Category: Winners 2022-23

Over the past 12 months ForestOne’s A&D Trade Competition has encouraged architects and designers to specify responsibly with the use of EGGER wood-based décor products. While there were many outstanding projects that showcased EGGER’s sustainable product range, Genevieve Vu at DC8 Studio was the lucky winner to secure the grand prize of a trip to the Interzum trade fair in Cologne, Germany. Held in May, Interzum 2023 offered Genevieve the chance to learn more about the latest innovations in sustainable specifying and to gain further insight into EGGER’s ongoing commitment to a circular economy.

One of ForestOne’s Trade Promotion winners in round six, Genevieve specified responsibly by utilising EGGER’s robust and sustainably manufactured laminates and boards throughout Stockland Armstrong Creek, an active living community for people aged over 55 near Geelong, Victoria. After being awarded the grand prize, the designer attended the prestigious Interzum trade fair, accompanied by ForestOne Specification Representative Kellie Cross and Group Decorative and Specification Manager Darryl Ball. “Interzum exceeded my expectations,” says Genevieve, who returned home with a renewed passion for sustainability. “This was my first trade show and the scale of the information available was tremendous.”

With hundreds of suppliers and fabricators showcasing their products over the four-day event, Interzum gave Genevieve the opportunity to learn more about innovations currently being developed worldwide. A focal point for the trip was the EGGER exhibition held in the Interzum Boulevard of Sustainability, where Genevieve and Kellie met with Dr Martina Bender, the Product Sustainability Manager of EGGER group, who shared details about the EGGER approach to sustainability, recycling and the lifecycle of the company and products. Here, Genevieve says, they were able to develop a deeper understanding of EGGER’s mission to create a circular economy and given a preview of EGGER’s latest decors “to see new innovative products, as well as their absolute focus on sustainability,” states Genevieve.

There was also the opportunity to learn from other companies and exhibitors at the trade fair. “The exhibition’s central theme of ‘new ecology’ brought together a collection of new, innovative materials as part of the trend forum ‘Materials and Nature’,” Genevieve says. “It was encouraging to see so many products and their fabricators honestly answering and showing the data to any claims of sustainability and carbon costs.” As Genevieve’s winning design was a public sales and community building, she had the advantage of seeing first-hand “how other countries interact with public spaces,” she says. In addition to giving Genevieve an array of opportunities to learn more about sustainability, the trip also provided the chance for her “to visit cities and spaces that had been a part of my architectural education and practice”.

“Interzum exceeded my expectations,” says Genevieve. “This was my first trade show and the scale of the information available was tremendous.”

While joining Genevieve at Interzum, Kellie was also afforded the chance to visit two of EGGER’s European mills. At Giffhorn Mill, which manufactures EGGER’s laminates, Kellie was able to watch as the laminates were fed through the machine and processed into its final version. Over at the EGGER Brilon Mill – where several of the brand’s products including Eurodekor® and PerfectSense® Eurodekor are processed – she says she witnessed the level of sustainability in the manufacturing process for each of the products. “To see the process of automation while pressing the Eurodekor panels, and the highest of quality control that goes into the process for each of the products, just reaffirmed that EGGER ensures their products are the most sustainable and highest of quality for joinery designs,” Kellie explains.

Returning with a wealth of knowledge and excitement to put to use all they have learned, both Genevieve and Kellie are ready to embark on their next projects. As the Specified Responsibly Representative of 2023, Kellie says her experience of attending Interzum with her client Genevieve “was an absolute career highlight – to be guided through the 600 square metre EGGER stand, and hosted by different EGGER specialists was incredible.”

Genevieve also returned with a refreshed mindset and ready to tackle her next design project. “I was left particularly energised to further my learning into sustainable practices by following through right to the source,” Genevieve enthuses. Equally, she encourages other designers and architects to share their work and learn from others. “It was a great experience as a monthly winner to share the work and be given the space and platform to talk about process and priorities.” With ForestOne’s next trade promotion affording a winner the opportunity to visit EuroCucina in Milan, Italy, in 2024, there’s added incentive to participate.

“To see the process of automation while pressing the Eurodekor panels, and the highest of quality control that goes into the process for each of the products, just reaffirmed that EGGER ensures their products are the most sustainable and highest of quality for joinery designs,” Kellie explains.

Author: Brett Winchester
Photography: Cieran Murphy | https://cieranmurphy.com/ and Images supplied by ForestOne

DC8 Studio | https://dc8studio.com/
ForestOne | https://www.forest.one/
EGGER | https://www.egger.com/

Foregrounding sustainability in their design and material specification, aged care facilities Cheltenham House by TSD Studio and Blacktown Aged Care Home by Gilmore Interior Design have won ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Competition for January. For their exemplary use of EGGER’s wood-based décor products, the designers have been entered into the draw for the 2023 Grand Prize to win a trip to Interzum in Cologne.

The winning designers – Chenelle King, Director at TSD Studio, and Gilmore Interior Design’s Marie Barlow, Trina Kazi and Jenny Gilmore – worked closely with ForestOne representatives to confidently choose the most suitable EGGER wood-based décor products for their projects. Aged care facilities have a very specific set of design requirements to ensure the safety and wellbeing of their occupants. By delivering thoughtful and enduring care facilities, Gilmore Interior Design and TSD Studio have showcased how these requirements may be complemented by sustainable materials to produce a project that is beneficial to current and future residents.

