Timber in the City: Design and Construction in Mass Timber

Wood has regained prominence in the design and construction industries due to innovations in engineering and construction methodologies. Timber in the City documents the imaginings of those in the nascence of their education and practice and the executed work of design professionals at the leading edge of architecture. These designers have rethought the means by which we build and define space through differing deployments of a familiar building material.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 29 September 2021
Publisher: Oro Editions

As synthetic materials continue to dominate our daily lives, from handheld devices to cooking utensils, vehicles, and even shopping bags, the design and construction industries have resorted to embracing the familiar, the conventional: wood. Through innovative engineering and construction methodologies, wood has regained its prominence, offering a timeless and versatile material for various applications.

Technology has played a significant role in the resurgence of wood. It has become widely accessible and often affordable, enabling new and innovative methods of cutting, perforating, assembling, erecting, and fabricating materials. Wood is one such material that has been reimagined by designers across different fields.

Timber in the City, a documentary film, showcases the imaginative visions of individuals in the early stages of their education and practice, as well as the executed work of design professionals at the forefront of architecture. These designers, regardless of their years of experience, have approached wood in unique ways, redefining the way we build and define space through the creative deployment of a familiar building material.

One notable example is the use of wood in contemporary architecture. Architects are exploring new ways to incorporate wood into modern designs, leveraging its natural beauty, durability, and sustainability. They are experimenting with different wood species, finishes, and construction techniques to create buildings that blend seamlessly with their surroundings while minimizing their environmental impact.

Another area where wood is making a comeback is in furniture design. Designers are creating furniture pieces that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, using wood as the primary material. From sleek modern designs to traditional rustic pieces, wood offers a warmth and character that cannot be replicated by other materials.

Furthermore, wood is being used in interior design to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. It can be used for flooring, walls, ceilings, and even furniture, adding a touch of natural beauty to any space. Wood's ability to absorb sound and regulate temperature makes it an ideal material for creating comfortable and energy-efficient environments.

In addition to its practical applications, wood has also become a symbol of sustainability and eco-friendliness. Many designers are choosing wood over other materials because it is a renewable resource that can be sustainably harvested. By using wood, designers are promoting the conservation of forests and the reduction of deforestation, which is crucial for mitigating climate change.

Overall, the resurgence of wood in the design and construction industries is a testament to the versatility and resilience of this natural material. As we continue to embrace synthetic materials, wood offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative that can be used for a wide range of applications. Whether it is in architecture, furniture design, or interior design, wood is poised to remain a prominent material for years to come.

Weight: 580g
Dimension: 223 x 167 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781941806807