In recent years, the field of multistory construction has experienced a shift in the development and application of innovative technologies. These advancements, ranging from cutting-edge inventions to rediscovered traditional methods, could change the way multistory buildings are designed, constructed, and operated. In this article, we will delve into some of the most notable technologies that are transforming the landscape of multistory construction.

Further Understanding of Design Considerations

A recent study conducted by researchers from the Universities of Cambridge and Bath has shed light on which design considerations for multistory buildings have the biggest impact on embodied carbon emissions, cost, and operational energy. Thanks to a computer model, 

The recommended design considerations for decreasing embodied carbon emissions and operational energy are:

• Making buildings more compact 
• Steel or timber frames instead of concrete 
• Smaller windows with optimal glazing suitable for the climate 
• Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery

These were the most effective measures for reducing embodied emissions and operational energy. Additionally, the study found that the embodied carbon values increased as the number of stories in a building increased. In terms of construction costs, choosing steel or timber frames and installing mechanical ventilation had the most significant impact. 

The researchers estimated that implementing these design recommendations could potentially save up to six gigatonnes of carbon by 2050. Furthermore, adopting these recommendations could lead to annual heating and cooling cost savings ranging between 28% and 44%.

Wooden Multi-story Construction

Wooden Multi-story Construction (WMC) refers to the use of wood as the primary structural material in the construction of multi-story buildings. This innovative building technology has gained significant attention and interest in various countries, particularly those with abundant forest resources like Finland and other parts of Europe.

WMC offers several advantages that make it an attractive alternative to traditional construction methods. One of the key benefits is its sustainability. Wood is a renewable resource and using it as a construction material reduces reliance on non-renewable resources such as concrete and steel. Additionally, the production and use of wood in construction has a lower carbon footprint compared to other materials, contributing to mitigating climate change.

Another advantage of WMC is its versatility in design and construction. Wood can be easily customized and fabricated into different shapes and sizes, allowing for flexible and creative architectural designs. It offers a warm and natural aesthetic appeal, creating a pleasant and inviting atmosphere in buildings. Wood also provides excellent thermal insulation properties, contributing to energy efficiency and reducing heating and cooling costs.

Furthermore, WMC promotes local economies and supports the forestry industry. By utilizing wood from sustainably managed forests, it creates demand for timber products, driving economic growth and job creation in rural areas.

To ensure the safety and structural integrity of WMC, advanced engineering techniques and technologies are employed. These include engineered wood products like cross-laminated timber (CLT), glulam (glued laminated timber), and laminated veneer lumber (LVL), which offer high strength and dimensional stability. Fire-resistant treatments and coatings can also be applied to enhance the fire performance of wood in multi-story buildings.