Timber Construction Conference: 15 September 2026

Timber Construction Conference, held on 15 September 2026 at Future Africa, University of Pretoria, explored the theme “Connected by Timber: From Forests to Future Cities.” The event participants included researchers, students, industry leaders, architects, designers, engineers, policymakers and public-sector partners committed to expanding timber’s contribution to South Africa’s built environment.

Led primarily by the York Timbers Chair in Wood Structural Engineering at the University of Pretoria, and presented in collaboration with the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), the conference created a practical forum for dialogue, knowledge exchange and collaboration. Participants examined how forestry resources, advanced research, laboratory expertise, industrial capability and market adoption could work together to shape resilient, low-carbon and liveable future cities.

The programme encouraged connections across the full timber value chain, translating innovation into real-world opportunities for construction, manufacturing and policy. In the afternoon, delegates joined one of several parallel workshops.

Rubio Monocoat was invited once again to participate during the day, presenting an on-site demonstration display and colour samples. Rubio Monocoat’s presence allowed delegates to explore eco-friendly timber finishes first-hand.