With more than 350 exhibitors showcasing their products and services, the new format DesignBUILD 2010 has been a huge step forward for the industry.

DesignBUILD featured areas such as Innovation Alley, Tools of the Trade, Applications in Action, Green Building Zone, Urban Habitat, InfoTech, Plumbing Design, and a dedicated apprentice seminar ‘Foundations’.

According to DesignBUILD Exhibition Manager Steve Horsley, design, building and construction trades and professionals have been working hard gathering information to build the residential and commercial projects of the future.

“We had over 12,000 industry trades and professionals pre-register for this year’s expo and the feedback from exhibitors is that those who attended are serious about changing the way we build.

“To continue delivering enough new building products that meet demand and address environmental needs, the industry needed to collaborate and share thoughts, products and case studies.

“Ultimately, DesignBUILD has become this platform and we’re proud that all products on show must meet Australian Standards, while over 80% of exhibitors are Australian companies,” he said.

The industry’s skills shortage was also being addressed, with the successful introduction of a dedicated seminar, Foundations, Mr Horsley added.

“We were overwhelmed by the response from students and apprentices looking to building their own future and integrate into the industry.

“Nearly 300 students and apprentices registered to attend DesignBUILD, which is a phenomenal achievement for its first year and we will run the series again next year,” he said.

The DesignBUILD Selector Best New Product Award was awarded to Brightgreen for their 50W halogen equivalent downlight, while Creative Drain Solutions and Green Energy Bricks were also acknowledged as finalists for their innovative products.

DesignBUILD closed at 5pm on Friday 25th June in Melbourne and will reopen as DesignBUILD Commercial in Perth from 3rd to 5th November, 2010.

DesignBUILD 2011 will be held in Sydney and Perth, and is set to return to Melbourne in 2012.