Hybrid Building Systems Design Tool
Developing a free pre-design tool to streamline and innovate hybrid construction.
Project Overview
Updated March 6, 2025.
The Problem
Mid-rise buildings offer a promising solution to address housing supply shortages by providing higher housing density at greater affordability. However, wood construction at mid-rise heights sometimes struggles to compete on affordability compared to non-sustainable and conventional construction methods. Improving the cost efficiency of wood construction can be achieved through a broader selection of building materials along with innovative pre-construction and prefabrication techniques, independent of green incentives.
How We Are Solving It
Led by OK Laminators (“Mercer Okanagan”), this project aims to develop a free and publicly accessible pre-design tool that displays digital simulations of different building topologies using CFS/CLT hybrid building systems, thus empowering stakeholders to confidently adopt these innovative construction methods.
The tool will target a hybrid system combining cross-laminated timber (CLT) and cold-formed steel (CFS) for mid-rise developments. It will provide interactive, real-time estimates for various structural schemes, validated against B.C. Building Code requirements, with a focus on structural design. By simulating the CLT/CFS hybrid system, users can compare it with conventional building systems to assess development feasibility. Additionally, the approach aligns with various government commitments to sustainable, factory-built construction methods and fostering digital development.
Ultimately, this tool aims to play a pivotal role in helping stakeholders make informed decisions regarding mid-rise residential projects; emphasizing affordability, rapid on-site assembly, and sustainable practices, bringing regions and communities closer to increasing housing supply.
