Melbourne's new National Tennis Centre opened in January this year is, according to experts, the world's best purpose-built tennis training facility.
That’s a big call; but elite players and the general public would not disagree. Part of the attraction is undoubtedly the architecture and the way in which Melbourne’s sport-loving public can utilise the new development and move between the training facilities and Rod Laver Arena.
Britton Timbers was chosen to supply the timber for the outdoor decking and furniture in the connecting walkway between the new warm-up courts and Rod Laver Arena. Britton’s project account manager for the National Tennis Centre job, Paul Cauchi, said the job posed some challenges:
"The walkway area had to withstand heavy pedestrian traffic and yet look good over the long term. We worked closely with the building contractors installing the walkways for Watpac, Casello Constructions, and Jackson Architecture to come up with the right Australian timber for the job. We like to suggest timber solutions wherever appropriate, and in this case we recommended and ultimately supplied above ground class one durability Blackbutt from the forests of New South Wales."
Britton’s also supplied material the public doesn’t notice – the structural timbers that support the decking on the aerial walkway. Mixed Species NSW F27 hardwoods were selected for the joists on the steel structure. The seating along the walkway has also drawn accolades from the public. For this, Britton Timbers supplied specialty machined, round Blackbutt dowel.
Britton Timbers is recognised as having one of Australia’s largest ranges of certified local and imported timbers, with warehousing and distribution facilities in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. International orders are handled by Britton Timbers International.