Hyperion, Bordeaux

In April 2016, Jean-Paul Viguier et Associes won the competition to design a mixed-use timber tower in the Saint-Jean Belcier district of Bordeaux, France. Taking its name from the world’s tallest living tree, the 57 m tower is part of a larger project that seeks to spur development in the area.

It is the latest in a series of design proposals that have sought to emphasise timber as a viable construction material. For more information, see Timber construction for London.

The tower design incorporates laminated veneer lumber (LVL) and glulam for a post-and-beam substructure, with the first three levels being built in concrete. The flooring and partitions are designed as cross-laminated timber (CLT). The steel and glass elements of the façade use thermal glazing for solar protection and insulation.

Working in partnership with Eiffage and Woodreum, the developers hope the project will provide low carbon timber with more visibility and viability as a sustainable construction option.

Construction of the project will begin next year and completion is expected in 2019.

Content and images courtesy of Jean-Paul Viguier.

For more information, go here.

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