77 | Wood!
showcasing the simplicity and subsequent efficiency of both the tools and workflow derived from the circular technique. The concept was inspired by the 2017 Dutch Design Week People’s Pavilion by ARUP and Bureau SLA, which featured a similar strategy to create a shell structure. In this project, the concept is taken further and used to create floor levels and stairs, enabling the visitor to climb past the strapped-details and emerge above the structure for panoramic views. The tower stands out clearly from its surroundings, being the only completely timber building in the area. The timber used is the same grain, type and profile throughout the structure, a decision made to simplify and rationalise the construction process. A total of approximately 2,500m was used. By using 50x150 millimeter profile douglas pine, the tower could be built similarly to a factory process where timber lengths were measured and cut to the specifications
Fig. 6: bottom-up view: on the final deck of the complete tower
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of an order sheet in advance, and stock piled on site for use during the build. The length of each component was written in wax on the end grain, doubling as a labelling system so each length of timber could be easily installed in the correct order. The architects chose to use untreated, unplaned wood due to its natural qualities of water content moderation and rough texture, meaning it is less likely to expand due to rainwater exposure and provides better grip under foot to ease accessibility when wet. The timber was supplied by Douglas Hout, and sourced from sustainable forestries in the Netherlands, Belgium, France and Germany. The structure is divided in two halves both visually and spatially. One side features open elevations facing west, creating a tall timber gateway leading to the gardens of the restaurant. Looking up as they walk through, the visitor is greeted with an expansive void as the timber stretches