Here’s How: Embodied Carbon

Mass timber procurement has a direct impact on structural design decisions, connection design, fabrication, and project delivery. In this episode, Senior Principal Paul Becker and Vice President Kristina Rogers discuss how supplier involvement in the SD (schematic design) phase, with or without a formal design-assist process, can help architects and structural engineers better align their designs for mass timber systems with available materials, fabrication methods, and erection sequences. The conversation focuses on why fabricator input is especially important in mass timber construction. Because products, species, connection preferences, and manufacturing processes vary by supplier, early coordination helps teams design to the material’s strengths, streamline coordination, minimize late changes, and improve constructability. Paul and Kristina also discuss options for connection design responsibilities and how that decision can impact design, fabrication and speed of erection. And they look at ways to adjust the design-bid-build delivery process – which doesn’t lend itself to design-assist – so it works more effectively for mass timber projects. Through examples including the Samuel H. Scripps Theater Center, the Roux Institute and Goldfinch Lofts, they explain how experienced teams collaborate to maintain flexibility, clarify performance expectations, and coordinate with suppliers to support successful delivery. Key Insights: Early supplier involvement can improve mass timber efficiency. Bringing a supplier or fabricator into the process early helps the design team align the structural system with available products, material dimensions, and fabrication preferences. Design assist helps reduce uncertainty. Fabricator input gives engineers and architects a clearer understanding of manufacturing capabilities, connection preferences and erection methods before key design decisions are locked in. Connection design requires close collaboration between engineers and fabricators, no matter who performs the scope. In mass timber buildings, connections can influence member sizing, load capacity, structural geometry and coordination with architectural intent. DFMA is central to successful mass timber delivery. Designing for manufacturing and assembly helps teams move from an abstract structural concept to a system that can be fabricated, shipped, and erected efficiently. Complex geometry benefits from fabricator collaboration. Curved glulam, long-span members and non-rectilinear systems often require early input on curvature limits, splice locations, connection options, and shipping size constraints. Traditional design-bid-build can work, but it needs adaptation. When early supplier selection is not possible, teams may need clearer performance criteria, more conservative assumptions, and additional coordination after the fabricator is selected. Better communication leads to better cost and constructability outcomes. The episode reinforces that mass timber projects benefit when engineers, timber fabricators, detailers, and erectors are part of the same technical conversation early enough to influence design. Topics Covered: Mass timber procurement strategies Design-assist for mass timber projects Early supplier/fabricator involvement Design-bid-build delivery for mass timber Mass timber connection design responsibilities Fabricator-led connection detailing Design for manufacturing and assembly, or DFMA Glulam roof geometry and curved timber systems Supplier selection Timber erection sequencing Constructability coordination Public, university and institutional procurement constraints Mass timber cost and schedule considerations

In this episode, hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rogers take a deep dive with Jordan Komp into the design and delivery of Ascent, a landmark project that set a new precedent for tall mass timber construction. As the first building of its kind at this scale in the United States, the project required rethinking traditional approaches to structural design, code compliance and interdisciplinary coordination. The discussion highlights how Ascent has become a benchmark for future tall timber projects, influencing both industry practices and evolving building codes. The discussion focuses on how the properties of mass timber require designers to think and work differently than they do on steel and concrete structures. Greater elastic shortening, long-term creep and moisture-related movement demand not only advanced structural analysis but also close coordination with façade, MEP and other building systems to ensure that all components can accommodate movement over time. This level of integration requires structural engineers to play a central role in integrating these systems. The episode also explores the realities of construction, procurement and cost in tall mass timber projects. From rapid installation schedules to real-time problem solving in the field, success depended on continuous collaboration between the design team, contractor and fabricator. Lessons learned from Ascent emphasize the importance of early design clarity, detailed coordination and strong partnerships to reduce uncertainty and achieve competitive pricing. As the industry evolves, these insights are shaping how future tall timber buildings are conceived and delivered. Inside the Episode Hero Image: Use an Ascent glamor shot Key Insights: Ascent established a new precedent for tall mass timber. The project serves as a critical benchmark for code development, design strategies and future high rise timber buildings. Tall mass timber requires advanced understanding of structural movement. Greater elastic shortening, creep and moisture related effects must be accounted for across all building systems, not just the structure. The role of structural engineers is central to project success. Engineers are deeply involved in code strategy, fire performance, constructability and coordination across disciplines. Early coordination reduces risk and cost uncertainty. Well-developed design documentation and clear system integration improve contractor confidence and lead to more accurate pricing. Real time collaboration is essential during construction. Fast paced installation requires immediate problem solving and strong communication between field teams and designers. Procurement strategy impacts project success. Providing clear and detailed design information early helps manufacturers deliver more competitive and reliable pricing. Hybrid systems represent the next evolution of tall timber. Combining mass timber with materials like concrete can optimize performance, cost and constructability. Key Hero Image: Use gif of the Ascent model coming together. What You’ll Learn: Design and delivery process of Ascent MKE How mass timber design considerations differ from steel and concrete Vertical movement in mass timber IBC 2021 and strategies for code variances and AHJ approval Connection design and detailing best practices Accurate early timber pricing Hybrid timber systems What You’ll Learn Hero Image: TBD Use one of the interior shots from the Ascent page.