The new Cheltenham House from Thompson Health Care is located in the leafy suburbs of Beecroft in Sydney’s north-west. Previously Anglicare’s Judy Cameron House, the site also houses the residential heritage property Bruony, owned by the Arnott family. Negotiating the property’s existing heritage features with modern health additions was a key consideration of the design. Speaking to both past and present of the site, TSD created a careful juxtaposition between the main facility and heritage house.

Chenelle King at TSD Studio was tasked with creating a sophisticated and functional atmosphere for residents and visitors while avoiding overt visual medical references in the finishes. Using colour as a wayfinding technique, Chenelle explains that she purposefully designed each floor “in a different tone, to ensure residents and staff can easily recognise where they are.” EGGER laminates were used for these colourways, due to the wide range of shades available and the sustainable credentials of the materials.

“Our focus with interior sustainability is to ensure that the current client needs are met while also ensuring the materials and finishes we use are environmentally responsible,” Chanelle says. “We want to ensure the future of the earth and its ecosystem remain intact for many generations.” Approaching a project in this way has many benefits for the client as well as the end users, she explains. “Designing in an ecofriendly manner can be more costly in the initial outset but can ultimately result in more energy-efficient outcomes overall.”

Negotiating the property’s existing heritage features with modern health additions was a key consideration of the design.

At Blacktown Aged Care Home, Trina Kazi, Practice Manager and Interior Designer, Jenny Gilmore, Director, and Maria Barlow, Lead Designer at Gilmore Interior Design, have modernised the existing home and expanded the facilities to provide new accommodation for the changing demographic of Western Sydney. Environmental sustainability was top-of-mind from the project’s outset, as Gilmore Interior Design and the client, Hardi Aged Care, recognised the value of retaining the existing building and rejuvenating the interior spaces.

“The re-use of the building is in line with the client’s personal interest in environmental sustainability,” Trina says. “Increasingly, aged care architects and designers are employing environmentally sustainable design principles in recognition of the benefits to the residents and staff in creating healthy buildings.”

While traditional aged care facilities tend to be stark and clinical in nature, the ethos of Gilmore Interior Design is to create enriching environments. An initial assessment of the site found the circa 1980s – 90s brick building had a number of compliance issues, together with clinical interiors that were tired and uninviting. The designers responded to the needs of the client by providing space planning and colour palettes, concealing exposed services and distracting elements and improving the lighting. There were also the practical considerations at play in designing for individuals in aged care facilities, including sourcing materials that create a healthy environment with low VOC emissivity and antimicrobial properties while also being durable and easy to clean.

To address this diverse set of needs, Gilmore Interior Design worked with ForestOne to employ EGGER wood-based décor products in Polar Blue for all laminate surfaces. “This product is specified for joinery in the residents’ bedrooms,” Trina explains. “The EGGER laminate was the specific colour required, and it had the appropriate LRV (light reflectance value) levels required.” The product also allows for wayfinding in the rooms, with colour providing an important cue for residents and enabling them to navigate independently.

Due to the large range of EGGER laminates available, Gilmore Interior Design felt confident using products that would meet the client’s criteria of being environmentally responsible. “We know that as a company, they have undertaken the research to make important technical and product information readily available,” says Trina.

Environmental sustainability was top-of- mind from the project’s outset, as Gilmore Interior Design and the client, Hardi Aged Care, recognised the value of retaining the existing building and rejuvenating the interior spaces.

With efficient and well-considered designs, TSD Studio and Gilmore Interior Design have confidently specified sustainable materials that benefit the end users. Collaborating with ForestOne representatives, both January winners have exemplified the use of EGGER materials to promote eco-friendly and cost-effective design. 

Author: Brett Winchester
Photography: Luke Dubblede | https://www.instagram.com/lukedubbelde/?hl=en and Adam Amin | https://www.adamamin.com.au/ 

Gilmore Interior Design | https://www.gilmoreid.com.au/ 
TSD Studio | http://tsdstudio.com.au/ 
EGGER | https://www.egger.com
ForestOne | https://www.forest.one

Answering the demand for more accessible sustainable design, The Jolly Miller Cafe by Wayne Boothman from Toothpicks Creative and the Fhiaba Showroom by Andy Collins from Brand Dimensions have both won ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Competition for December. Having shown exemplary use of EGGER’s wood-based products, both designers have been entered into the draw for the 2023 Grand Prize to win a trip to Interzum in Cologne.

Embodying focused design choices, the December winners worked closely with ForestOne representatives to confidently choose EGGER wood-based décor products for their designs. Aiming to deliver permanent public spaces, Wayne from Toothpicks Creative and Andy from Brand Dimensions showcased how sustainable materials can help produce projects grounded in longevity. Through their specification and use of EGGER products, Wayne and Andy will join the array of talented entrants who are in the draw for a once in a lifetime trip to Interzum.

Following a brief that requested an enticing space that remained within budget, Wayne combined the Jolly Miller Cafe’s navy colouring with moments of green. Located in a Vicinity Centre – a leading retail property group – Toothpicks Creative followed a strict design process and employment of products. “Vicinity has strict design guidelines,” Wayne explains, “and their sustainability strategy focuses on creating low-carbon, sustainable destinations that are resilient to climate change and support the local community.” As a result, Wayne needed to consider using products and materials that had sustainable and ethical supply chains, as well as reduced waste, low VOC, E1 or E0 materials, specified FSC or PEFC timbers, and selected finishes from GECA or Global GreenTag. Ultimately, the required elements pertaining to Wayne’s design led him to EGGER, as the company’s products easily fit the criteria, as well as being a cost-effective solution for the client.

