Once completed in July, Texas will have its first full mass timber building in the First United Bank building. In addition to being the first full mass timber building in the state, the 8,500 sf building will also be the first retail mass timber structure in the state and the first mass timber structure in the country to use Southern Yellow Pine CLT panels.
Gensler, the project’s architect, decided to use Southern Yellow Pine over the typical Douglas Fir because it is a native species prevalent to Texas and surrounding southern states, which opens the possibilities for using true local natural resources for future projects.
Courtesy Gensler.
See Also: Real-world wellness pays off
The mass timber elements used in the First United Bank in Fredericksburg were completed 60% faster than traditional construction. Southern Yellow Pine glulam beams and columns are being used in the bank’s construction. The glulam beams will be left exposed along with CLT panels in the lobby, community room, office spaces, and exterior overhang.
The project is designed as a net zero structure, producing as much energy as it consumes on a yearly basis.
Courtesy Gensler.
Courtesy Gensler.
Courtesy Gensler.
Related Stories
Sustainability | Apr 4, 2017
Six connected CLT towers create an urban forest in India
The mixed-use towers would each rise 36 stories into the sky and connect via rooftop skybridges.
Wood | Mar 16, 2017
Wood wall system delivers that rich, natural look
The use of Douglas fir glulam beams can obviate the need for steel beams, even for walls up to 14 feet in height.
Wood | Mar 2, 2017
These are the 2017 WoodWorks Wood Design Award winners
Winners were selected in categories such as wood school design, commercial wood design, wood in government buildings, and green building with wood.
Wood | Jan 13, 2017
Steel and concrete's take on tall wood
The American Institute of Steel Construction contends that the steel industry is a “world leader” in using recycled material and end-of-life recycling, and has made strides to lower greenhouse gas emissions below regulatory requirements.
Game Changers | Jan 12, 2017
Mass timber: From 'What the heck is that?' to 'Wow!'
The idea of using mass timber for tall buildings keeps gaining converts.
Wood | Nov 1, 2016
Oregon lumber provider unveils mass plywood panel for tall wood structures
Designed as an alternative for cross laminated timber (CLT), MPP is a large-scale plywood panel with maximum finished panel dimensions up to 12 feet wide by 48 feet long and up to 24 inches thick.
Wood | Nov 1, 2016
Norway Spruce approved for wall studs, floor and ceiling joists, industrial applications
The species is first new U.S.-grown softwood to be tested for strength values since 1920s.
Sponsored | Wood | Oct 26, 2016
Compelling conversations about wood: East and West Coast regional challenges
Fast-rising designers Ben Kasdan and Blake Jackson offer candid perspectives from both coasts on the merits—and challenges—of designing with wood and compare notes on how architects can change perceptions by dreaming big and pushing boundaries.
Sponsored | Wood | Oct 13, 2016
Engineered wood provides sustainable options, cost savings, and design flexibility
Designers choose engineered wood to deliver strength, stability, and a sustainable solution for complex structural designs
Wood | Oct 13, 2016
Concept from Perkins+Will could become the world’s tallest timber tower
River Beech Tower is said to be a part of a masterplan along the Chicago River.
