Thornton Tomasetti Here’s How

Thornton Tomasetti

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Join experts in engineering, science, and technology for conversations about how to make the built environment – and the world – better for everyone. In Season Two, Mainstreaming Mass Timber, we talk with innovators who are pushing the limits of mass timber about the ways new technologies and creative design are making mass timber viable for more projects than ever before.

HACE 3 DÍAS

S2. Ep. 05: Setting Up Tall Mass Timber for Success | Mass Timber Podcast

In this episode, hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rogers take a deep dive with Jordan Komp into the design and delivery of Ascent, a landmark project that set a new precedent for tall mass timber construction. As the first building of its kind at this scale in the United States, the project required rethinking traditional approaches to structural design, code compliance and interdisciplinary coordination. The discussion highlights how Ascent has become a benchmark for future tall timber projects, influencing both industry practices and evolving building codes. The discussion focuses on how the properties of mass timber require designers to think and work differently than they do on steel and concrete structures. Greater elastic shortening, long-term creep and moisture-related movement demand not only advanced structural analysis but also close coordination with façade, MEP and other building systems to ensure that all components can accommodate movement over time. This level of integration requires structural engineers to play a central role in integrating these systems. The episode also explores the realities of construction, procurement and cost in tall mass timber projects. From rapid installation schedules to real-time problem solving in the field, success depended on continuous collaboration between the design team, contractor and fabricator. Lessons learned from Ascent emphasize the importance of early design clarity, detailed coordination and strong partnerships to reduce uncertainty and achieve competitive pricing. As the industry evolves, these insights are shaping how future tall timber buildings are conceived and delivered. Inside the Episode Hero Image: Use an Ascent glamor shot Key Insights: Ascent established a new precedent for tall mass timber. The project serves as a critical benchmark for code development, design strategies and future high rise timber buildings. Tall mass timber requires advanced understanding of structural movement. Greater elastic shortening, creep and moisture related effects must be accounted for across all building systems, not just the structure. The role of structural engineers is central to project success. Engineers are deeply involved in code strategy, fire performance, constructability and coordination across disciplines. Early coordination reduces risk and cost uncertainty. Well-developed design documentation and clear system integration improve contractor confidence and lead to more accurate pricing. Real time collaboration is essential during construction. Fast paced installation requires immediate problem solving and strong communication between field teams and designers. Procurement strategy impacts project success. Providing clear and detailed design information early helps manufacturers deliver more competitive and reliable pricing. Hybrid systems represent the next evolution of tall timber. Combining mass timber with materials like concrete can optimize performance, cost and constructability. Key Hero Image: Use gif of the Ascent model coming together. What You’ll Learn: Design and delivery process of Ascent MKE How mass timber design considerations differ from steel and concrete Vertical movement in mass timber IBC 2021 and strategies for code variances and AHJ approval Connection design and detailing best practices Accurate early timber pricing Hybrid timber systems What You’ll Learn Hero Image: TBD Use one of the interior shots from the Ascent page.

20 min
11 MAY

S2. Ep. 04: Collaboration & Proprietary Systems at Under Armour’s Headquarters | Mass Timber Podcast

In this episode, hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rogers talk with Doug Schweizer about how proprietary systems are transforming mass timber construction through the lens of the Under Armour Global Headquarters, a 280,000-square-foot office building. The discussion highlights how proprietary connections introduced by timber manufacturer binderholz streamlined fabrication, reduced installation time and delivered measurable cost and schedule savings. The key to success was the willingness of the entire design and construction team – including Gensler, Whiting-Turner and Seagate Mass Timber – to collaborate closely. A central theme is the importance of proactive and continuous coordination when working with proprietary systems. Engineers must invest significant time in understanding design assumptions, reviewing calculations and collaborating closely with manufacturers. Frequent communication, detailed submittal reviews and early engagement allow teams to build confidence in the system while ensuring it integrates seamlessly with architectural intent and other building systems. The episode also examines how collaboration across the full project team influences success. Engineers act as a bridge between manufacturers, architects, and contractors, helping translate proprietary concepts into buildable solutions. When all parties are aligned and open to new approaches, proprietary systems can enhance both speed and efficiency.