In this episode, hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rogers talk with Doug Schweizer about how proprietary systems are transforming mass timber construction through the lens of the Under Armour Global Headquarters, a 280,000-square-foot office building. The discussion highlights how proprietary connections introduced by timber manufacturer binderholz streamlined fabrication, reduced installation time and delivered measurable cost and schedule savings. The key to success was the willingness of the entire design and construction team – including Gensler, Whiting-Turner and Seagate Mass Timber – to collaborate closely. A central theme is the importance of proactive and continuous coordination when working with proprietary systems. Engineers must invest significant time in understanding design assumptions, reviewing calculations and collaborating closely with manufacturers. Frequent communication, detailed submittal reviews and early engagement allow teams to build confidence in the system while ensuring it integrates seamlessly with architectural intent and other building systems. The episode also examines how collaboration across the full project team influences success. Engineers act as a bridge between manufacturers, architects, and contractors, helping translate proprietary concepts into buildable solutions. When all parties are aligned and open to new approaches, proprietary systems can enhance both speed and efficiency.

In this episode, hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rogers talk with Chris Williams about how hybrid mass timber systems are emerging as a practical solution for low-rise residential construction, particularly in markets already reliant on light-frame wood buildings. Rather than fully replacing traditional systems, mass timber is introduced strategically in elements such as floor slabs and shafts. This approach creates a flexible entry point for developers looking to adopt mass timber without fully committing to all-timber structures. And low-rise structures can take advantage of IBC Type 3 and Type 5 code requirements, which are simpler and less costly to achieve than Type 4 construction.* Two projects, the Mayflower Hill Residence Hall at Colby College and Goldfinch Lofts, an affordable housing development in Des Moines, Iowa, illustrate the discussion. Chris highlights how prefabrication of mass-timber components off-site is enabling faster on-site assembly with smaller crews. But this shift requires strong up-front coordination, particularly for MEP systems. Early collaboration and detailed planning become critical to fully realize the benefits of speed and efficiency. The conversation also explores the benefits of having the structural engineer take on the role of special inspector during construction. The episode examines how mass timber can address broader industry challenges, including labor shortages and the need to accelerate housing delivery. As adoption grows, hybrid systems offer a scalable model for both affordable and market-rate housing. * In the International Building Code (IBC), mass timber (or “heavy timber”) is categorized as Type 4 construction. Type 3 (“ordinary”) combines noncombustible exterior walls with combustible interior elements. Type 5 (“wood-frame”) uses conventional light-wood studs and joists with plywood sheathing.

In this episode, hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rogers talk with Alejandro Fernandez about how the role of the engineer has evolved into a true strategic partnership within developer-led mass timber projects. When engaged at the earliest stages, experienced engineers can prevent complications by sharing effective approaches to schedule, accurate early pricing, insurance strategy, and permitting pathways. They can also help shape project teams and guide decision-making around delivery methods. This early collaboration ensures that all stakeholders are committed to designing for mass timber from the outset. A major focus is placed on how close coordination among all team members directly impacts project feasibility and cost. Open communication and collaboration among architects, engineers, manufacturers, erectors, and contractors early on can identify cost drivers, enabling the team to optimize the design to lower costs. The episode explores strategies for working with jurisdictions to facilitate approvals for code variances, using the real-world example of Ascent. It also covers ways in which the use of mass timber reduces construction costs, offsetting the cost of the material itself.

