Designed with strength, functionality and sustainability in mind, the warehouse structure combines engineered timber elements to meet the demands of a modern industrial facility. GLT columns and long-span roof trusses form the primary structural frame, supporting CLT wall panels and a CLT-framed internal office. This approach enabled large, open warehouse bays without the need for heavy steel sections or load-intensive concrete panels.

The use of CLT for the warehouse end walls and partial-height side walls provided a streamlined solution that reduced structural complexity while supporting a clean, modern aesthetic. Internally, the CLT office features fully exposed surfaces—creating a warm, biophilic environment for occupants that’s rarely seen in industrial settings.

One of the key advantages of using mass timber was its significantly lighter weight compared to conventional materials. This reduced the pressure on foundations and simplified coordination with the concrete footings and plinths used to anchor the structure. Timber-to-timber and timber-to-steel connections were made using Rothoblaas fixings and custom steel bracketry, ensuring a durable and high-performing build without compromising on design intent.

Mass timber also offered the flexibility to meet the building’s 10-bay, wide-span layout, with GLT members sized and fabricated to accommodate structural loads without adding unnecessary bulk. Insulated roof panels by Kingspan were paired with the airtight and thermally efficient CLT elements, enhancing the building’s overall performance without additional linings or complexity.

This project demonstrates that mass timber is not only viable for industrial-scale construction—but can deliver meaningful gains in simplicity, strength, and long-term usability for developers looking beyond traditional construction methods.

The challenge of a vertical extension onto Level 8’s pre-existing concrete slab terrace, was its inability to support an additional load from a traditional steel and concrete structure.

To overcome the weight challenge, a steel grillage was used to transfer the lightweight CLT structure directly onto the columns below. The high load floor in the free-standing function pavilion uses a 175mm thick 5-layer XLAM CLT panel. While all remaining floors consist of 5-layer 145mm panels, with all roof panels using 5-layer 130mm panels. Over 10m high, full height panels were used for the three-story stair walls, with these being erected prior to lowering in the landings and XLAM AirStairs.

Large glue laminated (GLT) beams that span the 11m over the function pavilion and carry the load of the raking XLAM roof, were constructed from Tasmanian Oak hardwood and were manufactured and supplied by Hyne Timber.

In total, over 150 CLT panels, constructed from untreated radiata pine boards, were used throughout this project to add the free-standing function pavilion, two interconnecting stair wells and new education facilities to the existing building.

The decision to use 100% chain of custody certified Australian timber was intrinsically tied to the company’s values, which focused on supporting local production and sustainable practices. This choice aligned perfectly with the community of Maryborough, where timber is a vital source of employment.

The selection of engineered timber was driven by multiple factors, including sustainability with sequestered carbon, construction efficiency in terms of speed and cost, local sourcing for regional job creation, and the material’s lighter weight, which minimised foundation work on the existing site.

The aesthetic aspect of engineered timber was not overlooked, as selected areas of XLAM CLT and Hyne GLT were sanded and sealed post-installation to allow their natural and sustainable beauty to be exposed. This contributed to the warm and natural appearance of the building, enhancing occupant well-being while also aligning with the project’s commitment to sustainability and visual integrity.