Mass timber midrise and highrise construction has been catching on across the globe in recent years. It can be a less expensive option to conventional steel construction and lead to faster construction timelines, while being a more sustainable and fire resistant construction method. Earlier this year, Urbanarium hosted a design competition for mass timber projects. Uytae Lee of About Here ticks through the design entrants and their unique contributions to the competition, showcasing the vast architectural diversity possible with the construction method.
Downtown Mass-Timber Tower Project Meets Resistance at Seattle Landmark Board
Clark/Barnes architects want to transform a landmarked office building at Second Avenue and Pine Street into housing, adding 12 additional stories of mass timber construction to accommodate more homes. The innovative project is meeting significant opposition from nearby residents and historic preservation advocates.

Affordable U District Tower Will Be Seattle’s Tallest Mass Timber Building
The Low Income Housing Institute won the bid to develop Sound Transit’s surplus site near U District Station. The project will bring 160 affordable homes in a 12-story tower that is slated to be the state’s tallest mass timber building.

