Timber iQ October - November 2017 // Issue: 34 | Page 3

EDITOR'S NOTE Be inspired L ately, I can happily say that my inbox is being bombarded with timber construction projects from far and wide – locally and abroad. Even in Africa! Recently I’ve been receiving lots of stunning, really inspiring, case studies – from Kenya especially. Who knew? Even projects that are happening just down the road from our offices in Bedfordview too. Check out our project articles to get some ideas of just what is possible with timber, whether its commercially or residentially. HQ in Bedfordview is a multi-functional commercial space with a touch of timber to round off its sleek, modern look (page 14). While Passage Delessert, located in Paris, boasts contemporary housing units that stand out in the busy city streets (page 18). In Seoul, South Korea, a chapel in Gapyong is literally providing light and life to its congregation (page 26). Hopefully this means that at least some of the many misconceptions in the marketplace about using timber as a construction material have been dispelled. It’s easy to come up with excuses why not to use timber, but I think we need to start looking at why timber could be the right choice. It’s not just aesthetically pleasing with its natural look and feel, but it’s also sustainable (which may come as a surprise to some). Unfortunately, many people are simply not educated about timber in South Africa, which still leads to a preference for bricks and mortar as building materials. Timber iQ investigates timber as a sustainable building material on page 44. Check it out. We also look at what is new in terms of apps and technology. What is out there that could help you? Stay up to date – it could make your life much easier (page 34). Speaking of staying up to date, we also have a feature on the state of skills and training in the industry on page 50. Our country has a problem with this and unfortunately our industry is not immune to the struggle of finding (and keeping) skilled people on site. What are the risks of inadequate skills and training and what can be done? Read more on page 50. In addition, our design feature in this edition looks at timber doors and windows (page 38). What is happening in your timber world? Send us your projects, your Ilana Koegelenberg news, your inspirations. After all Editor [email protected] – this is your magazine. Cape Town: [phone] Knysna: [phone] [email protected] www.rarewoods.co.za We supply a wide range of decking products Suppliers of South Africa’s widest range of local and imported timbers – from Ash to Zebrano, and everything in between A market-leading stockholding of 165 species and 8000m 3 of stock Operating for over 30 years, with branches in Cape Town and Knysna Extensive showrooms, full of inspiration Offering friendly, knowledgeable, passionate and professional service Attractive discounts available to trade and bulk customers A treasure trove for wood lovers! WE SHIP NATIONWIDE FOR BULK ORDERS RareWoodsSA @RareWoodsSA