History

By: Arch. René Navarrete

Wood has been a material present in architecture since time immemorial. Its use not only reflects human adaptation to its environment, but also contains a rich technical and cultural legacy that has evolved over the centuries. This legacy manifests itself in various forms, from ancestral construction techniques to the incorporation of aesthetic and symbolic elements that transcend generations.

Wood is a material that has been with humanity since its origins; both for survival and construction needs or, with various types of uses such as weapons or tools. It is a material that has always been linked to civilizations, regardless of the time or geographical location where they were.

In the specific field of architecture, it is not only a finishing or structural material, but on more occasions than we think it is the architecture itself. There is such a variety of possible woods to use, that among its wide range we always find the right one for the purpose we use it for, whether due to its physical, mechanical or organoleptic properties.

However, today wood does not enjoy the acceptance that its history and tradition would grant it, just by asserting its continuous presence with the evolution of humanity. It is from the beginning of the 20th century when this link between man and wood is disconnected, but what was the reason for this? Let us, then, take a journey through history to reach that turning point, locate our origin with wood, going through aspects such as the technical, the aesthetic, the cultural and the sustainable, and thus get closer to knowing where we are and reflect on where we are going or can go with this material.

The historical

Wood is perhaps the first material used by man for structural purposes; starting from the Paleolithic and Neolithic eras, passing through Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome and later the Middle Ages and Renaissance, we arrive at the Industrial Revolution with wood together with stone and raw and baked earth as one of the main actors within the architectural and construction materials, both as an auxiliary material and as a protagonist to achieve the most diverse and challenging design and/or construction challenges.

The use of wood in architecture dates back to the first human civilizations. From the huts of hunter-gatherers to the complex urban structures of today, wood has been fundamental in the development of architecture. Its advantages in terms of availability and ease of work made it the first choice for the construction of houses.

In Europe, the Middle Ages marked the rise of wooden architecture. The construction of half-timbered houses, with exposed beams and stucco walls, became a dominant feature in many countries. This style not only provided shelter, but was also a symbol of status and craftsmanship. As building techniques evolved, so did the use of wood, with the introduction of more complex supporting structures, allowing for the creation of large open spaces and high ceilings.

In Japan, temple architecture reflects a reverence for nature, and wood has been used in traditional architecture for centuries. In their Buddhist and Shinto temples, which are regarded as spaces where the gods dwell, the use of wood from local species is essential for both its durability and natural beauty.

In Europe, Gothic cathedrals made extensive use of wood in the construction of complex roofs and trusses. The wooden beams of these structures not only served a functional purpose, but were also decorated with intricate carvings that told biblical stories and celebrated community values. The same wood, steeped in history and culture, became a symbol of collective identity.

The emergence of machines and structural steel on the construction scene marked a before and after in the use of wood in construction, although not everything was lost, as at this time new tools and machines also appeared that further facilitated the use and application of wood in different areas.

Parallel to this, what was called the “modern movement” in architecture was consolidated at the beginning of the 20th century, where the use of reinforced concrete and steel was mostly privileged, relegating wood to a secondary role and even disappearing in many of the examples of that period, fortunately not in all, although losing part of its structural and architectural contribution to the buildings.

From that moment on, wood tends to disappear from the scene as an important structural material in buildings designed and built in the following years.

The technical side

Wood construction techniques have been refined over time, with each culture bringing its own ingenuity to the field: from the log houses of Nordic peoples to the advanced wooden structures of Japanese temples, we find a diversity of astonishing assembly and construction methods.

To cite one example: the use of dovetail joints in carpentry not only provides structural strength, but also allows for tensile assembly without the need for nails, which is a testament to the deep knowledge that craftsmen have developed about the properties of wood.

In the Americas, indigenous peoples had a deep connection with nature and used wood not only to build homes, but also to create sacred spaces. Log houses, such as those of the Native peoples of the Northwest Coast, exemplify the integration between environment and architecture.

In the contemporary realm, these traditional techniques have been rediscovered, incorporating modern technology to improve durability and energy efficiency, reflecting a clear technical heritage that continues to be relevant.

