NZ Wood, in partnership with the New Zealand Timber Design Society, New Zealand Pine Manufacturers Association and Carter Holt Harvey, is calling for entries for the 2008 Timber Design Awards.

The awards are open to architects, builders, building designers, engineers, students and other designers whose work includes significant use of timber.

The number and range of categories in which work might be considered has been increased this year to reflect the wide use to which timber can be put in contemporary construction.

Lawrie Halkett, CEO of New Zealand Pine Manufacturers Association comments, "We have added a category for 'Sustainability' this year to recognise the environmental contribution that using timber in construction makes over the lifetime of a building. Contemporary designs turn to smart technology for operational efficiency and reduced resource use and we see increased use of timber as a significant factor in delivering buildings with outstanding environmental credentials."

Government regulation which requires that from 1 September 2008, all new low-rise (ie up to four storeys) public sector buildings are to consider at least one timber design option is expected to gain considerable attention from architects, designers and builders. "Wood is a product with exceptional visual, environmental and construction qualities and it will be interesting to see just how well industry professionals demonstrate its versatility," says Halkett

Awards will be decided across eight design categories, including:

1. Residential Architectural Excellence

2. Residential Engineering Excellence

3. Commercial Architectural Excellence

4. Commercial Engineering Excellence

5. Sustainability

6. Outdoor Infrastructure

7. Cladding Building Envelope

8. Interior Fit Out

Submitted projects must be based on a completed building or structure, with the exception of the Sustainability Award that accepts proposals submitted for bona fide projects. Entries will be judged on outstanding timber use, appearance, workmanship, structure and innovation.

Engineering entries can be submitted for short-listing in electronic format until Friday 15 August. The final deadline for all entries, including the short-listed Engineering submissions is Friday 12th September. The winners in each category will be announced at a gala event to be held at the Langham Hotel in Auckland, on 20 October.