Low-carbon mass timber made in California

The Berkeley woodlab is a research cooperative at the University of California focused on advancing the future of engineered wood products and timber architecture in California.

Cooperative Extension Professors Paul Mayencourt & Daniel Sanchez

Department of Architecture / College of Environmental Design
Department of Environmental Science, Policy and Management /College of Natural Resources
University of California, Berkeley

News and updates on our Instagram:

We have been exploring novel applications of dimensional softwood for solid wood shell structural systems. As an accessible construction material that is affordable and ubiquitous, dimensional lumber inherently carries great potential for more comple
The workforce housing design for Alpenglow's wood products campus in Tahoe uses nail-laminated timber (NLT) panels produced locally. The design for the cabins translates ecological care into architectural expression. repurposing small-diameter logs
Alpenglow housing is a proposal for affordable workforce housing built using nail-laminated timber panels and located on the eastern edge of the Tahoe National Forest, perched at 6,000 feet above sea level. The steep terrain reveals sweeping views ov
This summer, the team presented our work at the International Conference on Structures & Architecture in Antwerp, Belgium and at the Forest Futures Symposium at the Tahoe Truckee Community Fund. Read our full publication at the link in our bio ?
Through our research, we have developed DIY strategies for producing Nail-Laminated Timber (NLT) and Dowel-Laminated Timber (DLT) using accessible tools and local materials. We want to highlight the potential of craftsmanship in structural and archit
Conventional mass timber production, such as Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), requires a steady wood supply, skilled labor, and significant capital investment making it a high-risk investment for emerging markets. Berkeley Woodlab has been exploring a