The Business Case for Mass Timber
Course Overview Mass timber is redefining how we design and deliver buildings. This session spotlights two projects at the forefront: The Exchange office building in Kelowna and a planned residential tower in Vancouver. Alongside these case studies, the speakers will present a business case analysis, breaking down costs, risks, and opportunities. Together, the speakers will share how mass timber is being applied today, the lessons learned, and why it is becoming a viable choice for development in today’s market. Learning Objectives Understand the business case drivers for mass timber by evaluating how structure, envelope, schedule, and risk factors influence overall project viability using real project examples (Kelowna office; Vancouver tower planning). Identify constructability and delivery constraints unique to mass timber (e.g., tolerance coordination with concrete cores, moisture/fire exposure concerns, early planning of penetrations/services) and explain how early integration mitigates these risks. Apply project optimization strategies (e.g., floor plate adjustments, balcony strategy, prefabricated wall assemblies, supplier early engagement) to improve cost and schedule competitiveness relative to conventional systems. Course Video Speakers Bio Graham Brewster FDirector of Development Wesgroup Properties Graham is Director of Development at Wesgroup Properties, one of Western Canada’s largest private real estate organizations. Graham is leading Wesgroup’s mass timber exploration and execution, with an eye to not only build better buildings, but building the understanding to build a robust and sustainable industry in BC. Tim McLennan CEO Faction Projects Inc. As co-founder and CEO of Faction Projects Inc., Tim oversees a vertically integrated group of companies including Faction Architecture Inc., Faction Construction, and multiple subsidiaries—delivering full-spectrum project services from concept to construction. He leads the company’s long-term strategy, corporate governance, and financial stewardship. His leadership drives innovation across the group’s project delivery platforms—anchoring Faction’s reputation for integrated, regionally responsive, and technically advanced solutions. Neil McGowan Partner, Senior Advisor BTY Group Neill is a Partner at BTY and is responsible for providing planning and cost consulting services to financial institutions, government agencies, real estate developers and contractors. He has over 35 years of experience in British Columbia providing cost and risk advisory services. Neill is a sustainability leader and has led BTY’s team on a wide variety of projects advancing the understanding of capital and life-cycle costs of energy conservation and GHG-reduction measures for government and institutional clients. Jerry Calara Technical Manager Alberta WoodWORKS! / CWC
Lessons from “The Timber City”
Course Overview The presentation explores the innovative approach undertaken by the municipality of Växjö, Sweden, which aligns sustainable construction practices with the development of smart cities. By leveraging wood as a primary building material, this strategy reduces environmental impact, promotes resource efficiency, and supports the circular economy. The presentation details the integration of prefabricated wooden elements and advanced technologies such as IoT, AI, and digitalization to optimize urban infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for residents. The strategic framework includes collaboration with industry stakeholders, the transition to open innovation, and the establishment of standards and regulations to support long-term sustainable development. The presentation also addresses the municipality’s role in fostering innovation and market opportunities, aiming to transform Växjö into a leading example of a smart, sustainable city. This study contributes to the broader discourse on urban sustainability, providing actionable insights for policymakers, architects, and urban planners committed to developing resilient and environmentally responsible urban environments. Learning Objectives Understanding Sustainable Construction Practices: Attendees will gain insights into the benefits of using wood as a sustainable building material, including its impact on reducing environmental footprints and promoting long-term urban sustainability. Integration of Technology in Urban Development: Participants will learn how modern technologies such as IoT, AI, and digitalization are transforming construction processes and contributing to the development of smart cities. Strategic Planning for Smart Cities: The presentation will provide knowledge on the critical components of a smart city, including energy efficiency, resource management, and the use of advanced technologies to improve the quality of life for residents. Collaboration and Innovation in Urban Development: Attendees will understand the importance of open innovation, collaboration among stakeholders, and the role of municipalities in facilitating sustainable development and market possibilities in the context of sustainable construction and smart cities. Course Video Speakers Bio Fredrik Lindblad Professor Linneaus University Fredrik Lindblad is an accomplished leader with a distinguished career in international business management, strategic development, and logistics. Throughout his career, Fredrik has held key leadership positions globally, including roles at Danzas, DHL, and as the Global Head of Supply Chain at Aramex. Most recently, he served as CEO of Växjö Linnæus Science Park, where he played a crucial role in forging strategic partnerships, driving business growth, and fostering innovation. In addition to his executive roles, Fredrik has held several board-level positions and has been actively engaged as an international consultant, working on projects for governments, NGOs, and non-profit organizations. Fredrik holds a Doctorate in Industrial Engineering and a Licentiate in Economics from Linnaeus University, where he also serves as an Associate Professor. He is a prolific author, with numerous publications in journals such as the Scandinavian Journal of Public Administration, Forest Products Journal, Management and Technology, Wood Material Science and Engineering, and Construction Management and Economics. His research has made contributions to the fields of logistics, supply chain management, and wood construction technology.
