Back in history for a sustainable future! Wooden Architecture
Recently, the world has witnessed a resurgence in sustainable building practices, with wooden architecture paving the way. Wood, a renewable and eco-friendly resource with centuries of history in construction, is experiencing a renaissance as a greener alternative to steel, concrete, and other conventional materials.
Why Wooden Architecture?
Recently, the world has witnessed a resurgence in sustainable building practices, with wooden architecture paving the way. Wood, a renewable and eco-friendly resource with centuries of history in construction, is experiencing a renaissance as a greener alternative to steel, concrete, and other conventional materials.
The primary appeal of wooden architecture stems from its remarkably low environmental footprint. Wood, a renewable resource, contrasts with non-renewable alternatives like concrete and steel, as it can be replenished and regrown. Additionally, wood production consumes less energy than other building materials, ultimately shrinking its carbon impact.
In addition, wooden structures boast numerous other benefits. Their natural insulating properties and impressive thermal performance can curtail heating and cooling expenses. Moreover, wood's slow-burning nature makes these buildings fire-resistant, delaying the spread of flames.
Aesthetically, wooden architecture can be striking. The inherent charm of wood fosters a warm, inviting ambience. Modern techniques, like cross-laminated timber (CLT), enable the construction of complex and intricate structures that were once unattainable with wood.
Wooden architecture also enhances human health and well-being. Research indicates that exposure to wood can alleviate stress and elevate mood. Consequently, wooden buildings foster increased productivity and creativity in workspaces.
However, wooden architecture has challenges. The cost of wood as a primary building material can exceed that of traditional materials. Additionally, concerns regarding insect infestations and decay must be addressed.
Wooden buildings can become cheaper!
Affordable wooden buildings are achievable! Here's how:
Maximize wood utilization
Prioritizing wood and minimizing costly alternatives can slash expenses. For instance, exposed wooden floors and walls can eliminate the need for pricey finishes.
Employ engineered wood products
Laminated veneer lumber (LVL) and CLT can form robust structural components. These cost-effective products are factory-produced, reducing labour costs.
Optimize construction processes
Streamlined construction, standardized designs, and minimal customization can expedite and simplify building, trimming construction time and labour expenses.
Select appropriate wood species
Different species offer varying properties and costs. Opting for abundant, local, and fast-growing species can minimize transportation and material costs.
Adopt prefabricated components
Offsite-manufactured components, like wall panels and roof trusses, can shorten construction time and labour costs.
By refining design, material selection, and construction processes, eco-friendly, cost-effective wooden buildings are possible. As demand for sustainable structures swells, we anticipate further innovations in wooden construction, rendering it more accessible and affordable.
Exquisite looking Wooden Architecture
T3 Minneapolis, USA: A seven-story office building crafted from CLT and glulam beams, renowned for its energy efficiency and eco-friendliness.
Brock Commons Tallwood House, Canada: An 18-story residential tower in Vancouver, among the world's tallest wooden structures, featuring a low carbon footprint.
The Smile, UK: An award-winning, disassemblable curved wooden pavilion in London made from tulipwood CLT panels.
Kulturhus i Skellefteå, Sweden: A Swedish cultural centre constructed entirely of wood, boasting energy efficiency and a low carbon footprint.
Hurlingham Club Racquet Center, UK: A London sports centre with a distinctive wave-like roof design, awarded the RIBA London Sustainability Award in 2020.
Despite the challenges, wooden architecture's benefits prevail. As sustainable building practices gain importance, we anticipate a global increase in wooden structures – from homes and offices to bridges and skyscrapers. Wooden architecture presents an appealing, environmentally conscious choice for builders and designers.
Tomorrow’s build has created an amazing video about: “Why all buildings should be Timber“ (Youtube). It shows projects all over the world. It explains why and how the future should look like if we want to combine a healthy planet and amazing architecture designs.
Want to read more about Wooden Architecture?
Check out some of these articles
Why wood is a sustainable material
The World's 10 Most Incredible Buildings Made Entirely of Wood
