Construction of a residential block in Hackney has started and when it’s completed it will be the largest cross laminated timber (CLT) structure in the world.

CLT was developed in Switzerland in the earl 1990s to allow dimensional stability and strength in framing systems. It's made from multiple layers of wood, which are layer orientated crosswise. This can be used in roofs, floors and walls to create hugely stable structures and normally arrives pre-finished (thereby reducing labour costs) whilst providing a modern look to a construction project.



The building has been designed by Waugh Thistleton Architects on behalf of developers Regal Homes. The 16,000 sq m timber structure is largely set over to residential however includes 3,460 sq m of office space. The 10 storey building will use 3,852 cu m of CLT (which is more than has been used in any other project in the world).



“We believe that by volume of CLT used it will be the largest building in the world,” says Dave Lomax, project architect at Waugh Thistleton.



This demonstrates how effective this construction product can be in the construction of larger buildings. Lomax is hopeful that this project will encourage other architects and contractors to consider in the construction of residential properties. “Our aspiration is that in the future, building with CLT will not be seen as an odd thing to do,” he says.



As well as the largest CLT building in the world, the structure will also be the tallest CLT building in the world being around ½ metre taller than the Forte residential building in Melbourne, Australia (whilst a 14-storey glulam and CLT hybrid structure in Berge, Norway).



Another great story for the UK’s construction industry which is once again leading the way with the use of innovative construction supplies to construct some of the world’s best buildings.

In addition to this structure there are a lot more CLT projects being developed in Hackney in the near future.