If you had asked a room of architects a decade ago whether a 10-story timber building could stand tall in a seismic hotspot, most would have dismissed the idea as fanciful—if not outright reckless. Yet today, Vancouver’s Hive rises as a striking counterpoint, its honeycomb exoskeleton and timber braced frame system challenging both convention and gravity. What changed? And how did a material once relegated to low-rise construction become the centerpiece of one of North America’s most ambitious urban projects?

For Ryan McClanaghan of DIALOG , the answer is as much about community as it is about engineering. “There’s something about this material and this way of thinking about a project that really captured my imagination,” he recalls of his early exposure to mass timber in Europe. That initial spark—fueled by open collaboration and a willingness to rethink the fundamentals—set him on a path from novice to innovator, culminating in a project that demonstrates what can happen when design, sustainability, and resilience converge.

From Novice to Innovator: Ryan McClanaghan's Journey into Mass Timber

A single encounter with a new material can redirect an entire career. For Ryan McClanaghan, that moment arrived during his studies at the University of Toronto, where early exposure to mass timber set the stage for a transformative path. His formative work term in Berlin, immersed in the European timber scene, catalyzed a fascination that would later position him as a leader in North American mass timber design with The Hive.

“There’s something about this material and this way of thinking about a project that really captured my imagination.” Ryan’s early intrigue was fueled by witnessing projects like a mass timber office building in Helsinki—examples that demonstrated both the technical and cultural momentum of timber in Europe. Returning to Canada with Dialogue, his growing expertise soon converged with the opportunity to lead the design of The Hive.

Rethinking Structure: The Hive’s Perimeter-Driven Timber System

Few North American projects have so thoroughly reimagined the structural logic of mass timber as The Hive. Rather than defaulting to a concrete core, the design team shifted the primary structural elements to the building’s perimeter, unlocking new architectural and engineering possibilities.

“What if we did an all-wood structure above L2?” This question reframed the project’s ambitions, resulting in a 10-story Vancouver building whose cellular exoskeleton and timber braced frame system serve both as expressive façade and as the backbone of its seismic resilience. The integration of timber shear walls and buckling restraint braces demonstrates how mass timber can perform at scale—not just as a material of warmth, but as a robust structural solution.

The Hive’s biophilic strategies—from cascading balconies to generous daylighting—are not mere aesthetic gestures. They are embedded in the building’s structural DNA, with the unique geometry of the façade channeling forces efficiently while fostering occupant well-being. As Ryan notes, “The unique geometry of the building facade carries the forces that act on it, creating a harmonious relationship between form and function.”

This perimeter-driven approach set the stage for the project’s next major challenge: seismic performance in a demanding context.

Navigating Seismic Challenges: Engineering Resilience

Vancouver’s seismic profile demands more than conventional solutions, especially for mass timber structures. The Hive’s design team confronted this directly, seeking to minimize concrete use while meeting stringent performance criteria.

“We only wanted to use concrete as much as we needed to get out of the ground.” This guiding principle led to a predominantly timber superstructure above the second level. The team’s close collaboration with structural engineers yielded a lateral system built around timber buckling restraint braces—an approach that satisfied seismic codes and reinforced the building’s architectural identity.

“We are well above what the performance needs to be,” Ryan explains, underscoring the project’s commitment to both safety and technical rigor. The integration of seismic resilience into the building’s visual language exemplifies how engineering and design ambition can reinforce one another.

The complexity of these challenges required a project culture built on trust and shared expertise—a theme that would define the next phase of The Hive’s development.

Collaboration: The Heart of Successful Mass Timber Projects

When technical ambition meets construction reality, the difference between success and failure often lies in the quality of collaboration. The Hive’s progress depended on a tightly integrated team of architects, engineers, and builders, each contributing specialized knowledge to solve unprecedented problems.

“Teams make projects go,” Ryan emphasizes, reflecting on the necessity of open communication and mutual respect. The project’s unique features—perimeter bracing, exposed timber, and complex connections—demanded iterative problem-solving and a willingness to adapt as new challenges emerged.

