This course will explore mass timber applications in hospitality projects, including new allowances under the 2021 International Building Code (IBC) and the structural and aesthetic advantages that translate between
office and hospitality typologies. The presentation will include a look at the prototype building design for a
cross-laminated timber (CLT) hotel and related research by The DLR Group in partnership with the University of Minnesota, Marriott International, Coffman Engineers, Friedman Properties, and SmartLam North America, which received a U.S. Forest Service Wood Innovations Grant. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge to inspire future projects and help resolve common doubts about mass timber as a viable structural option for hotels. Key considerations throughout the presentation include fire protection, acoustics, durability,
longevity, and cost.
Learning Objectives
- Explore how mass timber hotels meet building code requirements, including fire protection design
requirements to ensure safety and durability.
- Learn about the unique challenges related to mass timber acoustic design and how to meet the
acoustic performance expectations of hospitality projects to ensure room-to-room noise control and
occupant comfort.
- Discuss durability and longevity considerations for mass timber hotels that promote structural integrity and safety for occupants over the building’s lifespan.
- Understand how hotel developers view mass timber's value and strategies for addressing common concerns regarding fire safety, cost, and performance.