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Tag: Mass timber

  • Top 6 mass timber companies leading the sustainable construction revolution

    Top 6 mass timber companies leading the sustainable construction revolution

    Mass timber companies are revolutionizing the building sector, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional materials like steel and concrete. This innovative approach uses engineered wood products, which not only reduce buildings’ environmental footprint but also improve construction efficiency and aesthetic appeal. Leading companies like Timberlab and Seagate Mass Timber Inc. are making significant strides in this space, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with wood-based architecture.

    The benefits of mass timber construction

    Mass timber construction has surged in popularity due to its unique advantages over traditional building methods. One of its key benefits is environmental sustainability. Unlike steel and concrete, which have high carbon footprints, mass timber is renewable and stores carbon throughout its lifespan. This characteristic lowers the greenhouse gases associated with construction and aligns with global sustainability goals.

    Additionally, mass timber construction is known for its efficiency. Prefabricated wooden components can be manufactured off-site and assembled quickly, cutting construction time and labor costs. This approach also results in less waste and fewer disruptions to the surrounding area, making it a more practical choice for urban development.

    Another advantage of mass timber is its structural performance. Its high strength-to-weight ratio makes it suitable for large, open spaces and tall buildings while maintaining stability in seismic zones. Beyond its structural benefits, mass timber offers a warm, natural aesthetic that enhances the interior atmosphere, promoting well-being and comfort for occupants.

    6 leading mass-timber companies transforming construction

    1. Seagate Mass Timber Inc.

    Vancouver’s Seagate Mass Timber Inc. specializes in designing, prefabricating, and installing mass-timber and cross-laminated timber (CLT) structures. Since its founding in 2001, Seagate has established a strong reputation for quality and innovation in the mass timber industry, delivering high-quality solutions for projects across North America. Their experience includes projects like the Under Armour headquarters, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, and the BCIT Student House. They’ve managed the full turn-key supply and installation of more than 300,000 sq. ft. of mass in the Under Armour project alone. With mass timber continuing to see a higher adoption rate, Seagate will likely be around for the long haul, delivering more iconic buildings in the future.

    2. Nordic Structures

    Based out of Quebec, Canada, Nordic Structures specializes in engineered wood products for the construction industry. With over 50 years of experience, they offer sustainable solutions for various projects, including schools, commercial buildings, and residential developments. Their product line includes cross-laminated timber (CLT), glulam beams, and I-joists designed to meet diverse construction needs. The company builds with mass timber and emphasizes environmental responsibility by managing nearly 4 million acres of black spruce forests and ensuring sustainable harvesting and manufacturing processes. They also provide comprehensive technical support to architects and engineers, assisting in designing and implementing mass timber structures. Their portfolio includes significant projects like the John W. Olver Design Building at UMass Amherst, the first post-secondary mass timber structure in the U.S.

    3. Element5

    Element5, founded in 2015, is a Canadian company that designs, fabricates, and assembles modern timber buildings. Based in St. Thomas, Ontario, their product line includes cross-laminated timber (CLT), glulam beams, cross-laminated insulated panels (CLIPs), and nanoCLT, offering options for various construction needs. The company operates out of a highly advanced 137,000-square-foot manufacturing facility, producing up to 50,000 cubic meters of mass-timber products annually. Element5 also provides full-service support to clients, offering cost and design consulting, timber engineering, and on-site assembly assistance. Their project portfolio includes residential, commercial, municipal, educational, and Indigenous community buildings, showcasing the flexibility and potential of timber construction.

    4. Timberlab

    Timberlab is a leading company in the mass timber industry, known for its expertise in designing, fabricating, and installing engineered wood products. They provide end-to-end services for mass-timber construction, from custom manufacturing to digital modeling and on-site assembly. Recently, Timberlab added glulam manufacturing to its offerings, allowing them greater control over product quality and supply chain efficiency. One of their most significant projects included the Portland Airport renovations, which included a stunning 400,000 square-foot timber roof that paid homage to Oregon’s rich natural beauty. Other notable projects include the Brooks Museum of Art and the Tom Lee Park.  