Confidently specifying EGGER’s Natural Anthor Oak woodgrains and Diamond Grey throughout the interior, Wayne was able to cater to the strict guidelines of Vicinity whilst also prioritising his own sustainable ambitions. “Our methodology when designing products is focused on education for ourselves and our customers,” Wayne says. “We have become more aware of the importance to look after the environment for future generations.” Wayne explains that they were drawn to EGGER because “it takes its responsibilities seriously – for products, production, as well as employees and society,” adding that it was ForestOne’s showroom that helped him to choose the right products.

Embodying focused design choices, the December winners worked closely with ForestOne representatives to confidently choose EGGER wood-based décor products for their designs.

With nearly two decades of building a strong working relationship with Eurolinx, Andy from Brand Dimensions was tasked with developing the showroom for Fhiaba – a manufacturer of fridges, freezers and wine storage for high-end kitchens. Being relatively new to the Australian market, it was “important to make the right impression from the start,” Andy says. “Our task was to create an in-store design concept, which conveyed all these attributes.” For the showroom displays, Brand Dimensions chose to work with EGGER. “The texture and finish of the laminates chosen is very much in line with the type of kitchen joinery one would expect to see in an appliance of this calibre,” Andy explains.

Committed to the notion of longevity, Andy has always believed that design should be like “wearing a pair of jeans or shoes until they are worn out,” adding, “I feel the same way about permanent and temporary architecture.” By choosing lasting products, colours and textures Andy explains that “we are all responsible to making better choices for the planet by ensuring we wear out what we make before we replace it.” This belief has led Andy to develop a strong working relationship with EGGER and his ForestOne representative, Annette Fanna. “EGGER always keeps us up-to-date with what is new and emerging new trends,” Andy notes.

Aiming to deliver permanent public spaces, Wayne from Toothpicks Creative and Andy from Brand Dimensions showcased how sustainable materials can help produce projects grounded in longevity.

Delivering projects that offer a sense of longevity to their clients, both Wayne and Andy have showcased how confidence in products and suppliers is key to implementing sustainable design. Recognised by ForestOne for their unique explorations of EGGER wood-based décor products, Wayne and Andy will join the preceding winners for the grand prize of ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Program.

Author: Brett Winchester
Photography: Pablo Veiga | https://www.pabloveiga.com/ and Tim Allen | https://www.timallenphoto.net/

Toothpicks Creative | https://www.toothpickscreative.com.au/
Brand Dimensions | https://www.branddimensions.com.au/
EGGER | https://www.egger.com
ForestOne | https://www.forest.one

Lash and iBrow Tech by Will Fernandez from Fernzide and a national retailer project by Rebecca Vulic from X + O have won ForestOne’s November Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Program. Both designers have been entered into the 2023 Grand Prize to win a trip to Interzum in Cologne for the innovative use of EGGER’s wood-based décor products in each of their projects.

Combining self-care with sustainability, both November winners have reinvented retail spaces in which the public can find an escape from the everyday hustle. Aiming to deliver an impactful experience for visitors, the separate works of Will and Rebecca reimagine retail spaces for the future. By working with ForestOne representatives and specifying EGGER wood-based décor products, the finished designs positively contribute towards sustainable buildings in the public space.

Collaborating with the client to establish a brand and create an interior space for two Lash and iBrow Tech stores, Will, Director at Fernzide, specified EGGER materials to honour the client’s aesthetic desires. Following the brief, Will set out to “re-use the existing retail space and retrofit a design that embodies exceptional service,” he explains. Inspired by Picasso’s 1927 painting of a female figure stretched beyond recognition, Will has recreated “organic forms and added a large abstract female figure mural to create a dramatic backdrop with subdued pastel colour tones.” Adding, “the interior also included a built-in bar and lounge chairs for guests to feel welcome.” By employing EGGER Apricot Nude and Caramel Nude décor laminates, Will was able to deliver a bold and calming retail space that effortlessly guides guests around the stores.

As a designer, Will explains that he remains “naturally curious about new materials” and that finding innovative ways to create and elevate his designs drives his passion. “I am especially interested in modern sustainable materials that are of high-quality, durable, provide value and have an authentic natural-looking finish,” he says. “We think it is important to integrate environmentally sustainable principles throughout our work.” After working with ForestOne representative Charles Elia, Will confidently specified the EGGER décor laminates for both stores due to the product’s durability, low-maintenance, aesthetics and negative carbon footprint. Additionally, the benefits of EGGER’s high-recycled content and recyclability was a key factor that helped Will finish his designs with a positive impact.

By employing EGGER Apricot Nude and Caramel Nude décor laminates, Will was able to deliver a bold and calming retail space that effortlessly guides guests around the stores.

Engaged to reinvent the interior experience of the national retailer, Rebecca brought in professional researchers from The Growth Activists to conduct deep research into how to meet customer needs. “We uncovered significant customer insights around health and wellbeing,” Rebecca says, “and this largely shaped the store design strategy across material selections, colour palette and merchandising.” Selecting materials that promote health and wellbeing whilst also creating a feeling of escapism, Rebecca specified EGGER’s range of laminates in Apricot Nude and White Chromix, which “fit our new retail strategy and palette perfectly,” Rebecca says. The brief outlined the requirement of environmental, social and corporate governance, and Rebecca and X+O “responded to this through responsible specification of materials and by incorporating refill stations to reduce packaging in store,” Rebecca explains.

