The Rise of Engineered Wood: Engineering Sustainable Architecture
Engineered wood, a modern building material deeply rooted in historical insights and advanced technology, is transforming the construction and architecture landscape. This innovative material is redefining how we approach designing sustainable and eco-friendly structures, firmly positioning itself as a viable alternative to the concrete and steel of the 20th century. Known collectively as mass timber, engineered wood offers a unique blend of durability, versatility, and the inherent warmth of natural wood. As we embrace this new era of innovation, architects and engineers are leveraging engineered wood to create eco-conscious buildings ranging from modern skyscrapers to cozy residential homes.
What is Engineered Wood?
At its core, engineered wood is created by binding together various layers of veneers, strands, or fibers of wood using advanced adhesives. This process optimizes the material’s strength, stability, and performance, enabling architects to design larger, more intricate structures without compromising on flexibility or weight. Popular types of engineered wood include Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL), and Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam). These products enable architects to push the boundaries of design while incorporating an organic element that resonates with contemporary aesthetics.
Let’s delve into 10 inspiring structures constructed with engineered wood that enhance eco-conscious architecture and energy-efficient living.
1. Puukuokka Housing Block
Designed by OOPEAA, the Puukuokka Housing Block in Jyväskylä, Finland, stands as a paragon of sustainable urban living. This award-winning residential project ingeniously showcases the beauty of wood-framed construction, evolving from a single-family home model into a multi-unit dwelling.
The design exemplifies modular construction, utilizing prefabricated panels to form living spaces. The use of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) not only augments the aesthetic warmth of the facade but also promotes improved air quality and reduced environmental impact through sustainable building practices.
2. The Smile Installation
A creative endeavor by Alison Brooks Architects, the Smile Installation was designed for the London Design Festival 2016. Crafted from American tulipwood, this playful structure features curves that emphasize the sensory potential of hardwood Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT). The installation invites visitors to experience the beauty of timber through its structural form, offering a unique sensory journey.
3. The Albina Yard
Situated in Portland, Oregon, LEVER Architecture designed the Albina Yard as the first building in the U.S. to utilize a structural system composed entirely of domestically fabricated Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT). With its innovative form and abundant natural light, it underscores the efficiency of timber construction while creating dynamic, engaging spaces.
4. Moholt Timber Towers
In Trondheim, Norway, MDH Arkitekter designed the Moholt Timber Towers, a nine-story structure that utilizes Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT). This innovative design is not only a structural marvel but also enhances environmental performance, creating a vibrant community space that fosters student interaction and cooperation.
5. Nordtvet Farm Kindergarten
The MORFEUS arkitekter designed Nordtvet Farm Kindergarten in Oslo, Norway, amalgamating community and educational functions. The facility boasts a load-bearing CLT system while fostering a robust indoor environment. Its design philosophy, inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach, integrates playful spaces for children, enhancing community interaction and sustainability.
6. Brock Commons Tallwood House
Brock Commons Tallwood House at the University of British Columbia is recognized as the world’s tallest contemporary mass timber hybrid building. Designed by Acton Ostry Architects Inc., this 18-story student residence combines sustainability with innovative design, utilizing Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) in a hybrid structure that balances beauty and environmental understanding.
7. HoHo Wien
Located in Vienna, Austria, HoHo Wien is the world’s tallest hybrid timber building, demonstrating timber’s potential as a sustainable construction material. Designed by RLP Rüdiger Lainer + Partner Architekten, it embodies the transition towards environmentally conscious building practices, showcasing a multifaceted structure housing residential, commercial, and cultural spaces.
8. T3 Building in Minneapolis
Combining timber, technology, and transit, the T3 Building in Minneapolis is a collaborative design by Michael Green Architecture and DLR Group. This innovative office space employs exposed timber to create a warm, inviting atmosphere, while also utilizing weathering steel for framing, further solidifying its commitment to sustainable design.
9. HAUT
In Amsterdam, Team V Architecture crafted HAUT, a 21-story residential building that resonates with the goal of climate neutrality by 2050. Its bold design incorporates prefabricated timber elements and showcases expressive architectural features, supporting a mixed-use environment that promotes community well-being.
10. Sara Cultural Centre
Located in Skellefteå, Sweden, the Sara Cultural Centre, designed by White Arkitekter, integrates traditional timber architecture with modern design principles. This ambitious project represents a commitment to sustainability, aiming to become carbon-negative throughout its lifecycle while fostering community engagement and cultural exchange.
Conclusion
Engineered wood is not just reshaping the skylines of our cities; it’s also revolutionizing our approach to sustainability in construction. With the ability to create stunning architectural forms while reducing environmental impact, engineered wood stands at the forefront of modern building practices. As these ten inspiring structures showcase, the future of architecture is not just built from steel and concrete, but from the sustainable, innovative potential of timber.