    5. Mercer Mass Timber

    Mercer Mass Timber, a division of Mercer International, is a leading producer of mass timber products, including cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glue-laminated timber (GLT). Mercer Mass Timber’s Spokane Valley facility, established in August 2021, is equipped with the latest advancements in automation technology and one of the world’s largest CLT presses, positioning it as a premier CLT production site in North America. In June 2023, Mercer Mass Timber acquired Structurlam Mass Timber Corporation, adding manufacturing facilities in Conway, Arkansas, and Okanagan Falls, British Columbia. This expansion increased their production capacity and reinforced their leadership in the mass timber industry.

    The company sources wood from certified forests in Canada and the U.S., utilizing species such as Spruce-Pine-Fir (SPF), Douglas Fir-Larch, Southern Yellow Pine, and Alaska Yellow Cedar, ensuring the durability and quality of their products while reducing their carbon footprint. They have several notable projects, like the Google Borregas office building in Sunnyvale, California, and the Microsoft Silicon Valley campus, showcasing the potential of mass timber in modern construction.

    6. D.R. Johnson Wood Innovations

    D.R. Johnson Wood Innovations, located in Oregon, is a pioneer in the U.S. mass timber industry and was the first company in the country to receive certification for producing structural cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels. D.R. Johnson’s CLT panels are engineered with enhanced durability to withstand seismic forces, making them ideal for building in earthquake-prone regions. The company collaborates with universities and industry organizations to advance research on mass timber, specifically focusing on its structural performance in challenging environmental conditions.

    Final thoughts

    Mass timber construction is transforming the building industry, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional materials. Companies like Timberlab, Nordic Structures, and Element5 are leading the way with innovative solutions highlighting engineered wood’s versatility and benefits. As more builders and architects embrace mass timber, the potential for greener, more sustainable cities is becoming a reality.

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  • North America’s coolest mass timber marvels

    North America’s coolest mass timber marvels

    Mass timber is transforming how we think about architecture, combining sustainability with stunning design. From Vancouver’s record-breaking tallest timber building to Portland’s breathtaking PDX Airport terminal roof and Quebec’s Nordic-style chalet, this versatile material redefines what’s possible in construction. Across North America, architects use mass timber to create strong, sustainable, and visually striking structures that set a new standard for innovation.

    Quick looks

    • Mass timber is revolutionizing North American architecture, blending sustainability, strength, and striking design in projects.
    • As a renewable, carbon-storing resource, mass timber is an eco-friendly alternative to steel and concrete, reducing construction’s environmental impact.
    • Mass timber showcases versatility across functional and aesthetic design, from airport terminal roofs and civic pavilions to academic buildings and Nordic-style chalets.
    • Prefabricated panels, combined with natural warmth and durability, make mass timber an efficient choice for building greener, smarter structures.

    The rise of mass timber

    Mass timber is a modern construction material made by layering and compressing wood for exceptional strength and durability. Unlike traditional wood framing, mass timber can handle the load-bearing demands of large-scale projects, making it a game-changer in architecture. Its growing popularity stems from a unique blend of sustainability, versatility, and beauty.

    Sustainability is one of mass timber’s biggest draws. As a renewable resource, wood absorbs and stores carbon throughout its lifecycle, making it a greener alternative to steel or concrete. When responsibly sourced, it helps reduce a building’s overall carbon footprint and supports efforts to combat climate change.

    Mass timber’s aesthetic appeal is undeniable. Its natural warmth and grain create a biophilic connection that brings the outdoors in, offering a more inviting and calming atmosphere. Architects love its flexibility for creating striking, open designs, whether it’s the Nordic-inspired chalet in Quebec or the massive timber roof of Portland’s PDX Airport terminal.

