Location: GlaxoSmithKline Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, University of Nottingham
Location: GlaxoSmithKline Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, University of Nottingham
Wood Supplier: Binderholz
Architects: The Fairhursts Design Group
Wood Species: German Spruce, Austrian Spruce, American Red Cedar
The softwood used in Binderholz’s production of CLT panels and other structural timber elements is certified under the PEFC™ system and timber is sourced from sustainable forests in Europe. CLT panels can be made in lengths of up to 20 metres and are usually up to 3.5 metres high.
TTF Member, Binderholz, works on a ‘no waste’ principle, utilising 100% of the wood resource. Any wood material remaining from timber and CLT production is recycled into its wood pellet production.
Location: GlaxoSmithKline Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry, University of Nottingham
Wood Supplier: Binderholz
Architects: The Fairhursts Design Group
Wood Species: German Spruce, Austrian Spruce, American Red Cedar
The softwood used in Binderholz’s production of CLT panels and other structural timber elements is certified under the PEFC™ system and timber is sourced from sustainable forests in Europe. CLT panels can be made in lengths of up to 20 metres and are usually up to 3.5 metres high.
TTF Member, Binderholz, works on a ‘no waste’ principle, utilising 100% of the wood resource. Any wood material remaining from timber and CLT production is recycled into its wood pellet production.
A combination of cross-laminated timber panels (CLT), glulam beams, and timber cladding in this building, designed for the University of Nottingham by The Fairhursts Design Group, are helping to achieve the desire for carbon neutrality in the construction of the GlaxoSmithKline Laboratories for Sustainable Chemistry.
A glulam beam structure completed with CLT structural panels, pre-fabricated off-site, enabled the building to become a carbon sink. Just as importantly, the techniques reduced construction time on site, creating a strong and sustainable building.
CLT was used for the floor structure and the roof deck, as well as exterior walls and major interior partitions. Four prefabricated air extraction ‘horns’ also used the glulam and CLT combination, and were clad with Western Red Cedar.
Binderholz, working with partner B&K Structures, ensured the CLT panels had the openings for services pre-cut for installation. The philosophy behind the building was to inspire and influence those working within it, and thus to improve outcomes in the field of sustainable chemistry. It received BREEAM Outstanding and LEED Platinum status.
The use of softwood CLT panels reduced construction time and made the build process less weather-dependent. It also created less site waste and minimised the need for other trades, with pre-cut panels arriving ready for the installation of services. The Cedar-clad extraction towers also maximised natural ventilation, assisting fume extraction.