In a region where the timber industry is a significant part of the regional heritage, the selection of ‘heavy section’ or ‘mass’ timber construction by NOWarchitecture for the rejuvenation and development of the Bairnsdale library is most appropriate. This structure is however a modern interpretation of traditional design and joinery.
The design features dovetail mortise and tenon joints for connection of long span LVL joists to supporting beams. This connection, made possible with the use of a modern CNC joinery machine, not only speeds construction but also provides a visually attractive intersection detail. Elsewhere, the accuracy and precision of CNC prefabrication has been utilised to create rotationally rigid dowel joints between beams and columns for the development of 2-way frame action to resist lateral loads.
The following extracted from NOWarchitecture submission for the Australian Timber Industry Awards (Finalist 2015)
From the preserved volume, material and detail of the 1889 Mechanics Hall, to sculptural timber stairways, to CAD/CAM prefabricated exposed elegant, joinery quality, LVL structure; sustainability is evident. An holistic design approach has reduced construction, operation and energy costs.
LocationBairnsdale, Victoria
Completed2014
ArchitectNOW Architecture
BuilderBooker Builders Pty Ltd
Structural designSEMF Pty Ltd & Timberbuilt Australia Pty Ltd