THE home of the head of Edinburgh Napier University’s Centre for Offsite Construction + Innovative Structures has won a top wood award.
Dr Robert Hairstans chose Accoya to clad the exterior of his family home – a 1930s bungalow – and provide the external support beams of a cantilevered glazed kitchen extension.
The refurbishment has now been named Modified Wood Project of the Year by the Wood Protection Association.
Architect David Blaikie opted to use Accoya, citing its BREEAM ‘excellent’ rating as a key factor. Accoya is created by using a proprietary process called acetylation on sustainably sourced woods. This, according to manufacturers Accsys Technologies, results in a “non-toxic, attractive wood which matches or exceeds the properties of tropical hardwood”.
John Alexander, director of sales and product development at Accsys Technologies, said, “We’re delighted that this ground-breaking project has been recognised by the Wood Protection Association.
“The varied use of Accoya throughout the property in Edinburgh is testament to the product’s performance and appeal. The Accoya support beams beneath the bungalow have undergone extensive testing, and have outperformed many other traditional foundations.”
