The concept of taller wood structures has captured widespread attention. Some see expanding timber use as one of the few ways to reach ambitious carbon reduction goals; others are inspired by new aesthetic opportunities—but Lendlease, an international construction and development firm, sees the use of mass timber for mid- and high-rise structures as a way to build higher quality buildings, faster and safer. As one of the most experienced contractors of mass timber buildings in the US, Lendlease will offer insights on a proposed change to the 2021 International Building Code that would see increased height and story allowances for mass timber structures.

Learning Objectives:

1. Review worldwide mass timber project examples built by Lendlease, comparing construction techniques and carbon advantages to traditional building methods.
2. Understand the ICC Ad Hoc Committee’s code change proposal for the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) that could allow taller wood buildings.
3. Learn where to find information and research that supports the new 2021 IBC Code change.
4. Recognize how mass timber for mid- and high-rise structures provides for higher quality buildings to be constructed faster and safer.

Funding provided in part by the Softwood Lumber Board.