University of Denver Burwell Center for Career Achievement

Findings from an Integrated Design Workshop led the client and user groups to reach the same conclusion—that mass timber would help create a unique, authentic University of Denver experience by connecting students, employers and alumni within a distinctive setting. The three-story center, which houses classrooms, offices, meeting rooms and event spaces, features cross-laminated timber (CLT) floor panels, shear walls, and core, and glulam columns and beams. CLT walls are left exposed on both sides of the stairs, elevator and shaft enclosures, allowing the mass timber’s beauty to remain visible while still providing the required fire resistance. Mass timber supports the University’s biophilic goals and desire to create a healthy and welcoming atmosphere. It also supports their commitment to sustainability. A life cycle assessment found that using timber on the project reduced greenhouse gas emissions by about 50 percent compared with concrete or steel, avoiding 162 metric tons of CO2 equivalent. 23,000 sf / Type III-B construction