Researchers from Cambridge University are working with PLP Architecture and engineers Smith and Wallwork to build an 80-storey, 300m-high wooden building.
The development would create over 1,000 new residential units in the Barbican, where Dr Michael Ramage, Director of Cambridge’s Centre for Natural Material Innovation, believes timber and other natural materials have been vastly underused.
“If London is going to survive it needs to increasingly densify.
“One way is taller buildings.
“We believe people have a greater affinity for taller buildings in natural materials rather than steel and concrete towers.
“Nearly every historic building, from King’s College Chapel to Westminster Hall, has made extensive use of timber.”
Kevin Flanagan, Partner at PLP Architecture, said the timber buildings would create a more pleasing, relaxed, sociable and creative urban experience.
“Our firm is currently designing many of London’s tall buildings, and the use of timber could transform the way we build in this city.
“We are excited to be working with the University and with Smith and Wallwork on this groundbreaking design and engineering-based research.”
Michael concluded by saying no one has attempted to build on this scale before.
“We are developing a new understanding of primary challenges in structure and construction.
“There is a lot of work ahead, but we are confident of meeting all the challenges before us.”
Picture attributed to Cambridge University
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