Architecture students tour Kirkwood Timber Frame factory

Kirkwood Timber Frame was delighted to welcome 10 architecture students to its factory in Sauchen, Aberdeenshire to support them in their studies.

The students took a tour of the facilities and talked to staff about the production process.

As final year architecture students at Robert Gordon University (RGU), this particular cohort opted to enrol for the constructive elective module – led by Lecturer in Architectural Technology and Architecture Jamie Yorkston.

Jamie said: “This module is designed to allow our budding architects to explore construction detailing through hands-on experience. It focuses on creating 1:1 wall panels which supports a deeper understanding of how materials come together, how we can refine construction methods and how these elements translate into real-world building practices.

“There are three groups, each tasked with replicating an existing local project and carefully reconstructing a section of its wall construction. Part of the challenge is to source the materials, engaging directly with contractors and suppliers to mirror real-world industry practices. A key aspect of the project is a strong focus on craftsmanship, ensuring that the panels are not just technically accurate but also demonstrate high-quality construction techniques.

Jaydn Walker, Part II Architecture Student, Co-President of 57°10 Architecture Society and Student School Officer added: “We are incredibly grateful to Kirkwood Timber Frame for allowing us to visit the factory facility and to work with its team, witnessing the precision engineered fabrication of its timber frame structures.”

Material donation

As well as hosting the university, Kirkwood Timber Frame has donated a range of materials which is enabling the university to build up a stock library within the architecture and built environment school. This will provide future students with a useful hands-on resource to better understand construction materials, their properties, and how they come together in real-world applications.

The final 1:1 models created by the students will be showcased at the Scott Sutherland School’s End of Year Show – on 1 May – where students will highlight both the construction process and potential improvements in material choice and assembly methods.

Kirkwood Timber Frame said it is passionate about supporting young talent looking to forge a career in construction, and said it is refreshing to see the future architects taking such a keen interest in timber fame and MMC.

Timber Frame Kits – Kirkwood Timber Frame