"Timber Typologies" is the first installment in a series of three books set to be released in the coming months.

Homebuilding

Timber Development UK launches guide on low carbon timber construction

Timber Development UK launches guide on low carbon timber construction

Image: Timber Development UK

Timber Development UK launched a new publication called "Timber Typologies". This comprehensive guide aims to provide developers, investors, and policy makers with insights into the various low-carbon timber construction options and methodologies available. Developed in collaboration with renowned "timber first" architects, Waugh Thistleton Architects, the book serves as a primer for understanding the diverse range of timber solutions.

"Timber Typologies" is the first installment in a series of three books set to be released in the coming months. It offers a valuable overview of timber benefits, timber components, and timber systems, encompassing lightweight timberframe and mass timber solutions. By clarifying the distinctions and suitability of different timber building types, this publication empowers decision makers to make informed choices that yield optimal outcomes.

David Hopkins, the CEO of Timber Development UK, emphasized the critical role of timber in decarbonizing the construction industry. He stressed the need for specific discussions on the various timber systems and approaches available, along with the associated benefits and risks. Hopkins expressed concern that progress is hindered when clients, architects, and policy makers are not aligned in their understanding of timber construction.

Alastair Ogle, an associate at Waugh Thistleton Architects and one of the lead authors of the book, highlighted the prevalence of misinformation and misunderstanding surrounding timber. He pointed out that many stakeholders, including clients, local authorities, and insurers, fail to grasp that "timber" encompasses a wide range of distinct build systems with unique properties. Ogle reaffirmed the commitment to promoting low-carbon building practices and stressed the importance of increasing market-wide understanding to foster confidence in designing, permitting, insuring, and constructing future low-carbon timber buildings.

In addition to "Timber Typologies," Timber Development UK will soon release two more books: "Timber Policy," which explores the strategies employed by countries and city authorities worldwide to encourage timber construction, and "Timber LCA," which examines lifecycle analysis comparisons between buildings constructed using different materials. Together, these publications aim to support the growth of sustainable timber construction and facilitate a global shift towards low-carbon building practices.