Commercial

Central City, Surrey, B.C., Canada. Bing Thom Architects.

Wood brings warmth and natural beauty – as well as structural strength – to all kinds of commercial buildings, from retail shops and restaurants, to small office buildings to warehouses. Wood is architecturally expressive, for unique restaurant design and one-of-a-kind retail environments. Wood can be lightweight and delicate – and it can reveal the drama of exposed timbers, natural wood flooring, warm window frames and elegant panelling and cabinetry. Nothing showcases the renewable beauty of nature and adds value like wood. 

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Did you know?
Wood is significantly less heat-conductive than steel or concrete. Heavy timbers have a particular advantage in a fire because they char on the outside while retaining strength, slowing combustion and allowing time to evacuate the building. 

WoodWorks US Cost Comparison Calculator (BETA version) Use this calculator in the United States to compare costs of six material choices for offices, motels and restaurants, plus an average for wood and non-wood materials.
WoodWORKS! BC Has a series of case studies on how to build with wood in buildings such as restaurants and hotels.
FPInnovations, Forintek Division Has case studies including concert halls.
The Atrium - Spec Building Revitalizes Moribund City Block This article in SAB Magazine discusses how a high-density office building in downtown Victoria responds to challenges of revitalizing a moribund area; and how the economics of typical high-rise office developments can be made to work in a mid-rise, green building format.