Whilst the clients requested a set of sustainability outcomes, Rebecca also aimed to meet her own requirements. “When specifying products, we look for materials that may have been produced through ethical practices,” Rebecca explains, “and do not pose a threat to human health and wellbeing.” Rebecca was confident that the EGGER laminates met the sustainability requirements of the brief after a consultation with ForestOne representative Annette Fanna, who also helped to source the materials in a specific shade of pink for the design. “Because we required a very durable material in a heavy traffic retail environment, we needed something that would last and not require replacement,” she reflects.

Rebecca was confident that the EGGER laminates met the sustainability requirements of the brief after a consultation with ForestOne representative Annette Fanna, who also helped to source the materials in a specific shade of pink for the design.

Answering the demand for a more sustainable approach towards the design of retail spaces, Will and Rebecca have both chosen to reimagine their separate projects by re-using elements of the established store. Recognised by ForestOne for their creative explorations of EGGER materials and finishes, Will and Rebecca will join the preceding winners for the Grand Prize of ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Program.

Author: Brett Winchester
Photography: Cieran Murphy | https://cieranmurphy.com and Adam Amin | https://www.adamamin.com.au/

Fernzide | https://www.fernzide.com
X + O | http://www.xpluso.co
EGGER | https://www.egger.com
ForestOne | https://www.forest.one

Skin to Soul Clinic designed by Alice Glenane from Space Cubed Design Studio has won ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Competition for October, consequently entering the designer into the 2023 Grand Prize draw to win a trip to Interzum in Cologne. In addition, runner-up Freya Watt from Gray Puksand has been recognised by ForestOne for the innovative use of EGGER’s wood-based décor products in Burnside State High School Multipurpose Hall.

From a wellness clinic to a multipurpose hall, both Alice and Freya’s designs impart a positive message towards conscious and sustainable design within the public space. With attention to detail, both Queensland-based designers have considered how end-users can benefit from employing renewable and recycled content.

An interior designer at Space Cubed Design Studio, Alice headed up the designs for the Skin to Soul Clinic. “The brief was to design a beauty clinic with a focus on raw and holistic wellness, where the client feels grounded and held,” Alice explains. Working with a client that was unafraid to take risks in colour choice and textures, Alice was given the freedom to create a warm and inviting atmosphere through the use of EGGER products. “With this in mind,” she says, “I wanted to specify finishes with a sustainable focus that would perform in a commercial environment.” Alongside EGGER’s Apricot Nude joinery, Alice combined cork flooring, natural timbers and soft curves to imbue the clinic with a natural energy.

Striving to deliver healthier design, Alice and the Space Cubed Design Studio team specified “products that use recycled content, have an end-of-life program and low carbon footprint,” Alice explains. Because of this, Alice was able to use EGGER products confidently, adding that ForestOne’s Kellie Cross “always keeps us up-to-date with the latest product information and specifications details.” Concerned with environmental impact, Alice believes that a designer’s work should be as minimal and intentional as possible, reflecting that “ForestOne and EGGER make it easy for designers to specify sustainable products and, in turn, cultivate positive change in the industry.”

Alongside EGGER’s Apricot Nude joinery, Alice combined cork flooring, natural timbers and soft curves to imbue the clinic with a natural energy.

Exemplifying a similar attitude towards sustainable design is Freya Watt’s Burnside State High School Multipurpose Hall. Freya endeavours to create inspiring places to live, work and study, and “products that enhance this goal [are] the real driver when it comes to making selections,” Freya says. Eager to “understand the process behind the products and companies who make them,” Freya worked with ForestOne to source materials best suited for the space. EGGER materials focus on quality and sustainability, “making them an easy choice on all our projects,” Freya shares. Knowing that the ForestOne representatives understand “their product inside-out”, Freya says she had the ability “to specify the best products for our client’s needs.”

Establishing designs in tune with public space, both Alice and Freya have focused on sustainability and materiality, encouraging others to do the same. “As designers, we influence the built environment,” Freya enthuses, “we can make decisions that will reduce waste and improve sustainably.” Acknowledging the growing need for conscientious design, both projects implement EGGER materials to benefit users and community alike.

Establishing designs in tune with public space, both Alice and Freya have focused on sustainability and materials, encouraging others to do the same.

Author: Brett Winchester
Photography: Cieran Murphy | https://cieranmurphy.com

Space Cubed Design Studio | http://www.spacecubed.com.au
Gray Puksand | https://www.graypuksand.com.au
EGGER | https://www.egger.com
ForestOne | https://www.forest.one

Genevieve Vu at DC8 Studio and Clare Smyth at COBiE Group are the September winners of ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly A&D Trade program. Through the use of EGGER’s sustainable wood-based décor, New Farm State School Learning and Resource Centre and Geebung Special School Learning Centre by COBiE Group and Stockland Armstrong Creek by DC8 Studio exemplify the benefits of a conscious approach towards designing responsibly.

Both New Farm State School Learning and Resource Centre and Geebung Special School Learning Centre and Stockland Armstrong Creek showcase how EGGER products not only meet the needs of the given brief but improve the sustainability outcomes of a project. Across these two very different projects, Genevieve and Clare have contributed to the conversation around responsible design within the public sector. With their chosen materials, the two designers have considered how end users will benefit from the use of renewable and recycled content.

