Designing for Wellness:
The Wooden Age:
Resilience, Restoration, and Renaissance
The "Wood In Design" Conference positions wood as a transformative material at the heart of sustainable architecture, advanced manufacturing, and ecological responsibility—supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 while contributing to a global design renaissance.
Bringing together industry leaders, architects, engineers, designers, policymakers, furniture makers, and digital artisans. The event explores how wood—both timeless and technologically advanced—is reshaping the built environment and creative industries.
Participants will engage in cross-disciplinary dialogue around topics ranging from Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) and Glulam to Digital Fabrication, Biophilic Design, and Bespoke Furniture Creation.
In line with the Kingdom’s sustainability goals, the conference will address wood’s pivotal role in:
Carbon sequestration, energy-efficient construction, and climate-resilient design
Navigating the evolving global regulatory landscape, including the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) and its implications for sourcing and compliance
Promoting sustainable forestry, circular economy principles, and responsible material sourcing.
Target
Audience
Architects
Building Consultants
Policy Makers
Mass Timber Manufacturers
Designers
Structural Engineers
Government Officials
Real Estate Developers
Equipment Manufacturers
Fire Officials
Industry Leaders
furniture makers & digital artisans
Why
Attend ?
Gain Insights from Industry Leaders
Hear from experts who are at the forefront of sustainable design and regulatory compliance.
Explore Cutting-Edge Technologies
Learn about the latest advancements in engineered wood products and their applications in modern construction.
Navigate Regulatory Challenges
Understand the implications of the EUDR and how to ensure your projects meet global sustainability standards.
Network with Peers
Connect with fellow professionals, suppliers, and potential collaborators to exchange ideas and explore partnerships.
Inspire Change
Leave the forum with actionable strategies for integrating wood into your designs in ways that are both innovative and responsible.
Aligning with Vision 2030,
the event showcases how wood can contribute to both economic diversification and environmental stewardship in the built environment.
At the intersection of technology, tradition, and design, attendees will explore:
Cutting-edge wood technologies: engineered mass timber, parametric design, and robotic fabrication
The artistic revival of fine woodworking and craftsmanship in interiors, public spaces, and product design;
Case studies of timber-based urban projects revolutionizing skylines around the world.
Agenda
GMT+3 / Riyadh Time
5:00–5:10 PM
Registration & Welcome Remarks
5:10–5:30 PM
Opening Keynote Wood in Motion: Designing for Wellness, Nature & Sustainability
Explores the role of timber in promoting health, sustainability, and emotional connection to natural spaces.
5:30–6:15 PM
Panel Discussion Navigating EUDR & Regional Timber Regulations
Discussion on timber policies, EUDR compliance, and Saudi Green Initiative goals.
6:15–6:25 PM
Networking & Prayer Break
6:25–6:55 PM
Workshop Engineered Wood Solutions (CLT, Glulam) Integrating 3D Concrete Printing with Engineered Timber
Digital construction solutions for harsh climates and key applications of mass timber in major Saudi projects.
6:55–7:25 PM
Presentation From Wood Fibers to Spatial Stillness: A Papertube Architecture of Well-Being
Innovative materials and human-centered design.
7:25–7:55 PM
Fireside Chat From Waste to Worth: Transforming Recycled Wood into Next-Gen Panels and Eco Products
Circular economy strategies in wood innovation.
7:55–8:00 PM
Day 1 Closing Remarks
Workshops and panel discussions
Bridge the gap between digital tools and material intelligence, showing how wood is evolving as a medium for sustainable innovation and timeless beauty.
"Wood in Design" serves as a platform for cross-sector collaboration, encouraging architects, technologists, artists, regulators, and environmentalists to co-create the next generation of sustainable and meaningful spaces.
By fostering a culture of innovation and ecological awareness, the conference empowers professionals to integrate wood into future-proof, compliant, and inspiring environments—locally and globally.
Participants will leave with:
A deeper understanding of wood’s environmental, aesthetic, and structural value.
New networks and collaborative opportunities across disciplines and geographies
Practical tools for compliance, sourcing, and sustainable design
A renewed appreciation of wood’s role in building healthier, smarter, and more human-centered spaces
Wood in Design Awards 2025
Celebrating Innovation, Sustainability & Vision 2030 Impact
In recognition of excellence across the timber design ecosystem, the Wood in Design Awards will honor individuals, teams, and projects that exemplify the transformative role of wood in shaping Saudi Arabia’s sustainable future — in line with Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative.
Award Categories
Timber Innovation Award
For pioneering uses of engineered wood (CLT, Glulam, hybrid systems) that redefine architectural or structural boundaries.
Vision 2030 Sustainability Award
Celebrating projects that contribute to carbon reduction, urban greening, and sustainable city development in alignment with national goals.
Design & Technology Integration Award
Honoring excellence in digital fabrication, CNC/robotic techniques, and the seamless blend of tradition with cutting-edge design tools.
Climate Resilience in Wood Award
Awarded to projects demonstrating exceptional performance of timber in harsh climates — including heat, sand, and humidity — with proven longevity and durability.
Emerging Talent in Wood Architecture
Spotlighting students or young professionals leading the next wave of innovation in wood design, sustainability, or fabrication.
Winners will be recognized during the
WoodShow Awards Dinner
8 September 2025 – 8:00 PM
Submission deadline: 8 September 2025 – 8:00 PM
