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Heavy timber buildings are slowly emerging, both in number and height. As some countries and cities upgrade and introduce building codes related to heavy timber structures, we will see more and more different types of heavy timber buildings in the future.
△ UBC Earth Science Building | Perkins + Will | Photography: Martin Tessler
Mass timber construction is increasingly favored by developers, designers, and builders due to its economical, sustainable, short-term construction schedule, aesthetically pleasing design, and healthy and comfortable construction. As of early 2019, there were over 500 mass 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 Canadian Softwood Lumber Council conducted a survey of developers, owners, designers, and builders who had previously adopted heavy timber construction. In addition to the well-known advantages, the following three factors are the motivations and reasons for the rapid and high-quality development of heavy timber construction:
Innovation
Mass timber construction is at the forefront of innovation in the design and construction industry. A variety of large-span or special-shaped building components can be prefabricated in factories, shortening construction timelines and significantly improving building quality. The unique properties of mass timber products are enabling a rethinking of and redefining traditional commercial and residential building designs.
△ Butler Square | Photography: Preservation Alliance of Minnesota
Market Outlook
Another reason for choosing mass timber construction is that forward-thinking owners, developers, and builders are looking to differentiate themselves in their industries and markets. They want to break the mold of conventional design and construction, creating spaces for their clients that are both beautiful and functional. Residential users can enjoy a comfortable home that reflects their lifestyle, while commercial tenants can work in a creative space.
△ Alliance Center | Gensler | Photography: David Lauer
Reduce carbon emissions
Wood has a carbon content of 50%, sequestering carbon throughout its lifecycle. Compared to steel and concrete structures, using wood as a building material can significantly reduce carbon emissions. As more and more clients seek sustainable construction methods, many institutions and government departments are providing support and preferential policies for the practice and development of green buildings.