Humans are naturally drawn to the beauty of wood. Lately, we've embraced the positive carbon benefits of wood construction as well. While building codes have allowed taller and bigger mass timber buildings for a variety of uses, considerable challenges remain in designing and building life science buildings with wood. This session will take a deep dive into these design problems and share critical insights into the performance and life cycle impacts of various construction methods. Join us to explore how long-span mass timber innovation could reduce the carbon footprint of life science buildings and introduce biophilic aesthetics to lab spaces.
Learning Objectives
- Investigate the unique structural engineering requirements of life science buildings and innovative solutions that impact whole life carbon.
- Analyze the global-warming potential of mass timber design and why this approach can significantly reduce material use and carbon footprint.
- Examine critical design issues related to MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) integration, structural systems, and IEQ (indoor environmental quality) with a focus on daylight harvesting and biophilic interiors and ensuring comprehensive sustainability.
- Learn how to apply modular planning principles to mass timber buildings for flexibility and adaptability during design and construction and through occupancy of the facility and beyond.