International Perspectives on Sustainable Housing Development
Course Overview Around the world there is a significant and growing housing shortage that is exacerbated by rapid urbanization and population growth. This challenge demands innovative solutions that prioritize sustainability, occupant comfort, and efficient land use. This panel discussion brings together three internationally renowned architects: Francine Houben (Mecanoo, the Netherlands), Christophe Ouhayoun (KOZ Architects, France), and Geoff Denton (White Arkitekter, Sweden) to explore their approaches to sustainable housing. Each panelist will share their unique perspective on how to address housing shortages and sustainable densification, offering insights into the latest design strategies, materials, and technologies that can contribute to more resilient and equitable urban environments. Join us for a dynamic conversation that will delve into the future of housing and the role of architecture in creating livable, sustainable cities. Learning Objectives Understand how international architects approach sustainable housing development, including wood‑based construction, urban densification, and low‑carbon strategies. Compare differing regulatory, cultural, and construction‑industry conditions that influence mass timber, modularity, prefabrication, and approval processes in Sweden, France, and Canada. Identify urban‑design principles used to create healthy, community‑oriented neighborhoods. Course Video Speakers Bio Francine Houben Founding Partner, Creative Director Mecanoo, the Netherlands Francine Houben is founding partner of Mecanoo (1984) and has led the firm to success in The Netherlands and abroad, amassing a portfolio of work that is wide-ranging, inspired by global challenges and with a sustainable view on society. Mecanoo combines the disciplines of architecture, urban planning, landscape architecture and interior design to produce unorthodox design solutions born from a strong sensitivity to context and a highly interdisciplinary design process. Each of her projects illustrates the four fundamental elements of her architectural vision: People, Place, Purpose, Poetry. Francine Houben was professor of mobility aesthetics at Delft University of Technology and taught at the universities of Harvard, Yale and Mendrisio. As curator of the First International Architecture Biennale Rotterdam (2003), she brought the theme of the aesthetics of mobility to the forefront of international design consciousness. Francine holds Honorary Fellowships of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) and was granted lifelong membership to the Akademie der Künste in Berlin as well as receiving the International Honorary Fellow Award by the Architecture Institute of Taiwan. In 2014 Francine was named Woman Architect of the Year by the Architects’ Journal and in November 2015 Queen Máxima of The Netherlands presented her with the Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds Prize for her wide-ranging career. Francine was awarded Honorary Doctorates from the Université de Mons, Belgium (2017) and the Utrecht University (2016). In 2018 she received the BNA Kubus Award for her oeuvre; the International Prize, Prix des Femmes Architectes (2019) and distinguished with the TU Delft Alumnus of the Year (2020). In 2024, King Willem-Alexander appointed Francine Houben as a Knight in the Order of the Netherlands Lion. Christophe Ouhayoun Founding Partner Architect KOZ Architects, France Christophe Ouhayoun is a graduate of the École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Paris-Belleville. He currently serves as a State Architect Advisor in the Aveyron department. In 1999, he co-founded KOZ Architectes with Nicolas Ziesel. A pioneer in wood architecture since 2001, he recently delivered Lot E of the Paris 2024 Athletes’ Village as co-coordinator within the Nexity-Eiffage team. In addition to his architectural work, he co-founded: KOZTO, a workshop dedicated to the creation of up-cycled furniture. PLAN01, a collaborative “”second office”” active from 2003 to 2014, in partnership with Atelier du Pont, BP Architectures, and Philéas. PLAN02, an integrated environmental consulting firm. Alongside his private practice, Christophe Ouhayoun works as a visiting professor at the École Nationale Supérieure d’Arts et Métiers and at the École spéciale d’architecture de Paris. Geoff Denton Partner Architect White Arkitekter, Sweden Geoff Denton is an architect and urban designer who has led residential, educational and mixed-use urban design and architectural projects across the UK, Europe and North America. Educated at Sheffield University in the UK, his career in Sweden notably led him to the role of lead architect for the implementation of Greenwich Millennium Village for Ralph Erskine Architect. This project marked the beginning of his focus on socially and environmentally sustainable urban development and regeneration. He joined White Arkitekter in 2011 and is now a partner and member of the board of directors. During his time at White he has led award winning urban design projects and was responsible for starting White Arkitekter’s London Studio. The studio has been built on the goal to share knowledge and experience of sustainable development and offsite fabrication methods used throughout the Nordics. Key projects developed during the first years of the London studio include the Climate Innovation District in Leeds and the Gascoigne estate regeneration in London. Geoff is now based in Stockholm where he works with diverse complex international projects. His approach to architecture is collaborative and he strongly believes that good design solutions are very much about creating places where people feel secure and invigorated.
Advancing North American Mass Timber Projects: Harnessing the Strength of Local Expertise
Course Overview As global adoption of mass timber construction accelerates, a growing number of solutions are available in the marketplace that can contribute to the success of your project. This session, presented by Simpson Strong-Tie, will explore some of the unique challenges faced by North American projects and some of the domestically developed solutions available to meet those challenges. Learning Objectives Understand the need for greater tolerance on concealed beam hangers, the importance of ensuring connectors are easy to install, and the specific requirements for large elements in North American buildings. Understand the advantages domestic suppliers can bring to your project, including the rapid delivery of hardware to job sites. Learn about the necessity for effective installation tools and processes tailored to the scale of large North American projects. Learn about the need for effective moisture mitigation and the systems and strategies that can prevent unnecessary exposure of mass timber to the elements during construction. Course Video Speaker Bio Adrian Mitchell Chair of Simpson’s internal Mass Timber Focus Market Committee Simpson Strong-Tie Adrian is a mass timber and off-site business specialist with a principal focus on the rapidly expanding mass timber segment, for which he serves as Chair of Simpson’s internal Mass Timber Focus Market Committee. Adrian has spent the bulk of his 20-year career in the off-site, mass timber, and modular spaces, primarily as a business development leader and private consultant. With professional experiences ranging from heavy civil, oil and gas, high-end custom homes to large-scale mass timber missed-use projects and artificial intelligence in BIM, he has a unique and well-rounded background in wood and steel applications in off-site construction. Adrian is a native of Vancouver, Canada, and a graduate of the British Columbia Institute of Technology’s School of Business, he enjoys all the typical Canadian pastimes like playing hockey, building things from wood, and mountain biking.
