Innovative Iroko hardwood from Howarth Timber and Building Supplies has been specified for two stunning landscaped garden and courtyard areas at a hospital in the north west of England, bringing excellent aesthetics and durability to the external project.
Iroko is a low-maintenance, natural product which does not require regular treatment with oil or varnish, ensuring the timber is ideal for use in external environments. The high-quality Howarth Iroko was installed by Oldham-based landscape contractors P.R. England and Sons Ltd.
A series of Iroko monoliths were specified to frame flower beds and seating areas in one exterior area of the hospital, while the timber from Howarth was also specified for the raised flower beds and seating areas in a courtyard area of the hospital.
The Iroko monoliths have been arranged in an eye-catching, contemporary, curved design to frame a flower bed and two seating areas on the site. The three arrangements are all centred around a spherical, chrome feature which adds focus to the garden and brings the project together.
For safety, the edges of the timber monoliths are smooth and without sharp, pointed edges, not only reducing potential hazards for patients and staff using the site but also bringing a smooth, contemporary and calming feel to the unit's exterior, complementing the aesthetics of the nearby modern building.
Richard England, director at P. R. England & Sons Ltd, said: "The colour of Iroko offers a stunning, natural way of framing the raised flower beds and brings a welcoming, warm feel to the seating areas. While the timber is light brown when dry, the colour of the product becomes a deep, dark brown when wet, offering stunning visuals in all weather conditions.
"Howarth's Iroko timber weathers well and offers a minimal risk of splintering, ensuring that patients and staff at the unit can visit and admire the landscaped exterior areas without danger of injury. The excellent durability of Iroko timber not only minimises health and safety risks but also ensures maintenance cycles are reduced, saving time and money for proprietors. "
