Wood Construction Expands to Multistorey Buildings, Honkarakenne Reports Growth
The construction of multi-storey wooden buildings is on the rise as developers seek more sustainable and efficient solutions. Honkarakenne Oyj is leveraging solid wood for new, larger-scale projects.
Wood construction is extending beyond single-family homes and cabins into larger, multistorey projects. Developers and builders are increasingly opting for solid wood solutions, such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) logs, for apartment buildings, hotels, and comprehensive area developments. This trend is driven by sustainability goals, efficiency in construction, architectural quality, and perceived long-term value.
Modern solid wood technologies, including CLT and hybrid timber structures, are making large-scale wood construction more technically scalable and architecturally adaptable. Honkarakenne's approach allows for the development of apartment buildings and other multi-level structures where wood can be combined with other materials like concrete. Recent projects, such as the planned CLT log hotel in Tornio, demonstrate the successful scaling of timber construction for significant urban and hospitality developments.
The growing popularity of wood in large projects is attributed to its renewable nature and its ability to store carbon throughout a building's lifecycle, aligning with low-carbon construction targets. Responsibly sourced Finnish wood offers a traceable and renewable material option. Furthermore, prefabricated solid wood elements can expedite on-site construction compared to traditional methods, potentially reducing costs and project timelines.
Beyond sustainability and efficiency, wood construction offers a distinct architectural appeal, creating warm and natural interiors. Modern CLT log technology allows for greater design freedom, enabling architects to combine wood with materials like glass, stone, and steel. This versatility makes timber suitable for both urban apartment blocks and high-end resort environments, enhancing the overall attractiveness and value of property developments.