At English Woodlands Timber, we believe timber is more than just a material, it’s a story waiting to be told. Every board carries the history of the tree it came from, the care in its harvesting, and the skill of the people who shape it.
This year, we were proud to supply the timber for the TTJ Wood Awards trophies, using two remarkable species: British Sycamore and American Black Walnut. Together, they showcase craftsmanship, sustainability, and the heritage embedded in the wood itself.
Sycamore: British Timber with Heritage
The Sycamore used for this year’s trophies came from the Brocklesby Estate in Lincolnshire. This woodland is known for balancing commercial use with careful environmental management.
Sycamore is pale, stable, and finely textured. Its subtle lustre and versatile grain make it perfect for elegant, detailed work. The wide boards give makers more flexibility, while the timber’s natural strength ensures lasting results.
It also finishes beautifully, revealing a smooth, bright surface that highlights the maker’s skill. By using locally sourced Sycamore, we support British woodland management and help promote sustainability across the UK.
View our GiB Certified Sycamore Boards Here
American Black Walnut: Warmth and Elegance
In contrast, American Black Walnut brings warmth and depth. Sourced from Horizon Wood Products in Pennsylvania, it is known for its rich tones, from chocolate brown to deep purple.
Walnut’s straight, even grain makes it a pleasure to work with. It is both beautiful and reliable, making it a popular choice for fine furniture, joinery, and statement pieces.
When paired with Sycamore, the combination is striking. The pale British wood and the dark American Walnut complement each other perfectly, reflecting the balance between tradition and innovation in modern craftsmanship.
Together, these timbers capture what we value most: provenance, sustainability, and exceptional craftsmanship. Every trophy celebrates not only the wood itself but also the expertise and creativity of those who shape it.
View our American Black Walnut stock Here
Supporting the TTJ Wood Awards
The TTJ Wood Awards honour excellence in timber design, from furniture and joinery to large-scale architecture. By supplying the timber for this year’s trophies, we were able to support an event that celebrates the very best in our industry.
Each trophy represents more than just recognition. It is a symbol of creativity, skill, and the lasting value of responsibly sourced timber. In addition, it reflects our shared commitment to sustainability and craftsmanship – values that define English Woodlands Timber.
Expert Advice Backed by Decades of Experience
Timber is a living material. Every species, cut, and grain behaves differently. Understanding those differences is key to every successful project.
That’s where our expertise comes in. At English Woodlands Timber, our team are not only suppliers but also advisors. They help builders choose the right Oak beam for strength, and guide furniture makers to the perfect Walnut board for detail and beauty.
We are certified by Grown in Britain (GiB) and PEFC, ensuring our certified timbers follow full chain-of-custody standards. Even when timber is not certified, our Managing Director Tom Compton works closely with trusted estates to ensure every piece is responsibly sourced.
As a result, our customers can always be confident that their timber comes from the right place.
Expert advice isn’t optional – it’s part of our promise.
Personalised Appointments: See, Touch, and Choose Your Timber
Choosing timber is personal. You need to see, touch, and compare it to understand its character. That’s why we offer bespoke appointments at our West Sussex yard.
During these sessions, our team guides customers through our stock, helping them select boards by hand. For those who can’t visit, we also offer virtual appointments. This live video service allows makers and builders to handpick timber remotely, ensuring they receive exactly what they need.
As a result, selecting timber becomes an enjoyable, collaborative process – convenient, flexible, and inspiring.
Exceptional Timber for Exceptional Projects
The TTJ Awards are a perfect example of what timber can achieve when combined with skill and imagination. Our Sycamore and American Black Walnut show how thoughtful sourcing and craftsmanship can turn natural wood into objects of lasting value.
At English Woodlands Timber, every project from award-winning trophies to bespoke furniture tells a story of creativity, heritage, and sustainability.
