Dalston Works (previously known as Dalston Lane) is the largest Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) project globally, using more timber than any other scheme in the world by volume.
The 121 unit residential development in Hackney, UK, boasts many material benefits due to its CLT construction, not least its sustainability. In total, Ramboll’s CLT experts have calculated Dalston Works' structure has approximately 50 percent less embodied carbon when compared to a traditional concrete frame. The timber also acts as carbon storage with over 2,600 tonnes of C02 locked into the material. This effectively makes the building carbon negative for the first years of its usage. Its 3,852 cubic metres of CLT entirely make up the external, party and core walls, floors and stairs.
High Speed 1 and Crossrail pass under the building site, made the choice for CLT unequivocal with its lighter construction weight that enabled smaller foundations and a further two storeys of accommodation on to the building.
Ramboll carried out full structural engineering and the design of the 33m CLT structure, which necessitated the development of bespoke tools, details and techniques, where Ramboll engineers drew on their decade of experience in pushing the boundaries of this dynamic material. Working with specialist timber subcontractor B&K Structures, a series of technical challenges were overcome, to ensure an efficient, buildable and highly coordinated solution.
Dalston Works joins a number of other timber buildings in the area thanks to The London borough of Hackney’s ‘timber first’ policy established in 2012, making this central London borough a world leader for timber construction.
Ramboll director and CLT expert Gavin White comments: “It is exciting to see this milestone project completed. The height and size of the Dalston Works building shows how versatile CLT is, as well as its potential in leading the future of sustainable construction. We have been working on CLT projects for over 10 years now, so it’s heartening to see Hackney actively encouraging CLT construction.”