Interested in designing or building with mass timber but unsure where to start or if it’s right for your project? This podcast provides practical information on how to efficiently and cost-effectively integrate mass timber into projects of every size and type. Owners, developers, architects, and engineers will learn how to overcome concerns about cost, code compliance, insurance issues, fire safety, acoustic and vibration challenges, and more. Hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rodgers talk with experts in mass timber analysis, design, and construction to uncover effective strategies, best practices, and lessons learned from a large portfolio of projects. They discuss ways the advantages of mass timber – sustainability, low embodied carbon, biophilic benefits, construction efficiency, and circularity – can be successfully incorporated into a widening array of projects, including commercial buildings, high- and low-rise residential, healthcare and labs, academic buildings, data centers, cultural and arts centers, sports and recreation, aviation facilities, and bridges and transportation infrastructure.

Learn how creative design is bringing down the cost of mass timber buildings and making the material work in dramatic and unconventional structures. In this episode, hosts Paul Becker and Kristina Rodgers talk with Eli Gottlieb about how mass timber is shifting from a niche material to a mainstream building system. Successful timber projects require early planning around layout, spans, orientation, and standard panel dimensions to optimize material efficiency and erection speed. Close attention to these issues reduces the cost of mass timber buildings. The conversation also explores timber’s potential for dramatic architectural forms and unconventional uses, such as pavilion roofs and bridges. These ambitious designs succeed when teams standardize where possible and collaborate closely with fabricators on connections and detailing. Eli uses real-world examples to illuminate the conversation, including Princeton University’s Hobson College, the Samuel H. Scripps Theater Center at Hudson Valley Shakespeare, and the High Line Moynihan Connector bridge.

Join experts in engineering, science, and technology for conversations about how to make the built environment – and the world – better for everyone. In Season Two, Mainstreaming Mass Timber, we talk with innovators who are pushing the limits of mass timber about the ways new technologies and creative design are making mass timber viable for more projects than ever before.

In the final episode of the first season, host Amy Hattan speaks with Scott Schneider, Senior Principal and co-leader of Thornton Tomasetti’s Structural Engineering practice, about the role of engineers in meeting the climate-change crisis by making smart, integrated design decisions early in the process. They discuss Scott’s motivations for taking the lead on the firm’s efforts to reduce embodied carbon in all the projects we design. The episode also explores wider AEC-industry opportunities for reducing the negative impacts of buildings on the environment.

In this episode, host Amy Hattan talks with Bridget Kane and Lisa Bolle, leaders of Thornton Tomasetti’s ethical decarbonization working group. Together, they explore how the construction industry can reduce embodied carbon while also addressing labor ethics in material supply chains. They discuss how the manual, labor-intensive manufacturing of materials like solar panels is prone to labor violations, often hidden deep within supply chains. They also review challenges in tracking these risks and emphasize the need for tools like SourceMap to visualize supply chain ethics. Bridget and Lisa also point out that everyone in the AEC industry has a role in building a sustainable, ethical future through solutions such as using vetted materials lists and supporting initiatives like Design for Freedom to push industry-wide change.  

In this episode, host Amy Hattan talks with Jackson Pitofsky, a structural engineer in Thornton Tomasetti’s Denver office, and co-leader of the firm’s embodied-carbon community of practice assessments working group. Jackson shares practical strategies structural engineers can use to dramatically reduce embodied carbon in the buildings they design. He discusses the impacts of structural system selection and “optioneering” – comparing different systems like steel, concrete, and mass timber material optimization – as well as the importance of specifying low-carbon materials, including cement replacements, and using environmental product declarations (EPDs) to verify embodied-carbon reductions. The conversation covers the importance of collaboration with clients, architects, and contractors for setting clear targets and meeting carbon reduction goals.

In this episode, host Amy Hattan talks with Meghan Kalisz, a consultant in Thornton Tomasetti’s Sustainability and Resilience practice, about achieving high levels of embodied carbon reduction in building design. Meghan shares her expertise in life cycle assessment (LCA) and discusses best practices for achieving ambitious embodied-carbon reduction targets. She explains how a rigorous certification programs like Living Building Challenge (LBC) CORE encourages reductions in embodied carbon, with specific targets for building materials such as structural frames and enclosures. Meghan also highlights the use of mass timber and cement replacements, and emphasizes the challenges and solutions involved in reducing embodied carbon, from transportation emissions to insulation choices. The conversation explores how meeting ambitious targets requires receptive clients and partners and looking at every angle for a multi-pronged solution.

