How I experienced nZEB Expo Cluj 2024 from the role of moderator of the Workshow stage

It was a great honor and a great joy when I was invited to moderate the Workshow stage at nZEB Expo Cluj. When I say honor, I think of the confidence to coordinate a stage dedicated to professionals and craftsmen, and when I say joy, I think of the opportunity to be where the really important things happen for the construction industry.

A stage with a personality of its own

nZEB Expo Cluj had two main stages: the center stage, dedicated to large conferences and debates, and our stage - Workshow - where practice and theory embraced in a very special way. Here, in this space dedicated to technical presentations and hands-on workshops, we saw how the future is being built - literally.

I had the privilege of witnessing unique moments when the seating area was so full that visitors were standing in the back to listen to the presentations. At times, crowds gathered in several rows effectively blocked the way to other areas of the exhibition - a "happy inconvenience" that spoke volumes about the quality of the content presented.

A living, learning community

What impressed me most was the diversity of the audience. I saw established professionals taking notes at the presentations on technical details, young couples coming to research for their future home and students absorbed in the hands-on demonstrations. Many attendees were not just casual visitors - they knew the program by heart and came prepared with specific questions.

I remember how some of them told me that they came specially to Cluj for all three days of the event, just so they could attend as many technical presentations as possible. It is amazing to see such dedication and thirst for knowledge!

The Wood Hub - a pillar of the Workshow scene

As representative of Wood Hub, I was proud to see how our initiative fitted perfectly into the concept of the Workshow scene. Our presentations on wood treatment, the right choice of timber grades and the relationship between solid wood furniture and passive houses sparked lively and constructive debates.

"Vădan's Glade" - our traditional debating space - took on a new dimension on the Workshow stage. At the end of each day, this moment became a real sit-down, where practical experiences and innovative theories were combined. A special moment was when, after a round table on education, we had the pleasure to have with us Prof. Eng. Alin Olărescu, dean of the Faculty of Furniture Design and Wood Engineering in Brașov, in a captivating discussion about the future of the carpentry profession and the importance of promoting excellence in this field.

Moments to remember

What makes an event truly special are those unplanned moments that give it authenticity. The presenters didn't limit themselves strictly to the announced topics - they answered questions from the audience, shared personal experiences, and peppered their presentations with humor and anecdotes from the construction site. This relaxed yet professional approach created an atmosphere where learning became natural and enjoyable.

A confirmation of the right direction

nZEB Expo Cluj 2024 demonstrated that there is a real and growing interest in energy efficient buildings and sustainable solutions. The difference compared to 6-7 years ago is remarkable - the audience's questions are more informed, more specific and show a deepening understanding of the field.

My only regret was that, being so involved in moderating the Workshow scene, I couldn't spend more time at the Wood Hub's booth to meet in person all those who came to meet us. But I'm sure there will be many more opportunities to meet in the future.nZEB Expo Cluj 2024 was more than just an event - it was a confirmation that we are on the right track, that there is a strong and growing community that shares the same passion for sustainable and efficient construction. And the Workshow stage demonstrated that there is a real hunger for practical information, presented in an accessible and immediately applicable way.

For me personally, it was an experience that confirmed that when you put passion and professionalism into what you do, the results are quick to show. And the pictures of the audience blocking the aisles remain the best proof that we are exactly where we need to be.

Mihaela Radu - Wood Hub