Flexible and lightweight
Because wood is lightweight, it is easier to transport efficiently and assemble quickly while reducing the need for heavy, costly foundations at the same time.
Construction of wood: practical benefits and environmentally-conscious choices
Construction has long been dominated by steel and concrete but now wood – deeply rooted in our history of construction – is making a remarkable comeback. Find out more about this fascinating resurgence.
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The growing interest in wood in construction is not just a trend: it is about the integration of sustainability and beauty. Within our company, we have experts from every discipline actively working on the integration of wood in contemporary construction projects. They are busy researching the possibilities of using wood in the construction sector by applying their knowledge and experience.
Properties and benefits
When considering wood as a building material, traditional wooden structures such as attractive Scandinavian log cabins often spring to mind first. However, modern applications of wood go a lot further than that. It has established itself as a leading material in the construction of contemporary housing and office buildings and now complex commercial construction too.
Natural sustainability
Wood grows naturally, absorbs CO2 and supports a healthy carbon cycle which is essential for sustainable construction.
Warm ambience
The natural beauty of wood enriches any environment, creating a warm, inviting ambience and actively promoting the wellbeing of users.
Circular economy
Wooden constructions are ideal for reuse and recycling and crucial for future innovative and sustainable circular building practices.
Circularity and construction of wood
When wood is used responsibly – by avoiding the use of varnishes, sealants or glues, for example – it increases the potential for reuse. This fits in seamlessly with the principles of the circular economy where materials are reused or recycled without losing their value at the end of their service life. Wood makes biobased and ecological construction possible – even with near zero emissions. So not only can we ensure a more sustainable construction sector but we can actively build a greener, vibrant future for all.
By designing wooden structures that can be dismantled, we avoid permanent glues and promote a future where sustainability is central to every building project.
By moving away from traditional construction methods, we are forced to think innovatively and design buildings that meet today’s requirements and standards.
We have been commissioned by the Municipality of Amsterdam to create the first wooden office building, a stunning example of modern wooden architecture and a representative showpiece for ecological awareness.
Challenges in construction of wood
Wood has a natural beauty, contributes to sustainable building practices and adds a warmth that few other materials can bring. However, the use of wood in modern building projects is not without its challenges. Issues regarding noise and vibration nuisance and fire safety are legitimate concerns that are taken seriously by professionals within the sector and can be resolved by taking appropriate measures.But as with any challenge, it also brings opportunities. These potential stumbling blocks stimulate innovation, and with the right expertise and vision, they can be turned into solutions. If material is designed specifically, wood can fulfil a central role in the creation of innovative building concepts. It pushes the boundaries of traditional construction and provides opportunities for sustainable and inspiring architecture.
Wood in action
After overcoming the above-mentioned challenges, numerous projects have demonstrated how wood can be used in an innovative and sustainable way. The versatility of wood is beautifully demonstrated in various buildings which we have played a part in. Here are some examples:Tilburg University educational building
This is a prime example of how wood can be used in modern architecture. The building focuses strongly on circularity and the materials chosen for it have a minimal impact on our environment. The wood that has been used here is not varnished, sealed or glued which means that it can easily be reused, thus enhancing the sustainability of the project. Choosing wood also enables you to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for an educational environment where students spend a lot of their time.
©Powerhouse Company
Amsterdam traffic control centre
Another notable achievement in construction of wood is the new traffic control centre in Amsterdam. This building intended for people who manage traffic tunnels 24/7 was designed to provide a calming and stress-reducing environment. The predominantly wooden structure helps create a peaceful atmosphere which is essential for employees who deal with traffic congestion and safety on a daily basis. By choosing wood, the design team has created a functional space that not only meets the operational requirements but also promotes the wellbeing of the users. Thus this project demonstrates how wood can help create a healthy work environment in urban settings.
Staatsbosbeheer visitor centre
This project fits in perfectly with the mission of Staatsbosbeheer, an organisation committed to preserving nature and planting trees. It was almost a given that wood would be the primary building material for their visitor centre. Here, wood serves not only as a building material but also as a symbol of the values and goals of the organisation. The visitor centre serves not only as an information point for visitors but also as a living example of how wood can be used sustainably in building projects.
The examples show that wood is not only an aesthetically pleasing material but also a functional and sustainable alternative to traditional building materials. Its ability to store CO2, combined with its renewable nature, makes wood an excellent choice for projects that are intended to be both attractive and environmentally-friendly.
Want to find out more?
Do you want wood to be central to your next project? Or on future-proof & adaptive buildings? Then talk to us. Contact us today.
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