16 min
4 MAY

S2. Ep. 03: Mass Timber for Simpler Low-Rise Residential | Mass Timber Podcast

In this episode, hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rogers talk with Chris Williams about how hybrid mass timber systems are emerging as a practical solution for low-rise residential construction, particularly in markets already reliant on light-frame wood buildings. Rather than fully replacing traditional systems, mass timber is introduced strategically in elements such as floor slabs and shafts. This approach creates a flexible entry point for developers looking to adopt mass timber without fully committing to all-timber structures. And low-rise structures can take advantage of IBC Type 3 and Type 5 code requirements, which are simpler and less costly to achieve than Type 4 construction.* Two projects, the Mayflower Hill Residence Hall at Colby College and Goldfinch Lofts, an affordable housing development in Des Moines, Iowa, illustrate the discussion. Chris highlights how prefabrication of mass-timber components off-site is enabling faster on-site assembly with smaller crews. But this shift requires strong up-front coordination, particularly for MEP systems. Early collaboration and detailed planning become critical to fully realize the benefits of speed and efficiency. The conversation also explores the benefits of having the structural engineer take on the role of special inspector during construction. The episode examines how mass timber can address broader industry challenges, including labor shortages and the need to accelerate housing delivery. As adoption grows, hybrid systems offer a scalable model for both affordable and market-rate housing. * In the International Building Code (IBC), mass timber (or “heavy timber”) is categorized as Type 4 construction. Type 3 (“ordinary”) combines noncombustible exterior walls with combustible interior elements. Type 5 (“wood-frame”) uses conventional light-wood studs and joists with plywood sheathing.

19 min
28 ABR

S2. Ep. 02: Best Practices for Developer-Led Mass Timber Projects

In this episode, hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rogers talk with Alejandro Fernandez about how the role of the engineer has evolved into a true strategic partnership within developer-led mass timber projects. When engaged at the earliest stages, experienced engineers can prevent complications by sharing effective approaches to schedule, accurate early pricing, insurance strategy, and permitting pathways. They can also help shape project teams and guide decision-making around delivery methods. This early collaboration ensures that all stakeholders are committed to designing for mass timber from the outset. A major focus is placed on how close coordination among all team members directly impacts project feasibility and cost. Open communication and collaboration among architects, engineers, manufacturers, erectors, and contractors early on can identify cost drivers, enabling the team to optimize the design to lower costs. The episode explores strategies for working with jurisdictions to facilitate approvals for code variances, using the real-world example of Ascent. It also covers ways in which the use of mass timber reduces construction costs, offsetting the cost of the material itself.

20 min
TRÁILER DE LA TEMPORADA 2

Season 2 Trailer: Mainstreaming Mass Timber Out Now!

Interested in designing or building with mass timber but unsure where to start or if it’s right for your project? This podcast provides practical information on how to efficiently and cost-effectively integrate mass timber into projects of every size and type. Owners, developers, architects, and engineers will learn how to overcome concerns about cost, code compliance, insurance issues, fire safety, acoustic and vibration challenges, and more. Hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rodgers talk with experts in mass timber analysis, design, and construction to uncover effective strategies, best practices, and lessons learned from a large portfolio of projects. They discuss ways the advantages of mass timber – sustainability, low embodied carbon, biophilic benefits, construction efficiency, and circularity – can be successfully incorporated into a widening array of projects, including commercial buildings, high- and low-rise residential, healthcare and labs, academic buildings, data centers, cultural and arts centers, sports and recreation, aviation facilities, and bridges and transportation infrastructure.

19 s
21 ABR

S2. Ep. 01: Pushing the Limits of Mass Timber

Learn how creative design is bringing down the cost of mass timber buildings and making the material work in dramatic and unconventional structures. In this episode, hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rodgers talk with Eli Gottlieb about how mass timber is shifting from a niche material to a mainstream building system. Successful timber projects require early planning around layout, spans, orientation, and standard panel dimensions to optimize material efficiency and erection speed. Close attention to these issues reduces the cost of mass timber buildings. The conversation also explores timber’s potential for dramatic architectural forms and unconventional uses, such as pavilion roofs and bridges. These ambitious designs succeed when teams standardize where possible and collaborate closely with fabricators on connections and detailing. Eli uses real-world examples to illuminate the conversation, including Princeton University’s Hobson College, the Samuel H. Scripps Theater Center at Hudson Valley Shakespeare, and the High Line Moynihan Connector bridge.

19 min
TRÁILER

Thornton Tomasetti Here's How Trailer

Join experts in engineering, science, and technology for conversations about how to make the built environment – and the world – better for everyone. In Season Two, Mainstreaming Mass Timber, we talk with innovators who are pushing the limits of mass timber about the ways new technologies and creative design are making mass timber viable for more projects than ever before.

15 s
12/11/2024

S1. Ep. 16. 12 Minutes on Climate Action in Engineering

In the final episode of the first season, host Amy Hattan speaks with Scott Schneider, Senior Principal and co-leader of Thornton Tomasetti’s Structural Engineering practice, about the role of engineers in meeting the climate-change crisis by making smart, integrated design decisions early in the process. They discuss Scott’s motivations for taking the lead on the firm’s efforts to reduce embodied carbon in all the projects we design. The episode also explores wider AEC-industry opportunities for reducing the negative impacts of buildings on the environment.

13 min

Join experts in engineering, science, and technology for conversations about how to make the built environment – and the world – better for everyone. In Season Two, Mainstreaming Mass Timber, we talk with innovators who are pushing the limits of mass timber about the ways new technologies and creative design are making mass timber viable for more projects than ever before.

Creador

Thornton Tomasetti
Años de actividad

2024 - 2026
Episodios

24
Clasificación

Apto
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© 2024 Thornton Tomasetti. All rights reserved.
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Thornton Tomasetti Here’s How

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