Stockland Armstrong Creek is an active living community for people aged over 55. Genevieve and the DC8 team were tasked with completing the original concept design as well as the finalised interior design and detailing, creating a place that connects to its surrounds. The modular design allows residents to purchase a home and adapt as desired. Inspired by the beachside town of Torquay, on the Bellarine Peninsula in Victoria, Genevieve forged a dark and tempestuous palette. “The joinery selections use EGGER laminates and boards throughout, ranging from a beachy washed tone through to a stormy grey base and matte black shadows,” Genevieve says. In addition to the products’ aesthetic qualities, they “have great wear, impact and scratch resistance which suits the requirement for these buildings,” she says.

Genevieve utilised ForestOne to source products that would best suit the needs of her project, employing the help of ForestOne representatives to inform the material specification. “Kellie Cross [at ForestOne] was a really excellent person to have available during the design phase,” she recalls. “We worked through the subtleties of refining the palette of colour and finish through to the detailing.” Fuelled by an interest in specifying a product that the client was familiar with – as well as respecting the clients’ and her own environmentally-conscious mindset – Genevieve and the DC8 team introduced EGGER throughout the community. “Ethics and sustainability in the selection of materials are also a key priority for the client group and formed part of the project brief, with regular check-ins at most milestones, which makes EGGER a great fit as it has a negative carbon footprint.”

With their chosen materials, the two designers have considered how users of their projects will benefit from the employing of renewable and recycled content.

At New Farm State School Learning and Resource Centre and Geebung Special School Learning Centre, durable and sustainable materials were key in creating a safe space for growing children. Robust finishes are essential in primary education facilities – as Clare says, “kids are notoriously tough on interiors.” Focused on providing her clients with materials that create a healthier environment, Clare also strived to create a visually appealing interior space. “The EGGER range provides a vast arrangement of beautiful finishes, while maintaining the strength required to stand up to the robust environment in learning spaces,” she says. To emphasise a warm and inviting ambience, she selected the Vincenza Oak from the EGGER range of timber, which offered “the perfect backdrop to include the natural timber look with a realistic grain and texture.”

Clare has consciously chosen to work with EGGER not only for its durability but also for its sustainable properties and commitment to innovation. “EGGER’s closed-loop production line that utilises sustainable forestry is something that stood out to us when understanding the products’ origin,” she expresses. Evidently, this project demanded a nuanced and informed response, and as Clare says, EGGER products “give us peace of mind for the responsibility we hold.” Tasked with meeting a tight timeline and dealing with a range of changing factors associated with designing a school, Clare required an in-depth understanding of the specified products, and she also worked with ForestOne Specification Consultant Kellie, who “was always at hand to ensure delivery and availability was not an issue.”

“The EGGER range provides a vast arrangement of beautiful finishes, while maintaining the strength required to stand up to the robust environment in learning spaces,” Clare says.

Both New Farm State School Learning and Resource Centre and Geebung Special School Learning Centre by COBiE Group and Stockland Armstrong Creek by DC8 Studio are characterised by warm, inviting and highly functional spaces. As deserving winners of ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Program, the projects also demonstrate the environmental projects EGGER’s eco-friendly wood-based decors.

Author: Brett Winchester
Photographer: Cieran Murphy | https://cieranmurphy.com

DC8 Studio | https://dc8studio.com
COBiE Group | https://www.cobie.com.au
EGGER | https://www.egger.com
ForestOne | https://www.forest.one

Galvin Residence by Amanda Monaghan at Interior Concepts and Downlands College by Kate Tempest at Thomson Adsett provide positive examples of sustainable material specification. The winners of ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Promotion have used EGGER’s sustainable wood-based products throughout each of their designs – automatically entering them into the 2023 Grand Prize draw to win a trip for two to Interzum, held in Cologne, Germany.

With sustainability in mind, Amanda endeavoured to create a comfortable home for her family. Initially, she considered the prospect of completely rebuilding, but instead chose to renovate and extend. From treating existing timber, reusing removed bricks and installing double-glazed windows to help reduce heating and cooling usage, she repurposed as much as possible. After making the decision to keep the original 1960s house and add an extension, Amanda established a clear divide by showcasing both the historical and modern aspects of the home. Employing sustainable, durable and easy-to-maintain materials, Amanda enlisted the help of ForestOne, whose representatives recommended EGGER materials. With a ForestOne showroom in Victoria, she was able to inspect the material selection and chose from the PerfectSense range, finding a “fantastic solution with their range of carbon-negative EGGER boards.” In turn, the provided materials offered a timeless look whilst being highly functional for a busy household.

Meanwhile, Kate’s Downlands College brief outlined the creation of a warm and welcoming environment that maintained a link to the school’s origins. She designed sustainable additions for the prep to grade four general learning areas, admin building, library, canteen and a multipurpose space for the junior primary cohort. Based in Toowoomba, Downlands College is an independent Catholic coeducational school with origins dating back to 1931. Aspiring to provide the school’s design with a modern uplift, Kate onboarded her own sustainability ethos as part of her approach. Kate has employed EGGER materials that will help students see sustainable design in action. “Using sustainable materials and design can be used as a teaching experience,” Kate enthuses. Working with ForestOne, Kate was able to enact her sustainability values. Promoting the health of students and teachers, Kate’s employment of EGGER materials throughout Downlands College has continued the discussion of specifying responsibly in public spaces.

From providing teachable moments at Downlands College to carbon-negative options for Galvin Residence, the importance of building with sustainable materials in private and public spaces is emphasised by both Amanda and Kate. Recognised by ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly Trade Promotion, both project’s use of EGGER exemplify the art of sustainable specifying.

Employing sustainable, durable and easy-to-maintain materials, Amanda enlisted the help of ForestOne, whose representatives recommended EGGER materials.

