appeal lies within its strength – using Australian timbers with some of the best strength-to-weight ratios available worldwide – and its capability – designed for large commercial and domestic projects, MASSLAM allows for long spans, high ceilings, increased floor space or lesser beam depth.

The University of Tasmania’s West Park Campus in Burnie is testament to this. Designed by John Wardle Architects and built by Fairbrother, the space is lined with glue-laminated MASSLAM 450×450 columns that span upward across two storeys to meet a timber ceiling. This mass timber application allows for the connection between people and the natural world within the built environment, the tenet of biophilic design. Nature connected design, specifically the use of wood in design, is known to improve air quality, improve emotional wellbeing and reduce stress.

The timber columns in West Park Campus stand steady and tree-like, their natural gum veins and knots visible within each laminated piece of wood. Their vast scale, as well as the natural light and open space around them, further this reference. The MASSLAM used is made from Responsible Wood PEFC certified Victorian ash, which conforms with requirements in the latest GBCA 6-Star rating. The tone, texture and colour of the timber feels familiar and linked to the Australian bush.

Bringing balance to the solidity of the columns and mullions are batten clad walls that repeat the lines on a smaller scale. Timber doors, lockers and desks complete the largely mono-material scheme, which is more than just an aesthetic choice; the materials chosen for the space are born from a climate conscious world. Not only is timber renewable, recyclable and biodegradable, ASH manufactures timber that is sustainably and responsibly harvested. Grown and produced in Australia, MASSLAM also costs less to construct than its non-renewable counterparts, such as concrete or steel.

The use of MASSLAM throughout West Park Campus by John Wardle Architects feels distinctly timeless. It is a tranquil, smart and welcoming university campus, a fitting place to express the coming together of technology, sustainability and design.