09 July 2025
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Smarter, Greener, Faster.

Constructing Avila College's Student Resource Hub.

A first for Newpol, this project uses mass timber to deliver a vibrant, forward-thinking and sustainable space for the next generation of students.

 

We’re proud to be back on site at Avila College, delivering their new Student Resource Hub—a dynamic, modern, and sustainable learning environment designed to support collaboration, connection, and the school’s evolving educational needs.

This project is a significant milestone for Newpol—it’s our first building constructed using mass timber. We love to see architects embracing sustainable alternatives, and we’re grateful to Law Architects for the opportunity to help bring this vision to life. It’s a great example of what’s possible when innovative design and modern construction methods come together to deliver smarter, greener outcomes.

Mass timber, made from engineered products like CLT (Cross-Laminated Timber) and GLT (Glue-Laminated Timber)—both of which we used on this project—is rapidly transforming the construction industry. Mass timber has now become a preferred structural solution across a wide range of building types—from schools and offices to sports arenas and multi-level residential buildings.

We used 33 tonnes of timber columns and beams, with each floor slab weighing approximately 2.5 tonnes. The use of mass timber significantly reduced the structural build time from two months to just 18 days, with the installation completed in around 10 days—a remarkable achievement. Thanks to prefabrication and off-site manufacturing, the construction process has been far more efficient, keeping us on schedule for a December 2025 completion.

“Other than the concrete slab we’re standing on and the precast panels for the lift, the entire structure is this beautiful mass timber,” explains Contract Administrator Kaylee Ellis. “We’ve also incorporated a steel staircase that will remain exposed, showcasing the beautiful timber.”
“Other than the concrete slab... and the precast panels for the lift, the entire structure is this beautiful mass timber.”

One of the biggest advantages of mass timber is the positive environmental impact. Timber is a renewable resource that stores carbon rather than emitting it. By constructing using mass timber, we reduce the embodied carbon in the building. As demand for eco-friendly construction grows, timber has become one of the most effective materials for decarbonising the built environment.

Beyond its environmental benefits, mass timber also supports human wellbeing. Global research shows that timber buildings improve mood, concentration, and productivity for occupants. The natural look and feel of timber help create a calm, grounded atmosphere—something that’s especially important in a learning environment.

Delivering this meaningful community project has been a truly rewarding experience, made possible by the strong collaboration and open communication throughout. We're grateful to Avila College for once again placing their trust in us and proud to contribute to a project that will benefit the school community for years to come.

“We were fortunate to have a strong relationship with the college and architects from the start,” says Kaylee. “Open communication made it easier to manage expectations, and the team has been incredibly accommodating. It’s been such a great collaborative effort.”
“We were fortunate to have a strong relationship with the college and architects from the start... It’s been such a great collaborative effort.”

At Newpol, we believe in Constructing Our Future, and projects like this reflect our ongoing commitment to delivering spaces that support generations to come.