Author: Brett Winchester
Photographer: Tim Allen | https://www.timallenphoto.net

Interior Concepts | http://www.interiorconcepts.com.au
ThomsonAdsett | https://thomsonadsett.com
EGGER | https://www.egger.com
ForestOne | https://www.forest.one

Linda Habak Design and Kacey Weber at Fulton Trotter are the July winners of ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly A&D Trade program. Through the use of EGGER’s wood-based décor products, the winning designs showcase quality and consideration for ethical and sustainable design principles.

Each month, ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Program recognises designers whose projects exemplify the specification of sustainable materials, namely, EGGER sustainable wood-based products. Projects from winning designers and architects are automatically put forward into the 2023 Grand Prize draw to win a trip to Interzum, held in Cologne, Germany. In July, Project Harriet by Linda Habak Design (LHD) and Kallangur Satellite Hospital by Kacey Weber at Fulton Trotter were recognised for their Responsible Specification.

For clients who wanted a family home where they could entertain many guests, LHD sourced materials that purposefully fit this brief while utilising “a sustainable design philosophy that encourages decisions at each phase of the design process,” Linda expresses. After attending the 2022 Denfair exhibition in Melbourne, LHD saw first-hand the quality of ForestOne’s range. “We work with suppliers that have open communication and show true transparency with the products they are supplying,” she says. Thoroughly impressed with EGGER’s wood-based products, when choosing materials for Project Harriet, LHD employed EGGER’s “dark grey tones from the Anthracite Mountain Larch wrapped walls that enrich a sense of luxury [and] Brown Tossini Elm, creating an elegant and natural wood grain structure throughout the joinery.”

This selection reflected the studio’s approach to materials. “At LHD we have a genuine respect for the materials used in each project,” Linda remarks. Sustainability and health are at the forefront of LDH’s specification process, she explains. When it came to the EGGER products used for Project Harriet, “we were very impressed by the quality of their products,” Linda enthuses, “the colour selection has been amazing to choose from [and] it is also great to know that EGGER has a passion for their unique wood and its sustainable use.”

After attending the 2022 Denfair exhibition in Melbourne, LHD saw first-hand the quality of ForestOne’s range.

For Kallangur Satellite Hospital, Kacey Weber at Fulton Trotter responded to a brief that required inviting, warm and inclusive spaces, “which we interpreted as creating environments that are homelike in their aesthetic as opposed to a more traditional clinical design,” she explains. Ensuring a timeless design throughout the facility, Kacey’s selection of warm timbers complements the brick interior and muted feature colours that overall catered to the clients’ desired outcome. As only one of seven facilities and with a short timeline, Fulton Trotter embarked on sharing the workload with Conrad Gargett. “In the end, we created the overall design language and material selection together and applied them to each site individually with Conrad Gargett,” says Kacey.

Throughout the design of the satellite hospital, Fulton Trotter worked with a focused mindset of sustainability. “Being community-based projects, they have been in the spotlight, making it important to showcase them as projects that are thoughtfully designed,” notes Kacey. Knowing that responsible specifying comes with an array of choices and price points, Fulton Trotter engaged with ForestOne teams “who were able to answer any curly questions the client threw our way to ensure the products met their specific needs,” Kacey says. ForestOne’s recommendation of EGGER wood-based renewable materials for the interiors meant that “these projects will be the first health facilities in Queensland where the joinery is Net Super E0 with a -13.8 Co2 per squar metre Carbon.”

Ensuring a timeless design throughout the facility, Kacey’s selection of warm timbers complements the brick interior and muted feature colours that overall catered to the clients’ desired outcome.

With the help of ForestOne, Kacey Weber at Fulton Trotter and Linda Habak of Linda Habak Design have contributed to a more sustainable built future. Through purposely selecting EGGER wood-based products, both winners exemplify environmentally thoughtful design.

Author: Brett Winchester
Interior Design: Kacey Weber | https://www.fultontrotter.com.au
Interior Design: Linda Habak | https://www.lindahabakdesign.com.au

EGGER | https://www.egger.com
ForestOne | https://www.forest.one

Committing to the practice of sustainability in design, winners from ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly Trade program, Alexandra Morris of Morris Co Design and Marina Bachas at Cayas and Ward, endeavour to showcase why specifying sustainable materials is imperative to the life cycle of a project. With use of EGGER materials, both designers have contributed to the ongoing dialogue of sustainable materials within the commercial industry.

Focusing on functionality and sustainability, ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly Trade program encourages designers to think eco-consciously when it comes to identifying materials for their builds. When specifying EGGER’s range of sustainable wood products, designers are automatically put forward into the 2023 Grand Prize draw to win a trip to Interzum, held in Cologne, Germany. Alexandra Morris, Founder of Morris Co Design and Marina Bacha at Cayas and Ward have been entered into the prize draw having showcased their use of EGGER’s premium range of wood-based decors and how their separate designs – Gift N News and Parkwood Tavern – reflect the life cycle of materials.

Located within Forestway Shopping centre in Frenchs Forest, Alexandra Morris produces a gift shop newsagency that combines sustainability and aesthetic design. By working closely with ForestOne representative Annette Fanna, Alexandra found the right products that met her design requirements. “We specified EGGER, firstly, because the colour palette worked in perfectly with our scheme and, secondly, because of the sustainability factor,” Alexandra says. With a focus on creating a split between a typical newsagency and gift store, Alexandra’s material choices help to visually delineate the difference between these two sections. “Warm oak timbers have been contrasted against dark charcoal and wicker pendants were added to soften the overall affect.”