    Despite its lightweight nature, mass timber is incredibly strong, rivaling traditional materials in structural performance. This balance of strength and flexibility has enabled projects like Vancouver’s towering timber high-rise and Milwaukee’s Ascent building to push boundaries in construction.

    Beyond its beauty and strength, mass timber contributes to more efficient building processes. Prefabricated panels simplify assembly, cutting down on construction time and waste. Together, these benefits position mass timber as a forward-thinking solution for creating greener, smarter buildings across North America.

    6 must-see mass timber projects across North America

    Brock Commons Tallwood House

    Photo source: Living Labs UBC
    • Location: Vancouver, Canada
    • Architect/Builder: Acton Ostry Architects
    • Type of Building: Mixed-use residential and academic spaces

    Brock Commons Tallwood House at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver is a landmark in mass timber construction. At 18 stories, it was one of the first tall wood hybrid buildings of its kind, combining cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels with a concrete core. The project highlights mass timber’s potential for reducing construction times and carbon emissions while maintaining structural integrity. Designed for mixed-use purposes, including residential and academic spaces, Brock Commons Tallwood House showcases the future of sustainable, large-scale urban development.

    Limberlost Place

    Photo source: Moriyama & Teshima Architects

    Limberlost Place is a groundbreaking 10-story mass timber academic building at George Brown College in Toronto. It is one of Ontario’s first tall, net-zero carbon wood structures. Designed by Moriyama & Teshima Architects in collaboration with Acton Ostry Architects, it demonstrates how mass timber can combine sustainability, innovation, and aesthetics.

    The building incorporates CLT and glulam (glued laminated timber) beams, reducing its environmental impact while creating a striking architectural presence. Limberlost Place models future academic and institutional structures, blending energy efficiency, durability, and biophilic design to inspire the next generation of students.

    PDX Airport Terminal Roof

    Photo source: ZGF Architects
    • Location: Portland, Oregon
    • Architect/Builder: ZGF Architects
    • Type of Building: Airport terminal roof

    The Portland International Airport (PDX) terminal expansion features an awe-inspiring mass timber roof that spans approximately 400,000 square feet. Designed by ZGF Architects, the roof is constructed from regionally sourced Douglas Fir and showcases over 3.3 million board feet of mass timber from Pacific Northwest forests.

    This design incorporates more than 400 glulam (glued-laminated) arches that extend up to 80 feet, paired with a lattice of Douglas Fir inspired by traditional regional weaving patterns. The roof provides structural support and creates a warm, biophilic atmosphere for travelers, reflecting Oregon’s natural beauty.

    What sets this project apart is its use of prefabricated modules, which were assembled off-site and transported to the terminal for efficient installation. This innovative approach minimized disruption to airport operations while ensuring precision and sustainability.

    Nordic-style Mass Timber Chalet

    Photo source: Dezeen
    • Location: Quebec, Canada
    • Architect/Builder: Lemay
    • Type of Building: Residential chalet

    This elegant Nordic-style chalet designed by Lemay in Quebec exemplifies how mass timber can blend modernity with nature. The structure’s timber frame harmonizes with its surroundings, while its efficient construction reduces environmental impact. Its minimalist design and biophilic elements make it a standout in residential architecture.

    Ascent

    Photo source: Ascent MKE

    Ascent in Milwaukee is a record-breaking mass timber high-rise that stands 25 stories and 284 feet tall. Designed by Korb + Associates Architects, the building combines CLT floors with a hybrid concrete core, reducing its carbon footprint while maintaining strength and durability. This residential high-rise has set a global benchmark for sustainable urban living and innovation in high-rise construction.

    Coming Soon! 55-Story Timber Skyscraper

    Photo source: MGA

    A proposed 55-story skyscraper in Milwaukee by Michael Green Architecture will push the boundaries of mass timber construction. If completed, it will become one of the world’s tallest timber buildings, demonstrating the scalability of this sustainable material. The high-rise will use advanced CLT technology and innovative engineering techniques to ensure durability and safety at such heights.

