Glenfort Timber Engineering has been recognised by the WAI judging panel with a special award for its creative and innovative use of home-grown timber in construction.
The company has played a pivotal role in some of Ireland’s most significant timber projects, including the award-winning Beyond the Trees experience in Avondale, Co. Wicklow. For this landmark attraction, Glenfort engineered Sitka spruce glulam structures – the first of their kind made from home-grown spruce – showcasing the potential of Irish-grown mass timber as a sustainable alternative to fossil-based materials.
Other standout projects in Glenfort’s portfolio include the use of oak in the construction of Hogs Head Golf Club in Waterville, Co. Kerry, and the Kildare Village Entrance Building, while Douglas fir was the key material in the restoration of the chapel at Belcamp House, Balgriffin, Co. Dublin.
Marking another milestone, Glenfort recently designed, manufactured and installed its own state-of-the-art glulam factory. The facility features nine portal frames spanning 30 metres wide and 50 metres long, built using over 140m³ of glulam timber – effectively locking in 114 tonnes of CO₂. Compared to an equivalent steel structure, the project represents a significant step forward in sustainable construction. Finished with insulated panels and heated by timber waste, the building demonstrates Glenfort’s commitment to innovation and sustainability at every level.
Speaking about the award, a spokesperson for Glenfort said:
“We are proud to be recognised for our contribution to the growth of home-grown timber in Ireland. This award reflects not only the quality of our engineering and design but also our dedication to sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of construction.”
With continued investment in research, advanced technologies, and sustainable practices, Glenfort Timber Engineering is positioning itself at the forefront of Ireland’s timber construction sector. From landmark public attractions to bespoke architectural commissions, the company is shaping a future where timber plays a central role in modern, environmentally conscious building design.