Working with a variety of national retail rollouts, Alexandra is constantly searching to specify materials that are durable, cost effective, sustainable and offer a wide availability of range. “The work we do has a very quick turnaround from the start to end of construction,” says Alexandra. “Material choice is key in ensuring that the project gets delivered on time and within a budget.” However, Alexandra’s fast-paced work does not negate the use of sustainable materials. “ForestOne are all about environmental sustainability and responsible sourcing,” Alexandra supplies “Working with their products means you are making a good choice for the environment.”

Focusing on functionality and sustainability, ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly Trade program encourages designers to think eco-consciously when it comes to identifying materials for their builds.

Before beginning the design of the Parkwood Tavern, Marina Bacha at Cayas and Ward knew that working with an already established building of 20 years would require attentive consideration when it came to material selections. Through the refurbishment of Parkwood Tavern, Marina set forth with particular intentions. “The design rationale was to introduce a splash of forest green to enhance the indoor-outdoor connection,” Marina says. “The intent was to create a fresh and welcoming entertainment space for a diverse demographic.” With the intention that Parkwood Tavern would be used by young families, university students and hospital workers alike, the design choices encompassed many different tastes whilst motioning to the history of the tavern. “We always try to keep as much as we can from the original architecture and to create a design that complements the existing building,” Marina notes. “Instead of demolishing the bulkheads in the terrace, we decided to create interesting arched openings, which formed a focal point for the new glazed doors.” Additionally, the finished design kept over 90 per cent of the existing ceilings and added feature elements to bring about a refreshed modern appearance to the tavern.

Choosing to work with ForestOne due to their extensive range of EGGER products, Marina explains that they were “instantly drawn to it for its beautiful range of colours, textures and realistic timber looking laminates.” Throughout Parkwood Tavern, Marina used EGGER laminate finishes. With the understanding that EGGER wood-products come from “100 per cent legal and controlled sources,” Marina adds that her choices were complemented by EGGER’s range of colours. “Apricot Nude, that works perfectly with our colour palette, along with the Natural Hamilton Oak and black timber frame,” Marina explains. Furthermore, the Parkwood Tavern was designed with the understanding that most hospitality venues become obsolete in a matter of years. This means that Marina’s empathetic material selection was done with deliberation. “We must be thoughtful of the finishes we specify for our designs,” Marina says. “The main aspects we need to consider are durability and the life cycle of the materials we use.”

Choosing reliable and ethically sourced materials, both designers have contributed to the conversation of sustainably focused designs for the commercial sphere.

With the help of ForestOne, Alexandra Morris of Morris Co Design and Marina Bacha at Cayas and Ward have created functional and durable commercial spaces with EGGER products. Choosing reliable and ethically sourced materials, both designers have contributed to the conversation of sustainably focused designs for the commercial sphere.

Author: Brett Winchester
Photography: Pablo Veiga | https://www.pabloveiga.com and Cieran Murphy | https://cieranmurphy.com
Interior Design: Alexandra Morris | http://morriscodesign.com.au
Interior Design: Marina Bacha | https://www.cayasandward.com.au

Continuously encouraging the use of innovative, sustainable materials, ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly Trade competition not only promotes responsible materiality but encourages an ethos of designing for a more sustainable future. Every month, two winners are drawn and go into the Grand Prize draw for a trip for two to INTERZUM 2023 in Cologne, Germany.

Sustainability is a central design challenge, and May winners of the Specified Responsibly Trade competition Claudia Jarjoura and Edith Makra’s use of EGGER products showcases how the right materials are key to reducing environmental impact of a project.

Claudia Jarjoura, Director of Jarjoura Design, collaborated with Swerve Design and Design Delta Architects to create a tri-level, state-of-the-art penthouse crafted with materials by EGGER. Refreshing the outdated interiors, Jarjoura Design created a sophisticated series of interconnecting spaces that exude an overarching feeling of comfort. Of the choice of materials, “we specified EGGER not only for its highly sustainable, eco-conscious properties, but also for its beautifully coloured and textured selection of products,” Claudia says. “For the casual lounge area, for example, we specified their Brown Tossini elm laminate, which has a rich timber look hue and lovely warm timber texture.” In addition, the matte grey of the Dark Steel laminate was chosen for its “interesting nuances of light and shade. Both of these products complemented our design in a very elegant, contemporary way.”

Understanding the social and environmental impact is key to the studio’s approach to material specification. Through this focus, the designers eschew materials that do not demonstrate an environmental awareness. “We feel we have a responsibility to play a role in preventing the depletion or damage of our natural resources and environment by making informed choices, so together we can achieve a better world for us and future generations,” Claudia reflects. Working with ForestOne to meet these stringent specification goals, she was introduced to EGGER wood-based materials by Area Manager Jelena Matic. “She explained in detail how the product was conceived, the methodology and objectives behind EGGER in preserving our forests as much as possible, through the recycling of timber and its by-products to produce green energy, as opposed to using fossil energy on their production line,” Claudia recalls. “She also explained how the company implements logistical strategies to minimise their carbon footprint, avoiding transporting timber by truck over long distance to sawmills.”

Working with ForestOne to meet these stringent specification goals, she was introduced to EGGER wood-based materials by Area Manager Jelena Matic.

