Exploring the Feasibility of Point-Supported Mass Timber for Tallwood Construction

This session examines the growing potential of point-supported mass timber systems in tall building construction, contrasting them with traditional timber framing and   conventional steel and concrete approaches. It highlights regulator  advancements, the role of mass timber in addressing mid-density housing needs, and the structural fundamentals of gravity and lateral systems.   Through cost and schedule comparisons, design principles like bi-axial   bending and punching shear, and insights from ongoing Canadian codification   efforts, the presentation offers a comprehensive overview supported by   real-world projects such as VAHA Burrard and BCIT Tall Timber.

1. Evaluate the opportunities and constraints for point-supported mass timber when compared to traditional timber framing schemes

2. Analyze the schedule and cost benefits of point-supported mass timber systems versus steel and concrete in tall construction projects

3. Explore state-of-the-art design methodologies and ongoing efforts towards codification in Canada

Alejandro Coronado is a Technical Advisor with a multidisciplinary background spanning contracting, supply, and consulting engineering. With both a Diploma and a Bachelor’s Degree in Structural Engineering from BCIT, Alejandro began his career in single-family residential design and steadily advanced to contribute to landmark projects such as the Centre Block Base Isolation at Parliament Hill, the UBC Museum of Anthropology Great Hall Renewal, the Royal BC Museum PARC Campus, and a mass timber campus in Silicon Valley. Initially drawn to mass timber for its expressive architectural potential, Alejandro quickly recognized its broader value in addressing today’s social and environmental challenges. Through many years of hands-on experience, Alejandro has become a champion for sustainable construction and simple yet effective structural solutions.

Associate Principal | Director of Research & Development, Fast+Epp

Carla Dickof is the Associate Principal & Director of Research and Development at Fast + Epp, where she leads the Testing Team at the Fast + Epp R&D hub, Concept Lab and uses the data gleaned from research programs to regularly contribute to academic journals and conferences.

Carla completed her Master’s degree studies at the University of British Columbia, where her thesis research focused on hybrid systems, specifically those combining steel and mass timber (CLT).

Her experience as an engineer spans commercial, recreational, educational, and residential projects – and, since joining Fast + Epp in 2012, Carla has gained a robust fluency in all major building materials, including concrete, steel, light-framed wood, heavy timber, and mass timber. Her understanding of building physics and materials brings invaluable insights to her projects.