Inspiration

What are Landscape Timbers? Landscape timbers is a catch-all term used for wood that is rot resistant and therefore better suited to outdoor conditions. Traditionally landscape timbers have been manufactured from tropical hardwoods or chemically treated softwoods which for many consumers, have unacceptable environmental consequences.

Our non-toxic wood modification process gives Accoya wood unrivaled durability and resistance to rot. This makes it perfect for demanding exterior and in-ground landscape timber applications. Accoya water-resistant timber is thoroughly tested and we are so confident that it will perform that we provide a 25 year warranty for below ground or fresh water applications.

The West Brabant Water Line is an early 17th century Dutch defensive line that was created by linking cities and villages with earthen fortresses and walls. An inundation zone to the north provided an area that could be flooded with water deep enough to make enemy advance on foot precarious but shallow enough to rule out the effective use of boats. The line once successfully held Spanish and French invaders at bay.

As part of a recent restoration programme, Fort de Roovere, the largest fort on the line required the addition of an access bridge. The fort is surrounded by a moat and was originally built without a bridge so it was a challenge to create one that would be discreet.

RO&AD architects’ solution was to build a ‘sunken’ bridge that follows the line of the fort slope and sits almost flush with the soil and the level of the water, making it practically invisible as you approach the fort.

The bridge is built from Accoya wood sheet piling on either side, with a hardwood deck/stairs in between. Accoya wood’s durability and guaranteed performance in-ground and in freshwater made this possible.