ARCHITECTURAL AND STRUCTURAL FEATURES OF DESIGNING HIGH-RISE BUILDINGS WITH GLUED LAMINATED TIMBER
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33042/2522-1809-2025-3-191-198-204Keywords:
high-rise construction, wooden structures, glued laminated timber, sustainable development, fire resistanceAbstract
The present research investigates the architectural and structural peculiarities of designing high-rise buildings using glued laminated timber (Glulam) and cross-laminated timber (CLT), which represent a new generation of engineered wood products suitable for complex and multi-storey construction. As global urbanization demands more sustainable and resource-efficient solutions, mass timber has emerged as a viable alternative to traditional construction materials such as steel and reinforced concrete, offering benefits in terms of carbon reduction, prefabrication efficiency, and architectural expression.
The study provides a historical overview of timber construction, emphasizing the recent renaissance of wood as a high-performance structural material. It explores the technological innovations that have enhanced the mechanical properties of timber, enabling it to meet contemporary requirements for strength, durability, fire safety, and seismic resilience. Particular attention is paid to the load-bearing capacity, two-way spanning behavior, and hybrid system integration of CLT and Glulam elements in high-rise structures.
Through the analysis of international precedents, including buildings over 10, 20, and even 30 storeys in height, the paper outlines the current design strategies and material systems employed in tall timber construction. Furthermore, the study identifies architectural advantages such as modularity, lightness, and biophilic qualities, which contribute to better indoor environmental quality and occupant well-being.
A critical part of the research focuses on the challenges of implementing such technologies within the Ukrainian regulatory framework. It outlines the existing limitations in fire regulations, structural design norms, and certification procedures, which currently hinder the adoption of mass timber in high-rise buildings. The paper proposes directions for regulatory adaptation and technical standardization to facilitate the integration of timber-based architecture in Ukraine.
The study supports the thesis that high-rise timber construction is both a technically feasible and environmentally desirable pathway for future urban development. The results can be used by architects, engineers, and policymakers to guide the transition toward more sustainable building practices, inform updates to local building codes, and encourage innovation in the Ukrainian construction industry.
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