Eric Tweedale Stadium in Granville, NSW wins the 2021 Australian Timber Design Awards

01 December 2021

David Rowlinson

The stadium’s design was inspired by the connection to the local environment and history of the Cumberland Plains. Aboriginal architecture is referenced in the 'V' shaped cantilevered roof beams. The glulam roof cantilevers over the seating, creating a simple yet striking and beautiful form. 

A panel of five judges was especially impressed by the warmth and the earthy glow that the timber creates, providing a space welcoming for all communities while connecting to its current sporting application. The stadium includes a 760-seat grandstand with change rooms, multipurpose rooms, first-floor function space, commercial kitchen, and outdoor viewing deck. 

The roof structure design was very ambitious – a first in Australia, representing an impressive achievement in timber engineering. The main cantilever spans 8.5 m over the spectator's seating, 13.7 m beams span the multipurpose area and a double cantilevered roof frame at each end of the roof structure. The entire roof slopes west and is supported by 26 timber glulam columns.

Design: DWP Australia and Northrop

Photography: Brett Boardman

David Rowlinson

David hails from Lancashire, England and has lived in Australia since 1994. He studied Architecture at Sheffield University and also has an MBA from Macquarie University and a Master of Marketing from UNSW. Prior to joining Planet Ark in 2016 David was Marketing Manager then CEO of a major Sydney-based manufacturer of modular carpets used in all commercial building applications. His proudest achievement was the development of an industry-leading environmental sustainability agenda, including the unique Earthplus product reuse program.