80 M St SE in Washington

80 M St SE in Washington, DC stands as a groundbreaking example of how mass timber can be leveraged to redefine historic urban spaces—an approach masterfully executed by Hickok Cole, as detailed on their project page (https://hickokcole.com/project/80-m-street-se/)

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Timber Structure

At the heart of the project is a sophisticated timber framework that exemplifies modern engineering and sustainable design:

• Engineered Wood Systems: The design incorporates state-of-the-art mass timber elements such as glue-laminated timber (glulam) and cross-laminated timber (CLT). These components are prefabricated using digital fabrication techniques, ensuring precision and a high degree of structural performance while maintaining the warmth and natural beauty of wood.
• Exposed Aesthetics: The timber structure is deliberately showcased with exposed beams and connections, creating a visual narrative that bridges the gap between contemporary design and the historic character of Capitol Hill.
• Structural Innovation: Advanced connection systems, including steel-strengthened bolts and engineered joinery, guarantee robust load-bearing capacity and durability, setting a new benchmark for timber construction in the capital.

Architect

Hickok Cole leads the design of this project, bringing a forward-thinking vision that merges sustainability with historical context:

• Innovative Design Philosophy: The architects at Hickok Cole have harnessed the potential of mass timber to create a space that is not only environmentally responsible but also sensitive to the rich architectural heritage of Washington, DC.
• Digital Fabrication: Their process integrates advanced digital design tools and prefabrication methods, ensuring that every timber component is produced to exacting standards and seamlessly assembled on-site.
• Contextual Sensitivity: The design respects the historic fabric of Capitol Hill, blending modern timber aesthetics with traditional elements to create an inspiring, light-filled interior that speaks to both the past and the future.

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