“How you solve problems together collaboratively is important,” he notes, highlighting the value of collective intelligence over individual heroics. This ethos extended beyond the core team, as Ryan actively sought input from peers across the industry, reinforcing a culture where knowledge-sharing accelerates progress.

The collaborative momentum built on The Hive would soon propel Ryan into a broader network of mass timber innovators, both locally and abroad.

Learning from the Best: A Journey of Knowledge and Networking

Access to global expertise can accelerate innovation far beyond what’s possible in isolation. Ryan’s deliberate outreach to leaders in mass timber—through site visits, conferences, and direct conversations—provided a foundation of technical insight and professional relationships that shaped his approach to The Hive and beyond.

“I was amazed by the number of doors that opened, the people I met, and the meaningful connections I made.” These experiences not only expanded his technical repertoire but also embedded him in a community where ideas and lessons circulate freely. Ryan encourages peers to seek out these opportunities: “If you can do it, get out in the world and visit some timber projects.”

By immersing himself in the international mass timber community, Ryan gained a nuanced understanding of both the material’s potential and its limitations—knowledge that would inform his approach to hybrid systems and sustainability.

The Future of Mass Timber: Hybrid Approaches and Sustainability

As mass timber matures, the conversation is shifting from material purity to strategic integration. The next frontier lies in hybrid systems that combine timber, concrete, and steel, each deployed where it performs best.

“We love timber and we want to use it in the right places and as much as possible.” This pragmatic philosophy underpins projects like the 19-story hybrid mass timber tower now underway in Vancouver, where timber’s strengths are complemented by other materials to achieve both performance and cost targets.

The adoption of life cycle analysis (LCA) as a design tool—not just a reporting requirement—enables teams to make evidence-based decisions about material selection and environmental impact. “I’m excited about this LCA process not as reporting but as a design tool to make good choices along the way,” Ryan explains, pointing to a future where sustainability is embedded in the earliest design moves, not appended at the end.

This evolution in practice is inseparable from the networks and communities that sustain it—a point Ryan returns to as he considers the broader movement.

Building Momentum: Community, Knowledge, and the Next Chapter

The rapid advancement of mass timber is not the result of isolated breakthroughs, but of a growing community committed to rigorous exchange and shared ambition. Ryan’s experience demonstrates that the most significant progress occurs when expertise is pooled and lessons are openly shared.

“If you’re curious about it, if you’re interested, you’re asking good questions. People love to talk about what they’re up to,” he observes, underscoring the accessibility of the mass timber community to those willing to engage.

As the industry moves toward more complex hybrid systems and deeper sustainability metrics, the need for robust professional networks and transparent dialogue will only intensify. The future of mass timber will be shaped not just by technical innovation, but by the willingness of practitioners to collaborate across disciplines and geographies.

In the end, The Hive stands as a case study in how seismic innovation, collaborative culture, and a commitment to sustainable hybrid systems can converge in a single project. The real measure of progress lies not in isolated achievements, but in the capacity of the field to continually integrate new knowledge, challenge assumptions, and build structures—and communities—that endure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How did The Hive’s structural system differ from typical North American mass timber projects? The Hive moved primary structural elements to the building’s perimeter, using a cellular exoskeleton and timber braced frame system rather than a conventional concrete core.

What strategies were used to address Vancouver’s seismic requirements with minimal concrete? The design team created a predominantly timber superstructure above level two, incorporating timber buckling restraint braces and shear walls to meet and exceed seismic performance standards.

How did collaboration influence the project’s technical and construction outcomes? A tightly integrated team of architects, engineers, and builders engaged in open communication and iterative problem-solving, enabling solutions to unique challenges like perimeter bracing and complex connections.

What role did international knowledge exchange play in shaping The Hive’s design approach? Ryan McClanaghan’s outreach to European mass timber experts through site visits and direct conversations provided technical insights and professional relationships that informed the project’s structural strategies and hybrid system integration.

How is sustainability addressed in The Hive and subsequent projects?The team uses life cycle analysis (LCA) as a design tool to guide material selection and environmental impact, and embraces hybrid systems that combine timber, concrete, and steel to optimize both performance and sustainability.

