Haldane UK’s Post

Principal Donald Schmitt is speaking at the 2025 Ottawa Wood Solutions Conference on Wednesday, February 5, at 1pm EST, where he will be presenting the firm’s rejuvenation of the National Arts Centre | Centre national des Arts in Ottawa. In his talk Prefabrication Makes Perfect: Design and Manufacturing Excellence Converge in the National Arts Centre’s Revitalization, Don will discuss the transformative rejuvenation and expansion of the National Arts Centre (NAC) in Ottawa, with a focus on the prefabricated timber structure that has been integrated in the existing building — a tessellated roof composed of triangular wood coffers that is sympathetic to the original Brutalist concrete aesthetic — while infusing the space with natural warmth.   Don will share how the prefabrication of these wood elements ensured precision and quality, while expediting on-site assembly and minimizing construction disruptions. His talk will explore how this innovative use of timber not only transformed the NAC’s architecture but also underscores a commitment to sustainable building practices. Register to the 2025 Ottawa Wood Solutions Conference here: https://lnkd.in/eTQPx7aA #diamondschmitt #masstimber

Unconventional architecture requires unique formwork concepts, posing a challenge that we gladly accepted, with the construction of the tallest building in Germany used exclusively for residential purposes: the Grand Tower in Frankfurt am Main. 🏢 🏗️ The construction of the 180-metre high building brought with it a multitude of challenges. For example, the ambitious, diamond-shaped floor plan changes from storey to storey. Instead of repeating the layout of the flats on each floor and placing the flat entrances one above the other, the architects opted for different floor plans that alternate according to a predefined pattern. The solution provided by our formwork experts: The building core was constructed independently of the residential units with their varying floor plans. Thanks to precise and customised planning, the project was completed on time and on budget. 🎯 #moresafety #moreproductivity #AtWorkForYou #Hünnebeck

Delve Architects makes the most of cork’s thermal, acoustic and sustainability properties in a house extension, which uses it for cladding and insulation https://ow.ly/F9IN50Ua2zO

🪵 Timber Solutions for Next-Level Performance From energy-efficient design to bold architectural statements, Unicel Architectural’s Timber Curtain Walls redefine what’s possible in sustainable construction. Learn how we’re setting new standards in design, performance, and sustainability: https://heyor.ca/5Px3vS #TimberDesign #SustainableArchitecture #UnicelArchitectural

As timber specialists, we often collaborate with architectural firms in both consulting and subcontracting roles. We've heard from architects that they sometimes struggle with integrating mass timber instead of traditional materials like steel and concrete, due to challenges in finding measurable specifications. Often, timber is used as an aesthetic afterthought to wrap columns or incorporate box beams, which unnecessarily doubles the cost of materials and labor. Similarly, traditional stick-framed buildings may include additional faux trusses, again increasing resource and labor costs. Many view timber as a premium option but overlook the significant cost savings it can bring to a project's final budget. If this resonates with you, we should talk!  

This is a building that really should be monitored - with a comprehensive set of questions framed around various key aspects- then shared - for us to all learn from. Will it? - Weathering and longevity of the external timber elements (the article mentioned the specific buildup, but doesn't talk about weathering and longevity specifically) - fire spread of course, although this looks like it has been carefully assessed - proper Lifetime carbon calculation - how effective is the natural ventilation approach over time - Energy consumption, specifically space heat consumption Else, if we don't learn, this is no more than an icon

Subtle Architecture As a rule, we are driven by a desire to see architecture and construction produced faster to meet an increasingly challenging need for sufficient housing, healthcare and public spaces. Then, we see something simple and sublime that offers an alternative. Commonbond Architects in Sheffield and London still uses hand-sketched drawings and physical models. They work closely with their customers to craft spaces that fit comfortably and cleanly. Ironically, this enables them to consider materials like timber and hempcrete, which we believe at scale have promise to dramatically reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and reduce our carbon footprint. It reminds us that the general belief in the need for digitalization in design does not replace the need for an understanding of the physicality of the medium. https://loom.ly/4K_cUm8 #architecture #desigh #housing Ben Harris-Hutton Graham Mateer

Have You Heard of Dragon Ties in Historic Buildings? When we think about historic buildings, we often admire their charm and beauty, but behind the scenes, there’s some incredible engineering that keeps them standing. One fascinating feature found in older timber-framed buildings is the dragon tie. So, what is a dragon tie? It’s a diagonal timber beam used in the corners of buildings, particularly in medieval and Tudor timber-framed houses. Its purpose is to support the structure where walls meet at right angles, helping to distribute the roof load and strengthen the frame. Think of it as an early (and elegant) form of reinforcement! Dragon ties allowed builders to achieve larger overhangs – those striking jettied upper floors that give historic buildings their iconic look. As we work to preserve these structures today, it’s a reminder of how traditional building techniques still inspire modern solutions. Does anyone know why they are referred to a dragon ties? There are a few theories…….. #HistoricBuildings #Architecture #TraditionalCraftsmanship #TimberFrame #BuildingConservation #Engineering

Excited to see College Road and Ten Degrees featured in Architectural Record! Designed by HTA Design with Tide and Vision, these projects highlight the efficiency and sustainability of modular construction. Standing at 440 and 540 feet tall, College Road and Ten Degrees are among the tallest modular buildings in the world. Built with reinforced concrete podiums and cores, each building incorporates materials like terra-cotta cladding, blending seamlessly into their urban surroundings. With 40–60 modules installed weekly, both projects were completed ahead of schedule in just over two years. As Simon Bayliss, HTA’s Managing Partner, notes: “We focus on quality, driving down costs by reducing defects and waste, with faster delivery and higher-performing systems.” To read the whole article press on the link below: https://lnkd.in/gVX75iT7 #HTADesign #ModularConstruction #CollegeRoad #TenDegrees #UrbanInnovation

Raum Architects transform a 1960s Gower property using Catnic Urban roofing and cladding, delivering a durable, stylish solution tailored for coastal conditions. Read ▶️ https://lnkd.in/eyi5CZJy #SelfBuildHomes #SelfbuilderHomemaker #SelfBuild #SustainableDesign #HomeRenovation #CoastalLiving #ModernArchitecture