In the heart of Denmark, a groundbreaking venture is taking shape that promises to redefine the construction industry's approach to sustainable building. The "Build-in-Wood Demonstrator," a novel test and demonstration facility, is currently under construction at the Danish Technological Institute, a stone's throw from the vibrant city of Copenhagen. This initiative is a beacon of innovation and collaboration, spearheaded by an EU-supported Horizon 2020 project that unites 21 partners from across the spectrum of wood construction.
A Blueprint for the Future
Spread over two stories and encompassing 340 m2, the Demonstrator is more than just a building; it's a vision made tangible. Crafted from glulam columns and beams, CLT (Cross-Laminated Timber) floor slabs, and lightweight wooden façade elements, it stands as a testament to what the future of construction could look like. This structure is not merely an architectural feat but a showcase of the "Build-in-Wood" building system—a culmination of collective European innovation aimed at pushing the boundaries of wood construction.
Modular Innovation
At its core, the Build-in-Wood system is designed to be versatile, catering to the diverse needs of residential and commercial buildings across Europe. It's a modular marvel, allowing for customization to meet the specific performance criteria of various projects. Beyond its structural capabilities, the system is engineered for sustainability, encouraging the reuse, retrofitting, and extension of existing buildings. This approach not only addresses the technical challenges of building with timber, such as fire safety, moisture management, and sound insulation but also paves the way for low-carbon, sustainable development.
Testing the Timber of Tomorrow
The Demonstrator is set to serve as a living laboratory, where the Build-in-Wood system will be put through its paces. It offers a unique platform for industry stakeholders to explore and evaluate innovative building materials, components, and systems in real-world conditions. From acoustics and indoor climate to insulation efficiency and moisture resistance, the project aims to gather invaluable data that could revolutionize how we build with wood.
Wood and bio-based materials are poised to play a pivotal role in the construction industry's sustainable evolution. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, the Build-in-Wood Demonstrator is a step towards addressing and overcoming these hurdles. With its capacity for easy disassembly and reconfiguration, the building is not just a structure but a dynamic research tool that will provide insights into new solutions and practices.
A Digital Companion
Adding a layer of innovation, the project includes a digital twin of the building, equipped with sensors to monitor vital parameters like moisture content. This digital counterpart will enable predictive maintenance and offer a glimpse into the effects of technical alterations on the building's performance.
The significance of such test buildings cannot be overstated. With several companies already keen on utilizing the Demonstrator for their own research and documentation, it's clear that this initiative is at the forefront of a significant shift in the construction paradigm. Looking forward, it's expected to be a cornerstone for both national and international research and innovation efforts.
Fast Facts
Building owner: Danish Technological Institute (DK)
Architect: Waugh Thistleton Architects (UK)
Contractor: Adserballe & Knudsen (DK)
Construction Start: February 2024
Estimated construction period: 6 months
As we stand on the cusp of a sustainable construction revolution, the Build-in-Wood Demonstrator is not just building a structure; it's building a future. A future where timber leads the way in green building practices, heralding an era of eco-friendly, innovative construction that benefits our planet and its people.