fitzpatrick+partners' The Seed House has taken out the major award at the 2019 Australian Timber Design Awards.

The prestigious project, located in Sydney's Castlecrag, is the work of architect James Fitzpatrick, who combined cross-laminated timber and stone for a design that has been garnering acclaim since its unveiling.

Award and event platinum sponsor WoodSolutions describe The Seed House as "wrapping the occupants in timber" with its structural cross-laminated timber panels, glulam columns and lining board finish. The construction is complimented by joinery and furniture made from timber sourced from the bottom of the hydro lakes in Tasmania. Species used include celery top pine, huon pine, radiata pine and blackwood.

The complex geometry, large spans and cantilevers took hundreds of hours of computer analysis to ensure optimal structure, aesthetic and compliance with Australian environmental and construction guidelines. Ultimately, the process led to the development of new fixing and detailing systems to deliver the best results.

"Utilising the latest technologies in engineered timber construction, this healthy home imbues a sense of warmth and comfort," says Fitzpatrick.

"Every bracket and screw is used to inform the overall aesthetic of the home, with materials selected so to develop a patina of use and character with time. The normal is sculptured to become the beautiful. Its experimentation in construction and engineering has supported the architectural vision. It is a forever home, yet it is home to a young family. It will adapt and change as they do, forever."

The Seed House also received the award for Excellence in Timber Application, New Building at the event, which is now in its 20th year. The Australian Timber Design Awards seek to promote and celebrate the use of wood and wood products in the built environment.

For a list of all award winners, visit www.timberdesignawards.com.au.

Lead image © The Guthrie Project.
Other images © John Gollings.