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Timber versus concrete: how do we make the business case for biobased development feasible? To answer that question, we have conducted design research into various biobased alternatives for an ensemble of residential buildings on a development site in Legmeer Amstelveen. In the research team LEVS worked together with Prosper Vitae, Finch Buildings and TU Delft.
The study aims to develop different designs that fit within the urban plan and meet the requirements of the specific local design and development program guidelines, while also providing a feasible biobased alternative to a traditional design. In this paper, we focus on various construction types, we explore the use of Finch modules and CLT (cross-laminated timber) in walls and floors or in columns and beams and compare carbon emissions and costs of the variations.
Our conclusions lead to the 'Guidelines for Timber Policy':
- Redefine design standards
- Rethink parking
- Regulate outcomes, not materials
- Foster early collaboration and knowledge exchange
The research was made possible by the Municipality of Amstelveen and sustainability accelerator Built by Nature.