Lam-Wood Systems, Inc. , led by CEO Luke Ringenberg and COO Jeremy Crandall , offers a streamlined approach to construction that emphasizes coordination and efficiency. Their recent work on the Dharma Chan Monastery serves as a prime example of how a single-supplier model can enhance project outcomes for architects, engineers, and contractors alike.

The Benefits of a Coordinated Approach

In the construction industry, the integration of various materials and systems can often lead to complications. However, Lam-Wood Systems has adopted a model that simplifies this process by acting as a single supplier for multiple components. This approach allows for coordinated CNC files, multi-supplier networks & options, and a unified contract - which significantly reduces the risk of miscommunication and errors during construction and offers unparalleled flexibility + compatibility with materials.

As Ringenberg explains, “On the GC side, they get to write one contract for a whole myriad of material. On the owner’s side, it allows us to better coordinate the building because all those materials are housed under one contract with one entity.” This streamlined process not only enhances efficiency but also mitigates risks associated with project management.

Lam-Woods AEC Recommendations for Project Success

• Write one contract, not five. Using a single POC for CLT, glulam, joists, trusses, steel and connections. Fewer sign-offs, no scope-gap finger-pointing, and a quicker start on site.
• Demand a single CNC/BIM model—owned by the supplier. When Lam-Wood carries the digital twin (and the liability), suppliers of all materials cut exactly what’s drawn and field crews stop chasing down solutions to inaccurate dimensions.
• Test their “pivot capacity.” Ask upfront: “If my design or schedule shifts, how many suppliers can you swap to without chaos?” Multi-supplier networks turn late tweaks into hiccups, not heart attacks.
• Push inventory financing upstream. Lam-Wood pays the supplier upfront and holds the material until erection, and both sides win: producers enjoy immediate cash flow and full production queues, while owners and GCs keep their working capital free.
• Use design-assist engineers early, not after bid. Lam-Wood’s in-house team solves connection clashes in schematic/DD, so GCs aren’t writing change orders..
• Compare full systems, not price per square foot. Fold erection speed, loan carry, and rent considerations into your pro-forma; the cost differences in raw material often collapses at NOI.

The Dharma Chan Monastery: A Case Study in Success

From day one, the Dharma Chan Monastery was a project built on trust, clarity, and tight coordination. The design team, general contractor, and Lam-Wood Systems aligned early in the process around a shared understanding: a structure this complex—blending spiritual intent with hybrid systems—would only succeed with precise integration between architecture, engineering, and supply.

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The building incorporated a diverse mix of materials: deep-depth I-joists from RedBuilt were used to span the crawl space; Microllam® LSL studs and plated roof trusses supported the monks’ living quarters; and sections of the roof combined multiple framing approaches, including LSL wall studs and wood trusses. Lam-Wood’s role was to harmonize these components under a single coordinated model—one contract, one set of shop drawings, one source of accountability.

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But the true signature of the project—and the moment that delivered what Luke Ringenberg called the “honeypot”—was the exposed glulam beams, CLT panels, and hybrid glulam-HSS columns. These elements weren’t just structurally integral; they were the emotional and architectural centerpiece of the building. As Luke put it, they were “integral to the wow factor”, creating a serene, material-rich experience that helped the monastery nestle effortlessly into its high-desert surroundings.

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Lam-Wood’s contribution didn’t stop at procurement. Their team worked closely with the architect to advise on finish selections and material behavior, tailoring recommendations to Colorado’s high-desert climate. “It’s not heavy rainfall—it’s intense sun, dry air,” said Jeremy Crandall. “You need to ask: what’s going to weather well here?” That input directly influenced detailing choices for exposed end-grain, joint transitions, and coatings—ensuring durability without compromising design intent.

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The Dharma Chan Monastery shows what’s possible when a project moves beyond the conventional vendor model. With Lam-Wood acting as a true collaborator—bridging design, engineering, and production—the result wasn’t just technically sound; it was deeply aligned with the client’s spiritual and aesthetic vision. In a region where building materials are constantly tested by the elements, the monastery stands as proof that early coordination, flexible sourcing, and climate-specific design can turn complexity into clarity—and elevate a structure into something sacred.

