Wooden Skyscrapers explores the innovative use of mass timber construction in modern architecture, presenting wood as a viable, sustainable alternative to steel and concrete. It examines how advancements in engineered wood products, like CLT and glulam, are making high-rise wood buildings possible, offering a path toward decarbonizing the built environment. The book highlights the potential of wood to not only reduce upfront carbon emissions but also to sequester carbon within the building's structure, contributing to a more sustainable future.
The book begins by establishing the history of timber construction and the science behind wood's structural properties and fire resistance. It then delves into the sustainability aspects of wood, including carbon sequestration and reduced energy consumption during production, comparing these factors to the environmental impacts of traditional materials. Through case studies and life cycle assessments, Wooden Skyscrapers provides a balanced perspective on the environmental and economic implications of wooden skyscrapers and their feasibility as a solution to urban housing needs.
Finally, the book addresses architectural and design considerations, such as fire safety and acoustics, and concludes with a discussion of the future of wooden skyscrapers, including potential challenges and policy recommendations. This approach provides a comprehensive view, making it a valuable resource for architects, engineers, and anyone interested in the intersection of sustainable architecture and environmental science.
