Timber iQ June - July 2019 // Issue: 44 | Page 38

PROJECTS The interior of the swimming pool’s roof. Continued from page 34 concrete foundation and prefabricated timber pitched and tapered roof, intends to be a contemporary expression of the local architecture. During the 9th Wood conference held in Cape Town this year, the advantages of prefabricated timber houses for developers were discussed. According to Ulrich Grimminger and Thomas Just, following a steady decline in timber construction since the 1800s and with the introduction of concrete and steel, there has been an increase in demand since about 2000. In Germany timber construction is expected to hold 30% of market share. One of the major advantages of prefabricated timber is that it is primarily very efficient on site, but also greatly reduces waste as the production process is very precise. A prefabricated roof structure was used on a concrete retaining base. Sustainably sourced, Scandinavian wood contributed to the main beams, pillars and supports while the exterior was constructed using cross laminated timber (CLT) ply skin and the interior was finished with a white breathable wash. According to Brad Burback, CLT originates from Germany and Austria where it was primarily used as structural members. In his research paper titled ‘Potential of cross laminated timber in single family residential construction,’ Burback explains how CLT is made from wood lamina, slightly smaller than dimension lumber and is stacked into odd number of layers (laminations) in an orthogonal pattern, similar to the way modern plywood is created. To create a single solid wood panel, the laminations are glued together. By featuring a tapered design Duggan Morris formed an acoustic baffle to reduce echo, consequently allowing a calm and serene atmosphere for the pupils. In addition, a low- level glass window strip around the pool allows for an unobstructed view of the surrounding fields and landscapes 36 JUNE / JULY 2019 // The roof of the swimming pool at Alfriston School. creating a wonderful finish and providing pupils and the public with a peaceful environment. Following the masterplan designed for a phased design programme, funding was raised from various stake holders which included Sport England, local government and private donors. The pool’s total capacity is for 24 people. www.timberiq.co.za