Timber Towers on the Rise

With the call for more sustainable practices in the building industry, and the increasing rise of concrete prices, timber is quickly becoming a highly sought after building material. The cost of cement, concrete, and sand products have increased by 16.2% over the past year, whilst timber pricing dropped 4.4%, and steel dropped 10%.

Timber has been used in construction dating back to pre-civilisation, 100 BC and is a sustainable, regenerative material. According to Verified Market Research, the global timber frame construction market in 2021 was valued at USD 887.49 million, and is projected to reach USD 1.6 billion by 2030.

Australia is embracing this shift towards timber construction with Atlassian’s hybrid timber headquarters in central Sydney currently under construction, and expected to reach a height of 180 metres. The building will be approximately 40 storeys high. Atlassian has chosen New York-based SHoP architects, and Australian practice BVN as their design team. Their groundbreaking design consists of timber, with a glass and steel façade that will include a mix of outdoor and indoor spaces. The building will use an energy-efficient approach, featuring natural ventilation and large planted terraces, allowing access to nature.

Perth in Western Australia is set to make history by becoming home to the world’s tallest timber building. Located on 6 Charles Street, C6 – aptly named after the periodic table’s symbol for carbon – penetrates the clouds at 191.2 metres tall and will boast an impressive 50-storeys. The building will comprise a substantial 42% timber, including beams, floor panels, studs, joinery, and linings, signifying the remarkable shift being made towards eco-conscious buildings. C6’s lofty ambition is seen as revolutionary in an industry that has scarcely changed over the past 70 years.

At a time where the construction industry is responsible for 11% of global carbon emissions, and cement 8% of all carbon emissions, it is exciting to see the building industry adopting more sustainable methods.

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Image source – C6 Concept Design by Fraser & Partners: https://www.fraserandpartners.com.au/