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Streamlined Design and Engineering Support

One of the key advantages of working with Lam-Wood Systems is their in-house design and engineering support. By employing a team of engineers, Lam-Wood can provide valuable insights that bridge the gap between design and construction. This collaboration ensures that projects remain on track and that any design changes can be accommodated swiftly.

Crandall emphasized the importance of this support, stating, “We can move to a different manufacturer if the design changes that may be suited for a better manufacturer. We have the ability to pivot and inform the design team of any necessary adjustments.” This flexibility is crucial in maintaining project timelines and budgets.

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Expanding the Horizons of Mass Timber

The success of the Dharma Chan Monastery is indicative of a broader trend in the construction industry, where mass timber is increasingly being recognized for its versatility. Ringenberg and Crandall noted that mass timber applications are expanding beyond traditional uses, with projects now including schools, restaurants, and even data centers.

As Crandall pointed out, “Mass timber is not cannibalizing from light frame construction or heavy timber construction. It’s growing the pie.” This growth is essential for the industry, as it opens up new opportunities for innovation and sustainability.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Mass Timber

With the mass timber market projected to grow significantly in the coming years, Lam-Wood Systems is optimistic about the future. Ringenberg highlighted the importance of sustainable forest management, stating, “As forests start to get managed better, we’re going to be able to see more of that fiber come on the market.” This sustainable approach not only benefits the environment but also supports the growing demand for mass timber products.

The collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, from forest owners to designers and manufacturers, are crucial in advancing the mass timber industry. As Crandall noted, “We’re all stewards. We’re all just passing through. But our kids, our grandkids, their grandkids, it’s something that we need to be mindful of.”

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Conclusion

The Dharma Chan Monastery project serves as a powerful example of how a coordinated approach to mass timber construction can lead to successful outcomes. By leveraging a single-supplier model, Lam-Wood Systems is not only enhancing project efficiency but also paving the way for a more sustainable future in the construction industry. As mass timber continues to gain traction, AEC professionals are encouraged to explore the benefits of this innovative approach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the single-supplier model in mass timber construction? The single-supplier model allows for a unified contract and coordinated materials, reducing risks and enhancing efficiency in construction projects.
2. How did the Dharma Chan Monastery project exemplify this model? The project utilized a variety of materials under one contract, allowing for better coordination and integration of design elements.
3. What role does in-house engineering support play in mass timber projects? In-house engineering support helps bridge the gap between design and construction, ensuring projects remain on track and can adapt to changes.
4. What are some emerging applications for mass timber? Mass timber is being used in a variety of projects, including schools, restaurants, and data centers, expanding its applications beyond traditional uses.
5. How can sustainable forest management impact the mass timber industry? Improved forest management can increase the availability of timber resources, supporting the growing demand for mass timber products and promoting sustainability.

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The team behind UK CLT is on a mission to enhance the construction industry by harnessing the potential of reclaimed or secondary timber. By transforming discarded wood into cross-laminated secondary timber (CLST), they aim to not only reduce waste but also contribute to a more sustainable future in building practices.

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The UK has a significant amount of waste timber that is often discarded or downcycled, leading to missed opportunities for reuse. Colin Rose , Julia Stegemann , and Jonas Breidenbach from UK CLT discussed their innovative approach to reclaiming timber and the broader implications for sustainable construction during a recent conversation. They emphasized the importance of utilizing secondary timber to displace concrete and steel, thereby enhancing the sustainability of building materials.

The Journey to Reclaimed Timber

Colin, a professor of environmental engineering at UCL, shared how the idea of reclaiming timber began as part of a PhD project focused on reusing building components. “I was trying to look at the systems for how a city can enable more reuse of the stuff that’s currently being discarded,” he explained. This led to practical experiments, including reclaiming floorboards from a building slated for demolition and transforming them into usable timber products.