    The project emphasizes sustainability and integrates eco-friendly features such as energy-efficient systems and a reduced carbon footprint compared to traditional skyscrapers. With its innovative design, this skyscraper aims to redefine urban architecture and serve as a benchmark for future timber high-rises globally.

    Bottom line

    Mass timber is more than just a building material—it’s a movement reshaping the future of architecture and construction. From the record-breaking heights of Milwaukee’s proposed wunder-skyscraper to the sustainable elegance of Quebec’s Nordic-style chalet, these projects highlight this innovative material’s incredible versatility, beauty, and eco-conscious benefits.

    As architects and builders continue to push the boundaries of mass timber’s capabilities, it’s clear that this approach is paving the way for greener, more sustainable cities and communities. By reducing carbon footprints while creating stunning, functional spaces, mass timber sets a new standard for construction that’s as environmentally friendly as it is visually inspiring.

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  • Swinerton begins construction on Texas mass timber office

    Swinerton begins construction on Texas mass timber office

    California-based Swinerton recently broke ground on east Austin’s new multi-use mass timber office. The company, an industry-leading construction management firm, has partnered with Dick Clark + Associates (DC+A), as well as Lindgren Development for the design and build. Swinerton itself will occupy the building, and each floor will highlight its own mechanical system. 

    Photo source: Dick Clark + Associates

    The new building, known as Workbench, will incorporate sustainable design and will be made to showcase mass timber to interested clients. DC+A Principal Mark Vornberg says, “Many of the project partners have been ingrained in East Austin for decades. The opportunity to bring together a built environment ‘design collective’ under one roof and within a mass timber building is beyond exciting. The neighboring community has been supportive of this development, and we look forward to continuing this bond.”

    As an alternative to concrete and steel for building, mass timber has risen in popularity internationally in recent years. Both the biophilic and sustainable elements of the material have made it appealing to integrate into office, multi-family, civic, academic buildings, and more. These buildings can be more efficiently cooled and heated, and the construction completion timeline is streamlined. Workbench itself is expected to be completed in January 2026 and is said to store around 500 metric tons of CO2. 

    Photo source: Dick Clark + Associates

    Workbench is leased primarily by women-owned and operated firms, and additional project partners include Beck-Reit Commercial Real Estate, Legacy Lighting, Fort Structures, and Art + Artisans. The first floor of the building will feature Legacy Lighting’s showroom and a restaurant space. The second floor will be occupied by Swinerton and feature a traditional mass timber system with exposed mechanical equipment overhead. DC+A, Legacy Lighting, Fort Structures, Beck-Reit Commercial Real Estate, and Art + Artisans will occupy floor three. This floor will showcase a raised-access flooring system with hidden ventilation.

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  • California State University begins $14 million mass timber project

    California State University begins $14 million mass timber project

    California State University marks a significant milestone with the construction of its $14 million mass-timber University Service Building (USB). Located on the CSU Fullerton campus, this project will be the first mass timber structure in the California State University system, reflecting the institution’s commitment to sustainability and innovation in construction. 

    The project overview

    The University Service Building is set to serve as a hub for essential campus operations, including offices, storage spaces, and services related to campus facilities. Spanning 25,000 square feet, the USB will utilize mass timber, an innovative material known for its sustainability and efficiency. With Swinerton as the lead contractor, this project will demonstrate the potential of mass timber construction in larger-scale institutional projects across California.

    Mass timber offers a unique blend of strength, sustainability, and beauty, making it a fitting choice for this forward-thinking project. The University Service Building not only aims to meet the immediate needs of the CSU Fullerton campus but also showcases how modern building techniques can align with broader environmental goals.

    Rendering of CSU’s mass timber building. Photo source: Swinerton.