In this episode, host Amy Hattan talks with Amanda Garvey, a vice president in Thornton Tomasetti’s Sustainability and Resilience practice, about reducing embodied carbon in higher education facilities. Amanda discusses how focusing on Scope 3 emissions from building materials can help colleges and universities meet carbon neutrality goals. She shares ways that certifications like LEED and ILFI promote embodied-carbon reduction and explains how schools can measure, compare and set targets to reduce their carbon footprint. Amanda also emphasizes the role of higher education in driving market change by adopting and standardizing embodied-carbon reporting.

In this episode, host Amy Hattan talks with structural engineer Elizabeth Brownell about reducing embodied carbon in bridges. Elizabeth discusses the importance of policies like New York’s Buy Clean Concrete and Executive Order 22 and shares insights on how engineers can measure and optimize embodied carbon throughout a bridge’s design and construction. She also emphasizes the need for changes in Department of Transportation specifications to further reduce carbon emissions in infrastructure projects.

In this episode, host Amy Hattan talks with Chris Williams, a structural engineer and associate principal in Thornton Tomasetti’s Portland, Maine office. Chris discusses his work on developing embodied-carbon specifications for timber, sharing insights on the potential and complexities involved in using mass timber to reduce embodied carbon in construction. He explains timber’s biogenic carbon storage and its lower global warming potential as well as the role of certification programs like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), and the importance of considering local supply chains and transportation emissions.

In this episode, host Amy Hattan talks with Nisha Kakde, a senior consultant in sustainability. Nisha shares her research on reducing the carbon footprint of steel production – including the potential of alternative fuels, like hydrogen, and technologies such as carbon capture, the use of biochar and the reconversion of blast-furnace off-gas – to achieve significant emissions reductions and move closer to net-zero goals.

In this episode, host Amy Hattan talks with Patrick Kenny, a structural engineer who co-leads our Embodied Carbon community of practice’s materials working group. Patrick explains how using portland-limestone cement (PLC) as an alternative to traditional portland cement offers a 5-10% reduction in embodied carbon. The conversation highlights the potential for substantial environmental benefits from widespread adoption of PLC.

In this episode, host Amy Hattan talks with Heather Walters, a vice president in our Sustainability and Resilience practice. Heather, an expert in sustainable design, shares insights from a project using three LCA tools: Beacon, One Click LCA, and EC3. These assessments revealed varying results in embodied-carbon reduction, highlighting the importance of understanding the purpose of each study.

In this episode, host Amy Hattan talks with Erin Gallagher, a senior sustainability consultant at Thornton Tomasetti. Erin explains the “ABCs” of environmental product declarations, or EPDs, and they discuss ways to access and use EPDs to lower embodied carbon in building designs. 

Host Amy Hattan talks with Emily Kunkel, an expert in decarbonization strategies, about an innovative approach to tackling industrial carbon emissions. They will explore the impactful role of carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) in substantially reducing emissions from cement manufacturing.

Host Amy Hattan sits down with Julie Pietrzak, the leader of Thornton Tomasetti's Resilience practice, to delve into the application of resilient thinking in design. They discuss how this approach can contribute to embodied carbon reductions in the built environment.

Host Amy Hattan and her colleague Duncan Cox explore the importance of supply chain engagement in the process and provide practical advice on how to effectively leverage this aspect for optimal results. Duncan is a trailblazer in the field of embodied carbon assessment and reduction and the leader of Thornton Tomasetti's life cycle assessment team. 

Host Amy Hattan talks with Michael Cropper, co-lead of Thornton Tomasetti's Embodied Carbon community of practice. Michael sheds light on how structural engineers can reduce embodied carbon in their designs through thoughtful selection of steel for their projects.

Host Amy Hattan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Patrick Kenny, a structural engineer and co-leader of the Materials Working Group in Thornton Tomasetti's Embodied Carbon community of practice. They explore effective strategies structural designers can use to reduce the embodied carbon footprint of concrete.

Join host Amy Hattan, corporate responsibility officer of Thornton Tomasetti, for a series of quick, informational talks with colleagues about practical ways designers can reduce embodied carbon in the built environment.  Thornton Tomasetti is an international multidisciplinary engineering and consulting firm that is channeling all its capabilities to tackle climate change. Technical experts from across the firm will share best practices and lessons learned over 12+ years of focusing on embodied carbon and how to lower the greenhouse gas emissions of their projects.