Introduction to the Multilevel Building System Integrated Timber Central Core

Abstract

This research objective is to investigate the viability of timber high-rise buildings with an integrated central core by testing the core corner joints to provide a new opportunity for high-rise timber buildings. The Integrated Timber Central Core (ITCC) is composed of core columns and core beams made up of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels fabricated using Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL). Current timber high-rise CLT buildings use ‘stacked’ panels, require multiple close-spaced internal walls, and are cost-effective to around ten levels. The ITCC system requires considerably less timber and can be built to at least 20 stories. Successful laboratory tests for the ‘castellated’ core corner joints for a 20-level building are presented in this paper.