Wood has a number of technical advantages that make it extremely valuable in architecture. Firstly, it is a lightweight material compared to others such as concrete or steel, which reduces the overall weight of structures and makes them easier to transport and handle during construction. This lightness allows for taller and more complex buildings to be built without the need to reinforce the foundation too much.

In addition, wood has outstanding thermal properties: it acts as an excellent insulator, keeping the interior temperature of buildings within a comfortable range and contributing to energy efficiency. Its acoustic properties are also notable: wood can absorb sound, resulting in quiet and pleasant indoor environments.

The versatility of wood makes it an ideal material for different architectural styles. From the construction of single-family homes to large commercial and cultural complexes, wood can be adapted to various shapes and uses. In addition, modern techniques such as cross-laminated timber (CLT) construction have made it possible to design larger and stronger structures, further expanding architectural possibilities.

The aesthetic

The natural beauty of wood is undeniable. Its textures, patterns and colours offer a variety of aesthetic possibilities that can enhance the visual quality of any space. Wood can be used in both structure and finishes, allowing for a sense of warmth and connection to nature. This is especially important in a world where urbanisation is on the rise and many people long to reconnect with natural elements.

Wood also allows for great flexibility in design. Architects can sculpt and mould wood in different ways, creating organic and fluid forms that are often difficult to achieve with other materials. This has led to a resurgence of interest in wood architecture in contemporary design, where both form and functionality are valued.

The cultural

Beyond its physical and aesthetic properties, wood has deep cultural significance in many societies. In various traditions, wood is seen not only as a building material, but as a material with sacred or symbolic considerations. For example, in many indigenous cultures in the Americas, wood is associated with the cycle of life, spirituality, and connection to the earth.

There are iconic examples of how wood can be used to create spaces that are not only functional but also spiritual. Features such as the use of untreated wood and attention to detail and assembly reflect a deep connection to nature.

In the contemporary context, the use of wood can be a statement of intent. By choosing wood as the primary material in a project, architects are often making a statement about sustainability and connection to nature. This is especially relevant at a time when environmental awareness is more important than ever.

Sustainability

Sustainability has become a central theme in architecture and construction today. Wood, being a renewable resource, offers an eco-friendly option compared to materials such as concrete and steel, which require considerable energy to produce. By using wood from sustainable sources, such as responsibly managed forests, the carbon footprint of construction can be reduced.

Wooden buildings can also contribute to the health of the built environment. As a material that helps regulate humidity and improve indoor air quality, wooden buildings can create healthier spaces for their occupants. Furthermore, with the increase in technologies, it is possible to create high-rise buildings with a high level of construction complexity, proving that wood is not only suitable for small structures, but also for large urban projects.

Accepting that wood has perhaps been the most widely used construction material throughout human history, its role in architecture has evolved significantly and continues to be the subject of research, innovation and rediscovery. With an increasing focus on sustainability, energy efficiency and aesthetics, the immediate future (near, medium and long term) of wood in architecture is presented as a fertile field for development.

Therefore, it is worth reflecting on how wood can play a crucial role in future architecture, considering the trends, technological innovations and challenges it still faces.

Where are we going?

In the near future, concerns about climate change and reducing the carbon footprint are the most important factors driving the use of wood in architecture. Wood, being a renewable resource, offers a more sustainable alternative compared to materials such as concrete and steel. Its ability to store carbon during its life cycle makes it an ideal material for projects that seek to be more sustainable. In the short term, more architects and builders are expected to begin integrating wood into their projects to meet green building standards and certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).

On another, no less important note, technology in the wood industry has advanced considerably in recent years: innovations such as glulam and CLT allow the manufacture of larger and stronger wood panels and beams. This technology not only improves safety and durability, but also facilitates the design of tall and complex buildings that were previously unthinkable in wood. In the short term, more companies are expected to engage in the production and development of these technologies, leading to an increase in the variety of applications of wood in construction.

At the same time, environmental awareness and education are increasing, and so is awareness of the importance of using sustainable products in architecture.

