August 2025

Step into the world of sustainable craftsmanship with Tom Henderson, the visionary director of 35 Degrees. Based in Canberra, 35 Degrees is transforming how we think about modern homebuilding by combining energy efficiency, innovative design, and eco-friendly practices.

Known for their expertise in new homes, knockdown rebuilds, and thoughtful extensions, the team specialises in creating architect-designed spaces that balance performance, beauty, and environmental responsibility.

For over two decades, Tom has collaborated with Thor's Hammer, incorporating recycled timber and other reclaimed materials into his projects. His passion for craftsmanship and sustainable solutions is evident in every detail, from custom-built pergolas to beautiful recycled timber clad entrances.

Tom, learning to use an Adze (with protective legwear so he doesn’t lose a leg!) to shape logs into squared off beams at the traditional housing museum in Copenhagen (they relocate old houses from around the country into this one “open air” museum).

Can you share the story behind founding 35 Degrees and what inspired you to start the company?

In 2009, I founded a business called Jigsaw Housing, which became a collaboration between myself, a builder, an architect, and a building scientist that enjoyed rapid growth until 2015 when we decided to simplify the business model and split it up. 35 Degrees was born from the construction side of the business and Light house Architecture and Science was born from the design side.

What is your earliest memory of working with timber?

My earliest memory is watching my father build an extension to our childhood home out near Hoskinstown. As a child, I didn’t really understand what it meant that he worked as an economist at Treasury—he’d leave each day in a suit, and that was that. But seeing him come home and build something tangible with his hands made a lasting impression on me. It was my first real glimpse of the satisfaction that comes from working with timber and creating something physical and enduring.

During Tom’s apprenticeship in Copenhagen, all the apprentices in the class at Copenhagen Technical School (the local TAFE) participated in traditional craftsman’s festival. They were tasked to built a replica of a small wooden cage that was used to jail an English pirate called John Norcross for over 15 years in the 18th century!

What attracted you to study carpentry?

When I found myself living in Copenhagen as a young parent—an unexpected chapter in my life—I knew it was time to knuckle down and commit to a career path. The one thing I was certain about was that I wanted to build my own house. So I decided to learn how to do it properly and began a carpentry apprenticeship.

The highlight of starting my apprenticeship in Denmark was learning traditional timber framing techniques—using mortise and tenon joints secured with timber plugs, with no nails or screws. That experience gave me a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and the strength and beauty of traditional building methods.

What do you consider your biggest accomplishment?

Staying in business for over 20 years. Running a small business can be incredibly challenging, while also being deeply rewarding. I’m proud to have built multiple businesses over that time, and of the relationships, projects, and—perhaps most importantly—the personal growth that has come with it.

How do you approach challenges?

One of our core values as a business is: “Challenges are opportunities for growth.” We genuinely live by this. When challenges arise, we see them as a chance to come together, collaborate, and problem-solve as a team. Often, it leads to shifting a habit or reframing a mindset—and that opens the door to something fresh, more effective, and ultimately more rewarding.

Decking and cladding - Built by 35 Degrees

What advice would you give to someone looking to build a sustainable home in Canberra?

Engage a designer or architect who collaborates closely with a builder from the outset. The process will be far smoother—and the outcome more successful—when you have a team that works together to balance function, aesthetics, performance, and, importantly, budget. This integrated approach helps ensure that sustainable design ideas are realistic, buildable, and aligned with your financial goals.

What challenges or opportunities arise when working with recycled timber from Thor's Hammer?

Canberra is a young city—we don’t have the rich textures or layers of history that older cities express through their buildings and materials. That’s why being able to use recycled timber from Thor’s Hammer is so valuable. It allows us to inject warmth, character, and a sense of history into the homes we build—giving new spaces a story and connection to the past.

“One of our core values as a business is: Challenges are opportunities for growth”

— Tom Henderson, 35 Degrees

Are there any specific products or materials from Thor's Hammer that you particularly love working with?

We love working with the products we get from Thor’s Hammer because they demand a high level of attention to detail and give us the chance to bring out the fine woodworking tools. Whether it’s crafting a pergola using oversize timbers, or installing remilled wall cladding, the process is hands-on, precise, and deeply satisfying. It’s the kind of work that connects us with what inspired us to become carpenters.

Tell us about a recent favourite project.

We collaborated with Thor's Hammer to build the new shed for the Canberra Environment Centre’s Re-cyclery. Thor's Hammer donated the pergola recycled timbers, and 35 Degrees installed it. It always adds a spring in our step to be able to volunteer our skills for the benefit of the community.

35 Degrees’ carpenter Hayden putting the finishing touches on the Re-cyclery Pergola.

Downtime is best spent…?

….Teaching breathwork and meditation for an organisation called the Art of Living. These practices have helped keep me sane through 20+ years of managing a building business. It gives me a lot of pleasure and energises me teaching these techniques in my spare time.

What do you like to do when you are not working?

Jumping on my bike and riding through the bushland around Canberra. Being amongst the roos and eucalypts of Garooyaroo reserve North of Canberra on my gravel bike is my current favourite ride.

Mackennal Street House - Built by 35 Degrees

Crafting beautiful, sustainable homes takes passion, vision, and a deep commitment to quality—qualities that shine through in every project Tom Henderson leads at 35 Degrees. With a focus on innovative design, eco-conscious practices, and seamless collaboration, Tom and his team create spaces that are not only functional and beautiful but truly built to last. His ongoing partnership with Thor’s Hammer highlights the importance of materials with history, transforming recycled timber into elements that add warmth and character.

Whether you’re dreaming of a sustainable new home, a thoughtful renovation, or an energy-efficient rebuild, 35 Degrees can help turn your vision into reality. With their unique blend of artistry, sustainability, and collaboration, now is the perfect time to transform your living space into something extraordinary. Reach out to Tom at 35 Degrees and start your journey toward a home that reflects your values and lifestyle.

Visit 35 Degrees.

MEET THE MAKER - Tom Henderson from 35 Degrees