Woodland Design Studio Scoops Three Awards

Following the success of being shortlisted in the International Structural Engineering Awards in 2008, The Woodland Design Studio has scooped three awards in the Waverley Design Awards.

After the awards ceremony, Waverley's planning portfolio holder, Councillor Adam Taylor-Smith, said: "Once again we have seen some truly outstanding examples of design being entered for this year’s Waverley Design Awards. Fantastic design is about more than looking good – it enhances its immediate environment, fulfils its purpose and stands the test of time. It also plays a part in contributing towards making Waverley one of the most attractive boroughs in Surrey."

Stephen Owen, Cranleigh’s Designer in Residence said: “Having seen my design and project realised, it is quite humbling to now see it recognised in this way.”

Sustainable Design & Construction Award:

The building in its simplicity embodies the very idea of sustainable design. The majority of materials that the building is constructed from are locally sourced, including the Sweet Chestnut logs and Douglas Fir cladding.Furthermore, the building was physically constructed by Stephen Owen and local tradesmen. The building is heating and hot water are provided by a highly efficient wood pellet boiler which is, in theory, carbon neutral through the principles of carbon offset. The fuel is locally sourced. Blown recycled newspaper insulates the thick walls and is so thermally efficient that the heating is rarely used.

New Building Award:

Before the original workshop was completed in 2008, disaster struck in the form of a devastating fire which destroyed virtually the entire building except for the concrete foundations.  However, with the determination of all involved, the new and slightly redesigned building was completed in 2010. The judges felt that the building should be promoted to all schools in terms of how to create an exciting, sustainable and cost effective building.

People's Choice: Award:

The Woodland Design Studio achieved an unprecedented 84% of the public vote.
Stephen Owen comments finally, “I want to thank the school for endorsing my idea and for their support as I saw this project through,” explaining that Adam Hieke of Nye Saunders Architects in Godalming and Rob Barnes of Thomason’s Structural Engineers of Guildford were "great to work with as their experience was invaluable. I would also like to thank Waverley for this award and hope that it will help push the boundaries of new design in the sustainable build sector – a lot can be achieved with local materials and hard work.”