Similarly, for Edith Makra, Senior Designer at RFA Architects, selecting the material palette for a project is a crucial part of the design process. Despite having never used EGGER products before, she recalls seeing the samples in the office and recognising it was an “opportunity to use a product that was sustainably certified.” With an array of products to choose from, ForestOne representative Annette Fanna helped Edith to home in on the materials that suited her needs best. Working with ForestOne in this way provided confidence in the selection – “it is good to have peace of mind that what you are specifying actually works,” Edith says. “As designers, it is good to know where your products come from and that they have a proven sustainability. Clients will look to you for guidance and expect you to put your best foot forwards. So, it is important to put forward products that you believe in.”

As specifying responsibly becomes increasingly important and emphasised in both the private and public spheres, architects and designers have a duty to deliver on sustainability for their clients. “When you know a project is going to be around for 10 years, you do not want everything going to landfill. So, using products that are natural, as much as possible, is high on our list,” says Edith. Trusting EGGER to deliver materials that fit her brief, Edith was able to design with complete confidence. Knowing that sustainability practices will take time to implement across the industry, she continues to push forwards in hopes that others will follow. “I look forward to seeing sustainability inherent in the way we design, not a catch phrase or seen as a part of a design methodology, but just the way it is, with every design and every build.”

Trusting EGGER to deliver materials that fit her brief, Edith was able to design with complete confidence.

Working with EGGER laminates, panels, worktops and finishes, both the May winners of the Specified Responsibility trade competition exemplify how these products support the delivery of environmentally friendly projects.

Author: Brett Winchester
Photography: Pablo Veiga | https://www.pabloveiga.com
Interior Design: Jarjoura Design | https://www.jarjouradesign.com.au
Interior Design: Edith Makra of RFA Architects | https://rfaarchitects.com.au

Swerve Design | http://www.swervedesign.com.au
Design Delta Architects | https://www.designdelta.com.au

EGGER | https://www.egger.com
ForestOne | https://www.forest.one

ForestOne’s Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Competition asks designers and architects to consider a product’s lifetime energy use when specifying. Focusing on this ambition, the winning designs of Sandberg Schoffel Architects and Outline Design Office highlight how EGGER decorative wood products helped to fulfil the architects’ eco-conscious ethos.

Achieving a design vision without compromising on sustainability is a central challenge for architects and designers. The Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Competition recognises those who are rising to the challenge, with specifiers of EGGER sustainable wood products automatically submitted into the 2023 Grand Prize draw to win a trip to Interzum, held in Cologne, Germany. Actualised through the use of EGGER’s range of premium wood-based décors, Sandberg Schoffel Architects and Outline Design Office’s projects – a residential new build and a premium spec suite – showcased the versatility of the material.

Michael Schoffel, Director at Sandberg Schoffel Architects.

When it comes to designing sustainably, in addition to emphasising reuse of existing materials, the team at Sandberg Schoffel Architects “look for materials that have a low carbon input in their manufacture and supply and then a low maintenance regime for their lifetime,” Michael Sandberg, Director, declares. In the case of Pavilion House, a lightweight time-framed home based around passive, energy-efficient principles, “we specified the EGGER Natural Kendal Oak Reproduction Laminate on 12mm Particleboard sheet for our ceilings,” he says. The building has been designed to close into zones for heating and cooling, while raised ceilings allow for solar access and natural ventilation flow. Seeking a product that was prefinished and low maintenance, “we also liked this material as, once it is installed, we don’t need any further finishing – so no sanding, painting or scaffolds in the space, which speeds up the build process.”

When it comes to designing sustainably, in addition to emphasising reuse of existing materials, the team at Sandberg Schoffel Architects “look for materials that have a low carbon input in their manufacture and supply and then a low maintenance regime for their lifetime,” Michael Sandberg, Director, declares.

Where Pavilion House demonstrates a commitment to responsible specification in a residential project, Outline Design Office’s L20 Spec Suite Riverside Centre showcases a similarly conscious approach in a commercial context. Responding to the brief, “each spec suite was designed to have its own unique design aesthetic,” Jacinta Condon, Director at Outline Design Office, explains. Looking for a consistency in finishes, Jacinta was drawn to EGGER for to the “sophisticated range of timber-look laminates with matching edging that is seamless.”

Sustainability measures are integral to Outline Design Office’s approach. “We are always seeking ways to ‘do better’, and the EGGER products we used supported these requirements well,” Jacinta says. “[ForestOne Queensland Representative] Kellie Cross, was incredibly helpful in providing product information, samples and specification details,” she recalls. “In talking to the representatives, you also get to know more of their sustainability initiatives that aren’t necessarily advertised.” This is key to Jacinta and her team’s excitement about the prospect of a more sustainable future in the world of design. As she expresses, “sustainability has become a much broader social issue that is seeing all industries challenging themselves to reduce their carbon footprint on the planet.”

“We are always seeking ways to ‘do better’, and the EGGER products we used supported these requirements well,” Jacinta says.

In specifying with ForestOne & EGGER decorative products, Sandberg Schoffel Architects and Outline Design Office have created sophisticated, sustainable spacesh. Aiming to both minimise its own carbon footprint and support the industry to do the same, ForestOne has aided the designers in their exploration of finding the right material to meet their sustainability aspirations – a worthy goal celebrated by the Specified Responsibly A&D Trade Competition.

Author: Brett Winchester
Photography: Pablo Veiga | https://www.pabloveiga.com and Cieran Murphy | https://cieranmurphy.com
Interior Design: Outline Design Office | https://www.outlinedesignoffice.com.au/studio
Architecture: Sandberg Schoffel Architects | https://www.sandbergschoffel.com.au

EGGER | https://www.egger.com
ForestOne | https://www.forest.one