Thursday, November 13, 2025
The Structural Timber Association (STA) has launched a new initiative aimed at educating housebuilders about the benefits of timber frame construction. The ‘Timber Frame Learning Journey’ is a collaborative project between the STA and Future Homes Hub, which aims to guide developers in building homes that are not only faster but also greener. The initiative was launched in Scotland, a region where timber frame construction already forms the backbone of the housing sector.
The UK government’s ambitious goal of constructing 1.5 million homes over the next five years has highlighted the urgent need for faster, more sustainable housebuilding solutions. Industry leaders are calling for the swift adoption of proven methods that will enable the UK to meet this target without compromising on environmental goals. The Timber Frame Learning Journey addresses this need by showing developers how timber frame construction is already helping to accelerate sustainable housing delivery, particularly in Scotland.
Scotland as a Leader in Sustainable Timber Frame Construction
Scotland has long been a leader in the use of timber frame construction, with over 92% of homes in the region built using this method. The Timber Frame Learning Journey initiative brings developers face-to-face with Scotland’s high-performing timber frame housing sector, offering them the opportunity to learn from the region’s success. Major sponsors, including West Fraser, PEFC UK, Hundegger, and Swedish Wood, back the initiative, which brings practical knowledge and insights directly from the supply chain.
Andrew Orriss, CEO of the STA, emphasised the importance of the initiative: “Scotland is years ahead when it comes to building homes that are low-carbon, efficient and delivered at pace. The learning journey was about showing that it’s possible and already happening. We wanted home builders to see for themselves how timber frame isn’t a theory, it’s already the backbone of faster, greener house building elsewhere in the UK.”
The Learning Journey Experience
Over the course of two days, delegates visited the entire timber supply chain, from sustainably managed forests to sawmills, engineered timber factories, and live housing sites. The initiative demonstrated how timber frame construction supports the Future Homes Standard, offering a scalable solution to meet housing targets while adhering to climate goals. Developers were shown first-hand how timber frame is already proven at scale in Scotland and how it can be replicated across the UK.
The Timber Frame Learning Journey highlighted key advantages of using timber frame construction, including:
Industry Support for Sustainable Construction
Richard Lankshear, Programme Director at Future Homes Hub, spoke about the importance of knowledge sharing: “The Future Homes Standard can only be delivered successfully by sharing knowledge and lessons learned. These learning journeys showcase all-electric, low-carbon homes and the techniques to build them at scale.”
Simon Woods, Sales, Marketing and Logistics Director for West Fraser Europe, highlighted the company’s role in supporting sustainable construction: “Manufacturing OSB for over 40 years in Inverness, Scotland, SterlingOSB Zero plays an integral part as a structural panel within timber frame construction as well as being certified net carbon negative, ensuring our commitment to reducing our environmental impact. We’re delighted to support this initiative.”
John Kirby, Executive Director at PEFC UK, added: “Using timber sourced from a responsibly managed forest, such as a PEFC-certified woodland, helps to maximise carbon storage and support climate goals. Certified timber is central to sustainable construction. This learning journey shows how responsible sourcing underpins the whole timber frame approach.”
Innovation and Efficiency Through Technology
The initiative also featured contributions from Hundegger, with Chris Osborne, Sales Manager UK & Ireland, noting the role of advanced timber processing: “Advanced timber processing unlocks quality and scale. We’re backing the Timber Frame Learning Journey to show SME builders the technology making it possible.”
Swedish Wood’s Stephen King praised the international focus on timber construction: “Timber construction is not just sustainable, it’s efficient and modern. Sweden’s commitment is mirrored in Scotland, and we’re excited to support UK progress.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Learning Journey
The Timber Frame Learning Journey initiative is set to continue, with more trips planned to educate developers on how to build more sustainable homes. By engaging with the timber supply chain, builders are given the tools they need to adopt low-carbon, efficient construction practices that can scale up housing delivery.
The programme is supported by key players across the entire timber supply chain, including Forestry & Land Scotland, John Gordon & Son, James Jones & Sons, Kirkwood Timber Frame, Kirkwood Homes, Bancon Construction, and Cala Homes.
Developers interested in exploring timber frame construction and its benefits are encouraged to register for future trips and learn more about sustainable housing options.
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Tags: Structural Timber Association (STA), sustainable house building, timber frame construction, timber frame housing, timber frame supply chain, UK Housebuilding, woodworking and processing
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