The team believes that reclaimed timber not only extends the life cycle of materials but also enhances carbon sequestration. “The more of that timber source we have, the more concrete and steel we can displace,” Colin noted. This approach aligns with the principles of the circular economy, which emphasizes cycling materials at their highest value.

The Aesthetic and Structural Benefits of Reclaimed CLST

One of the standout features of CLST is its unique character and history. Jonas highlighted that reclaimed timber carries stories from its previous life, adding aesthetic value to new constructions. “It’s just 300 years in total of history that you take and you manufacture it to something which, when it’s then locally used, gives a tangible source where it comes from,” he said.

From a structural perspective, the team has found that reclaimed CLT performs comparably to virgin timber. “From a mechanical perspective, there’s no difference,” Jonas stated, referencing their latest research that indicates reclaimed timber can meet or exceed the structural values of new materials.

Overcoming Challenges in the Circular Economy

Despite the promising potential of reclaimed timber, the UK CLT team acknowledges several challenges. One significant hurdle is the lack of established grading systems for reclaimed timber, which can impact confidence in its mechanical performance. “There’s a need for a grading system that works for secondary timber,” Colin explained.

Additionally, the team is focused on building relationships with demolition contractors to ensure a steady supply of high-quality feedstock. “The quality of the feedstock we get into the process has a dramatic impact on all manufacturing that happens,” Jonas noted, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in the supply chain.

Future Directions for UK CLT

Looking ahead, UK CLT aims to secure larger-scale demonstration projects that can showcase the practical applications of reclaimed timber in construction. They are also exploring innovative production methods, such as mobile factories that can process timber on-site, thereby reducing transportation emissions and costs.

As the conversation wrapped up, the team expressed optimism about the future of reclaimed timber in the construction industry. “We want people to look again at all things that they’re currently discarding and see not a problem of waste, but an opportunity,” Colin concluded.

Conclusion

UK CLT is at the forefront of a movement that seeks to redefine the role of timber in construction. By reclaiming and repurposing timber, they are not only addressing waste but also contributing to a more sustainable and circular economy. As the industry evolves, the lessons learned from UKCLT’s innovative practices will serve as a blueprint for future projects, encouraging a shift towards more responsible building materials.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is reclaimed timber?

Reclaimed timber is wood that has been salvaged from old buildings or structures and repurposed for new construction projects.

2. How does CLST compare to virgin timber?

Research indicates that CLST performs similarly to virgin timber in terms of structural integrity and mechanical properties.

3. What are the benefits of using reclaimed timber?

Using reclaimed timber reduces waste, extends the life cycle of materials, and contributes to carbon sequestration, making it a more sustainable choice.

4. What challenges does CLST face?

Key challenges include the lack of established grading systems for reclaimed timber and the need for reliable supply chains for high-quality feedstock.

5. What future projects is UK CLT pursuing?

UKCLT aims to develop larger-scale demonstrator projects and explore innovative production methods, such as mobile factories for on-site timber processing.

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Dean Lewis, Director of Mass Timber and Prefabrication at Skanska, shares his insights on the evolving landscape of mass timber construction. In a recent episode of the Mass Timber Group Show, hosted by Brady Potts, Lewis discussed the trends he is monitoring, predictions for market changes, and recommendations for holistic project planning in the mass timber sector.

As the mass timber market continues to mature, Lewis emphasizes the importance of understanding building code trends, land use incentives, and the overall success of project delivery. With Skanska's extensive experience in mass timber projects, including the Portland International Airport expansion, Lewis is well-positioned to provide valuable insights into the future of this innovative construction method.

The Evolving Market Landscape

Lewis notes that while mass timber has traditionally been associated with commercial office spaces, the market is shifting. "Commercial office has quieted down a little bit," he explains, attributing this change to the impacts of COVID-19 and rising interest rates. However, he remains optimistic about the future, highlighting a surge in K-12 education, higher education, and civic projects. "These projects are invigorating because they allow students and staff to experience mass timber in their built environment," he adds.

