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 Mercer Mass Timber with support from their Mercer Okanagan (OK Laminators) team, 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.
