Why are heavy timber structures becoming increasingly popular?

Heavy timber construction is gradually gaining popularity, with both its quantity and height increasing. As some countries and cities upgrade and introduce building codes related to heavy timber structures, we will see more different types of heavy timber buildings in the future.

△ UBC Earth Science Building | Perkins + Will | Photography: Martin Tessler

Heavy timber construction is increasingly favored by developers, designers, and contractors due to its advantages such as economy, sustainability, short construction time, aesthetics, and health and comfort. As of early 2019, there were more than 500 heavy timber construction projects completed or under construction in the United States alone.

△ T3 Minneapolis | Michael Green Architecture | Photography: Ema Peter

Forestry Innovation Investment (British Columbia Government Forestry Innovation Investment Agency) and BinatioThe Canada-US Softwood Lumber Council conducted a survey of developers, owners, designers, and contractors who had previously used heavy timber construction. Besides the well-known advantages, the following three points identified the motivations and reasons driving the faster and higher development of heavy timber construction:

Innovation

Heavy timber construction represents the forefront of innovation in the design and construction industry. Many large-span or irregularly shaped building components can be prefabricated in factories, which helps shorten construction time and further enhances building quality. The unique properties of heavy timber products are prompting a rethinking and redefinition of traditional design for commercial and residential buildings.

△ Butler Square | Photography: Preservation Alliance of Minnesota

Market Outlook

Another reason for choosing heavy timber construction is that forward-thinking owners, developers, and builders want to stand out in the industry and market. They want to break with conventional design and construction practices and create spaces that are both beautiful and functional for their clients. Residential users can have a comfortable home that reflects their lifestyle, while tenants in commercial buildings can work in a creatively designed space.

△ Alliance Center | Gensler | Photography: David Lauer

Reduce carbon emissions

Wood contains 50% carbon and plays a role in carbon sequestration throughout its life cycle. Compared to steel and concrete structures, using wood as a building material can significantly reduce carbon emissions. More and more clients are seeking sustainable construction methods, and many institutions and government departments are providing support and preferential policies for the practice and development of green building.