Universities and schools of architecture are beginning to include studies on sustainable materials, particularly wood, in their curricula. This will enable a new generation of architects and designers who understand the value and potential of wood in construction. Seminars, workshops and courses on wood construction techniques are becoming more common, helping to foster a culture of respect and appreciation for this material.

In the medium-term future, an increase in high-rise construction using wood will be observed. This increase in construction is expected as the combination of modern technologies in wood manufacturing and the growing acceptance of wood as a solid structural material is leading to a paradigm shift in the construction sector. Cities in North America, particularly in Canada, and others in Europe are already promoting the use of wood in tall buildings.

This growth will not only result in more high-rise buildings, but will also pose a re-evaluation of the use of urban space. Wood can help decrease the intensity of land use and promote construction in previously underdeveloped areas. In addition, these tall wooden buildings are expected to be exceptional from an aesthetic point of view, creating unique spaces that combine nature and urbanism.

On another note, the development of prefabricated construction solutions is another trend that is expected to expand in the medium-term future. Prefabricated construction techniques using wood offer significant reductions in construction time and operating costs. Parts can be manufactured under controlled conditions and then assembled on site, ensuring high quality and a reduction in material waste.

As the demand for fast and efficient construction increases, wood prefabrication may become a popular solution for residential and commercial projects. Furthermore, this methodology can be particularly useful in emergency situations, where shelters need to be built quickly.

Also, bioclimatic design will once again take on special relevance as it refers to the creation of spaces that take advantage of environmental conditions to maximize energy efficiency. In this medium-term future, it is anticipated that wood will play a fundamental role in this approach. The thermal and acoustic properties of wood make it an ideal material for buildings that require a sustainable approach.

Architects will be able to design buildings that are not only beautiful, but also highly efficient in the use of energy and resources. Integrating wood with natural solutions such as green roofs or solar energy systems will have a positive impact on reducing the ecological footprint of buildings.

Finally, in the long term, new technologies will be integrated as time progresses into the future, as wood will be further integrated with new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). These technologies can help monitor and optimize the performance of wooden buildings in real time. Smart systems could manage energy efficiency, air quality, and environmental conditions in buildings, thus ensuring a healthy and efficient environment.

Furthermore, 3D printing, although still in its early stages in the construction sector, is beginning to be introduced into the creation of wooden architectural elements. In the long term, we could see buildings completely 3D printed using a type of recycled and treated wood, which would completely change the landscape of construction and architectural design.

We cannot forget that the circular economy is gaining ground as a viable approach to sustainable development. In the long-term future, wood is expected to play a crucial role in this new way of thinking about production and consumption. The recovery of wood from demolished buildings will be encouraged and used in new construction and renovations.

Wood recycling and reuse will not only help reduce waste, but will also provide a historical context that connects to the past. Through processes in which reclaimed wood is integrated into contemporary architecture, a rich and diverse story can be told, while promoting environmental awareness in the community.

We will then need to develop climate resilience and adaptation as climate change is having a significant impact on how we build and design. In the long term, architects and urban planners will need to consider this climate resilience in their projects. Wood, as a renewable and sustainable material, has an essential role to play in creating buildings that adapt to a changing climate.

This could involve implementing new wood treatments that preserve them even better from moisture, pests and fires. Likewise, wooden architectures can also be designed with features that help mitigate floods and other natural disasters. By integrating elements of resilience, wood buildings will not only be aesthetically pleasing, but also functional and safe in harsh weather conditions.

Conclusion

The future of wood in architecture is promising and multifaceted: from its role in sustainability and energy efficiency to its ability to provide innovative solutions required by an ever-changing world, wood will continue to be a fundamental material. As we move towards a more conscious future, where the health of the planet and its inhabitants is paramount, wood will become a symbol of hopeful renovations in construction and an enduring legacy of the union between humanity and nature.

The key to success will lie in how architects, engineers, designers and industry professionals commit to integrating wood into their projects in a way that not only solves contemporary challenges, but also considers the impact they will have on generations to come. Ultimately, wood is not just a resource: it is a bridge to a more sustainable, beautiful and connected future with our cultural heritage.