As DesignBUILD closes, it is apparent that there is an increasing demand for innovation and inspiration in the building industry, demonstrated by almost a 20% increase in visitor numbers to the trade only design, building and construction expo.

Held at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre from 11th to 13th May, the DesignBUILD Sydney expo brought together industry leading experts, exhibitors and visitors.

Innovation Alley showcased the top 40 brand new products, while the VEK Power Tools Pavilion had a constant supply of trades ready to test and trial the latest tool offering. The Performax Builder’s Bar was also a huge success, particularly on Thursday’s late night opening and Friday lunch time.

Danielle Fischer, Exhibition Director, said DesignBUILD 2011 had exceeded all expectations.

“Feedback from exhibitors and guests has been so positive. It seems DesignBUILD offered the perfect balance of information, inspiration and innovation.“We’re looking forward to returning the expo to Melbourne next year and creating the same opportunity and excitement there,” she said.

The team from i-Bond said they had run out of samples before the expo closed, as visitors were keen to take a little piece of the graffiti resistant, self cleaning nano-tec coated aluminium composite with them.

The crew at Concreate also explained that the expo exceeded their expectations and many renowned architects and designers had been impressed with the creative use of concrete for residential and commercial applications.

Traditional building materials are usually resource heavy, labour intensive and can often be expensive, however, visitors to DesignBUILD 2011 would be aware that there is plenty of building material innovation in the industry and the applications are as diverse as they are inspiring.

Exhibitor Stack Panel Australia showcased its architectural timber walling product, which is:

  • Created from down cuts, wastage and recycled timber to create a timber look panel
  • Suitable for residential and commercial internal and external applications including feature walls, outdoor living spaces, cafes or showrooms
The Woodage passport decking system is 100% recyclable and has no fade colour retention. Passport decking is:
  • Mould and mildew resistant
  • Boasts the highest fire rating
  • Can be used in full sun or covered areas
  • A great alternative to real exotic hardwood
Wedi building board can be used as an alternative carrier element when laying tiles, slabs and natural stone floor coverings. It is lightweight, durable, waterproof and its versatility is not limited by wooden or metal framework.
  • Wedi building board can also be an adhesive substrate for applying plaster, tile adhesive and other materials while providing moisture protection and effective heating insulation
  • Easy installation, reducing labour and material costs
PapeRock non-toxic, composite building material won the 2011 Selector Best New Product Award. It is incredibly strong and manufactured from layer upon layer of paper (recycled or from sustainable sources) and bonded with phenolic resin and then heat/pressure cured. It is sourced and manufactured in Australia by an Australian owned company and the material is workable by any trained carpenter with normal wood working tools.

PapeRock composite building material is impervious to water, is heat resistant up to 180 degrees and is so strong that a 20mm benchtop can be cantilevered to 460mm. It is ideal for:

  • Kitchen benches
  • Food preparation surfaces including cutting boards
  • Architectural materials and industrial work surfaces
  • Furniture including table tops and chairs
The 2011 DesignBUILD expo is now closed and DesignBUILD 2012 will open at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre from 27th to 29th June 2012.