Using mass timber in school architecture offers numerous advantages, especially for children and youths. Research shows that natural materials like wood can boost concentration and cognitive function, making them especially beneficial in educational settings. Our project, KF School in Stavanger, Norway, showcases these benefits with its four multi-story CLT buildings.
What challenges did Acetra face while building KF School?
Building KF Skolen presented several challenges, particularly due to the use of mass timber in a multi-story configuration. One significant challenge was managing the structural requirements and ensuring lateral stability in the taller CLT building, especially given its 17.5-meter height. The varying thicknesses of the CLT walls, which changed from bottom to top, required design and engineering to balance structural integrity with aesthetic considerations.
Another challenge involved coordinating the construction of the CLT and GLT elements with the concrete underground structures. Ensuring precise alignment and integration between these different materials was crucial for the overall stability and performance of the buildings.