    Why mass timber matters in construction

    Mass timber has gained significant attention in recent years due to its environmental benefits. Unlike traditional building materials like steel and concrete, mass timber is made from engineered renewable wood products with a lower carbon footprint. This shift toward renewable materials in construction helps reduce the environmental impact of building large-scale structures.

    Another key advantage of mass timber is its ability to store carbon. Trees absorb carbon dioxide during their growth, and when the wood is used in construction, it locks in that carbon for the lifespan of the building. This makes mass timber an attractive option for projects aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

    Beyond sustainability, mass timber construction is efficient and cost-effective. Prefabricated wooden panels are manufactured off-site and assembled quickly on location, reducing the overall construction time. For projects like CSU Fullerton’s USB, this means faster timelines, fewer delays, and a reduced impact on the campus during construction.

    CSU’s commitment to sustainable building practices

    By adopting mass timber for the University Service Building, California State University is demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and innovation in its infrastructure. This project aligns with the university’s broader goals of reducing environmental impact and supporting green building practices. CSU Fullerton’s USB project may inspire other universities and public institutions to explore mass timber for future projects, promoting sustainable growth across various sectors.

    In the context of academic and institutional buildings, mass timber presents a path forward for eco-conscious construction that can meet the demands of modern design while supporting environmental goals. This project signals a growing trend toward greener building practices within large-scale public institutions, with CSU Fullerton leading the way. 

    Bottom line

    Mass timber structures like the USB could become increasingly common as more organizations look to reduce their carbon footprint and make smarter material choices. For California State University, the $14 million University Service Building is just the beginning of a new era in sustainable construction.

    Click here to view the live stream of the buildings’ progress.

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  • How mass timber is transforming sustainable building practices

    How mass timber is transforming sustainable building practices

    In the quest for sustainable construction, mass timber is emerging as a revolutionary alternative to traditional materials like concrete and steel. Recent large-scale projects, such as Walmart’s corporate campus in Arkansas and the record-breaking Ascent tower in Milwaukee, showcase the material’s potential. Its ability to reduce buildings’ carbon footprint while also providing strength and durability capable of matching traditional materials makes it an exciting development in the construction industry. 

    What is mass timber?

    Mass timber refers to a category of engineered wood products created by layering multiple pieces of wood, often laminated together using adhesives, nails, or wooden dowels. The most common form, cross-laminated timber (CLT), features wood layers set at right angles to one another. What truly sets mass timber apart is its ability to serve as a viable substitute for steel and concrete, offering comparable load-bearing capabilities and structural resilience. The CLT structure grants mass timber strength and stability, making it suitable for large-scale construction up to 18 stories high. However, mass timber is being used in more than just large-scale projects. 

    Photo source: APA — The Engineered Wood Association

    Types of mass timber being used in construction

    Mass timber products are versatile and adaptable across various applications in construction due to their structural strength and design flexibility. Here’s a breakdown of the commonly applied mass timber products:

    • Nail-Laminated Timber (NLT): Commonly used for floors and decking in commercial and industrial buildings. NLT’s simplicity and cost-effectiveness make it suitable for shorter spans.
    • Glue-Laminated Timber (Glulam): Glulam is frequently used for large beams, columns, and arches. Its ability to be curved and shaped means it is often found in architecturally complex buildings like sports arenas and churches.
    • Dowel-Laminated Timber (DLT): Known for its strong connections without adhesives, DLT is commonly used in industrial and commercial floors, allowing for efficient construction with low environmental impact.
    • Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT): Primarily used in high-rise buildings, walls, floors, and roofs, CLT’s ability to bear heavy loads makes it ideal for tall structures. It’s also preferred for its quick assembly and precise prefabrication.

    Mass timber’s rise to spotlight

    A major breakthrough for mass timber came in 2021 when updates to the International Building Code (IBC) allowed for the construction of mass timber buildings up to 18 stories tall. This milestone was significant because it removed a regulatory barrier that previously limited the height and scope of timber structures. The new codes acknowledged the advancements in mass timber technology, particularly its structural integrity, fire resistance, and ability to meet stringent building requirements.

