Construction of an 8.5-storey-high apartment block, built entirely with cross-laminated timber has recently been completed in the city of Västerås. The building is secured with mechanical screws that ensures it can be taken apart and reused. It is the tallest timber building in Sweden.
The building has been designed by C. F. Møller Architects and is situated in Västerås, one hour from Stockholm. By being constructed from solid timber, the building radically reduces CO2 emissions and positively affects the indoor climate.
A new landmark
The Residential Tower on Lilludden, in the new district of Kajstaden at Lake Mälaren in Västerås, has become a landmark. Even the walls, joists, balconies, the lift and the stairwell shafts have been made of cross-laminated wood. The architects hope the structure becomes a benchmark for a sustainable future.
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The use of CNC-milled solid timber and glulam allows for an airtight, energy-efficient structure without the need for additional cladding.
Each floor has four flats, and each floor has taken three craftsmen an average of three days to construct. The low weight of the material also meant fewer deliveries to the construction site and a more efficient, safer and quieter working environment during construction.
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Carbon-dioxide savings
“The total carbon-dioxide savings from use of solid wood instead of concrete are estimated at 550 tons of CO2 over the building’s life,” explains Rob Marsh, the studio’s sustainability manager. Research also shows that buildings with a wooden frame make a positive contribution to human health and well-being thanks to better air quality and acoustic qualities.
The double height apartments range from one to five rooms in size and all the living rooms are positioned to look out over the harbor. The building is distinguished by its boxy form and staggered roof.
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The Tallest Timber Building in Sweden
“Industrial timber technology provides architects with better tools for designing beautiful houses that boast a high degree of detail,” says Ola Jonsson, associate partner at C.F. Møller Architects. Through research projects and several active wood projects, C.F. Møller Architects has focused on innovation as well as developing and implementing multi-storey buildings with solid wood frames.
Project credits:
Architect: C.F. Møller Architects
Landscape: C.F. Møller Architects
Contractor: Martinsons and Consto
Engineer: Bjerking
The Tallest Timber Building in Sweden, written by Tor Kjolberg based on information from the architects