Embodied carbon from the construction and refurbishment of buildings currently makes up 20% of UK built environment emissions.
Most embodied carbon emissions in construction are produced by concrete and steel, which are core components for most buildings.
At Leeds Skelton Lake, which was developed in 2020, we aimed to deliver an entirely different concept to convention service areas. The design utilised mass timber in conjunction with steel frame for a hybrid structure. This provided a unique aesthetic with 142 exposed glue-laminated timber beams.
The use of timber was key to reducing environmental impact whilst also maintaining high levels of energy efficiency and air tightness. The timber, which was responsibly sourced, acts as carbon sink absorbing carbon as the tree matures and will now be stored in the building. This project is an example of how innovative timber solutions can help meet the climate challenge.