    For example, in terms of durability, mass timber has proven resilient against natural disasters like earthquakes due to its high strength-to-weight ratio. Its lower weight reduces the load on foundations, and its flexible structure can better absorb seismic activity than heavier materials like concrete. Additionally, mass timber has demonstrated fire resistance. During fire tests, mass timber develops a char layer on the outer surface that insulates the inner core, maintaining its structural integrity. This performance under fire conditions, combined with proper encapsulation techniques such as gypsum or drywall layers, makes it as safe as traditional materials under modern building codes.

    While these proven advancements have allowed mass timber to be used more commonly in a wider variety of projects, from mid-rise apartment buildings and office spaces to large-scale developments like Walmart’s campus, there is more to mass timber than just meeting code regulations.  

    The Ascent Tower, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is the tallest mass timber structure in the world, sitting at 25 stories. Architect: Korb + Associates Architects, CD Smith. Photo source: Thornton Tomasetti.

    Benefits of using mass timber

    Lower carbon footprint

    One of the primary advantages of mass timber is its contribution to reducing carbon emissions. Unlike steel and concrete, which require energy-intensive production processes, wood naturally stores carbon. By using sustainably harvested timber, construction projects can significantly lower their carbon footprint, making mass timber an eco-friendly choice in the fight against climate change. This benefit is crucial as cities and industries work toward more sustainable building practices.

    Aesthetic and biophilic benefits

    Mass timber buildings offer a unique aesthetic appeal, with the natural warmth and texture of exposed wood creating inviting spaces. This biophilic design—connecting occupants with nature—has improved mental well-being, increased productivity, and even reduced stress in office environments. Whether used in residential homes or commercial buildings, mass timber creates spaces that feel both modern and natural, enhancing the overall consumer experience.

    Faster construction times

    The prefabrication of mass timber components allows for faster assembly on-site, reducing labor costs and minimizing construction time. This speed makes mass timber especially beneficial for large-scale commercial projects or developments that require quick turnaround times. In many cases, entire structures can be assembled in a fraction of the time it would take to construct a similar building using concrete or steel.

    Versatility in application

    Mass timber is highly versatile and can be used across various construction types, including residential, commercial, and institutional projects. It has proven effective in everything from low-rise homes to high-rise buildings. 

    Walmart’s new home office sits on a 350-acre campus of native-seeded greenery and will consist of more than 2.5 million square feet of mass timber construction spread over 11 buildings. Photo source: Woodworks Innovation Network.

    Are we ready for mass adoption?

    While the hype is building behind mass timber, several hurdles must be addressed. 

    • Workforce training: Many workers in the construction industry lack experience with mass timber building techniques. Developing specialized education programs and apprenticeships will be crucial in scaling its use. 
    • Sustainable harvesting practices: While timber is a greener product than concrete and steel, guidelines that are strictly enforced are needed to ensure that mass timber’s environmental benefits are realized without contributing to deforestation.
    • Building a sustainable supply chain: This is another critical step, especially since prefabricated components are typically manufactured off-site. To minimize delays, it will be necessary to ensure consistent and quality production and secure transportation methods. 
    • Managing the long-term lifecycle of mass timber buildings: How the material will fare in different climates is still to be fully determined. In addition, implementing strategies for maintaining and repairing these structures after fires is still an issue that needs to be solved and will be essential for securing investor and public confidence.

    Mass timber’s full potential may remain untapped without addressing these logistical, regulatory, and ecological considerations. 

    Bottom line

    Mass timber rapidly emerges as a key material in sustainable construction, offering lower carbon emissions and faster build times. Its versatility allows for use in everything from residential homes to high-rise buildings. As regulatory frameworks evolve and technical challenges like workforce training and sustainable harvesting are addressed, mass timber is poised to play a crucial role in the future of eco-friendly construction practices.