Imagine enjoying a brew in the tranquil surrounds of Byron Bay’s Arts & Industrial Estate.
It’s a tantalising prospect but now a reality thanks to the award-winning ‘Big Shed’ designed by Harley Graham Architects and constructed by AGS Construction.
The Design Brief
Stone & Wood Brewing Company, proudly ‘Born and Raised in Byron Bay,’ produces 1 million tonnes – that’s a lot of beer – and the shed, which has a 4000 sqm footprint and an 11-metre apex, drove the design brief. Harley Graham, director of Harley Graham Architects, explains:
“Our brief was to create a place large enough to produce a significant amount of beer.”
“We were also guided by the need to create a destination for locals and tourists, a place where the community could gravitate.”
Dressing up the ‘Big Shed’
The project, which received a Commercial Award for Regional Architecture from the Australian Institute of Architects NSW Chapter, was split into two parts – the first involved the construction of the shed and the second, saw local carpenters clad part of the exterior with iron bark and also camphor laurel. This will eventually fade to a silvery hue in time.
The design re-works the notion of the Australian Shed – a steel and timber structure that deconstructs as it opens to the north where the courtyard defines the entry, and greenery climbs the vertical timber screen.
Supporting local – The Way It Should Be
One of the key elements of Stone & Wood’s philosophy is its focus on ‘community spirit’ believing the true role of the brewery is to create a hub for the local community – and this clear focus underpinned the timber sourcing requirements.
The use of locally sourced and recycled timber is one of the standout features of the brewery. The Camphor Laurel was supplied by Wooden Anchor and was used for vertical screening and custom-made furniture to add warmth and character to the brewery.
Wooden Anchor is a family-owned mill with deep roots in the Byron Bay community. They specialise in Camphor Laurel, sourced from sustainably grown forests local to the northern New South Wales community.
Camphor Laurel is considered a weed in New South Wales – but it is the perfect choice for outdoor furniture and joinery given its durability and resistance to termites and decay.
In addition, blackbutt timber was supplied for flooring, stairs, and handrails. Blackbutt is a highly durable and hard-wearing hardwood that is able to withstand wear and tear of everyday use – perfect for a brewery!
And finally, recycled iron bark was used for the external cladding of the building, providing a unique and rustic look that perfectly complements the surrounding natural environment.
Provided by Kennedy’s, the iron bark is known for its strength and durability. Kennedy’s are specialists in recycled and reclaimed timbers, giving a second life to timber that would otherwise be discarded. This showcasing once and for all that timber is the ultimate renewable.
Conclusion
The Stone and Wood Brewing Company’s “Big Shed” is a stunning example of how sustainable building practices and locally sourced materials can be used to create a visually striking and functional space. The use of timber created a warm and inviting environment that reflects the company’s values of sustainability, community, and identity. The result is a state-of-the-art brewery and tasting room that seamlessly blends with the natural surroundings and industrial heritage of the area – the way it should be!