The adoption of mass timber is also being driven by changes in building codes. Lewis points to the recent adoption of the PRG 320 standard, which has paved the way for cross-laminated timber (CLT) and mass plywood panels (MPP) to be included in the International Building Code (IBC). "We now have 8 to 18 story prescribed options, and in the 2024 IBC, we can go to 12 stories type IVB fully exposed," he states. This progress is crucial for expanding the potential applications of mass timber in various building types.

Incentives and Regulations: The Carrot and the Stick

Lewis highlights the role of jurisdictional incentives in promoting mass timber construction. He cites the City of Redmond, Washington, as an example of a progressive approach, where the use of mass timber can increase a building's floor area ratio (FAR) by two. "These types of land use incentives are really what's going to drive the next generation of mass timber buildings," he asserts. By providing upfront incentives, jurisdictions can encourage developers to consider mass timber as a viable option from the outset.

On the regulatory side, Lewis acknowledges the growing trend of jurisdictions implementing stricter carbon offset requirements. "As certain jurisdictions start to take that on, it will make design teams and owners ask the question of how we are going to build this building," he explains. This shift will require a more thoughtful approach to project planning, moving away from cost-driven decisions to more sustainable practices.

Addressing Developer Concerns

Despite the positive trends, Lewis recognizes that some developers remain hesitant about mass timber due to perceived costs and a lack of experienced labor. "We need to address that issue with developers," he says. He recalls a time when Skanska was able to successfully integrate mass timber into projects that were initially designed for concrete or steel. "The change now that's really exciting is we're getting projects that are just from the start mass timber," he notes, emphasizing the importance of early involvement in the design process.

Lewis advocates for a holistic approach to project planning, where all aspects of construction are considered from the beginning. "If you're just looking at the frame to frame, you're going to struggle," he warns. Instead, he encourages teams to consider factors such as foundations, lateral systems, finishes, and overall project timelines to fully realize the benefits of mass timber.

Successful Project Delivery: Key Takeaways

Effective communication and collaboration are essential for successful mass timber project delivery. Lewis stresses the importance of having a team that is invested in the overall product rather than just their individual scopes. "Overall project success starts with communication," he states. He also highlights the need for careful planning and coordination, particularly regarding shop drawings and the integration of ancillary systems.

Lewis shares insights from his experience with moisture mitigation and building acclimation, particularly in the Pacific Northwest's challenging climate. "If you can coordinate it up front in the specifications, you can mitigate water infiltration," he advises. By implementing robust moisture management plans and ensuring proper acclimation of materials, teams can avoid costly delays and maintain project schedules.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Mass Timber

As the mass timber industry continues to grow, Lewis envisions a future where mass timber is on equal footing with other building materials. "We need all materials to be greener," he asserts, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in construction. He believes that as the industry matures, there will be more opportunities for mass timber to be utilized in a wider range of projects, from police stations to churches.

Lewis is optimistic about the future of mass timber and Skanska's role in it. "We're starting to see the East Coast parallel the West Coast in terms of activity," he notes. With a growing backlog of projects and increasing interest in mass timber, he believes that the industry is poised for significant growth.

Conclusion

Dean Lewis's insights into the mass timber market reveal a dynamic and evolving landscape. As building codes adapt, incentives grow, and project delivery methods improve, the potential for mass timber construction continues to expand. By embracing a holistic approach to project planning and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the industry can unlock the full benefits of this sustainable building material.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What trending in the mass timber market?
   Lewis notes a shift from commercial office projects to K-12 education, higher education, and civic projects, driven by changes in building codes and incentives.
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2. How are building codes impacting mass timber construction?
   Recent updates to the International Building Code have expanded the allowable height and design options for mass timber buildings, facilitating broader applications.
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3. What role do jurisdictional incentives play in promoting mass timber?
   Incentives, such as increased floor area ratios for mass timber buildings, encourage developers to consider mass timber as a viable option from the outset.
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4. What challenges do developers face when considering mass timber?
   Developers often cite concerns about costs and a lack of experienced labor as barriers to adopting mass timber in their projects.
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5. What is the importance of a holistic approach to project planning in mass timber construction?
   A holistic approach considers all aspects of construction, from foundations to finishes, ensuring that the benefits of mass timber are fully realized and project timelines are maintained.

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