Level up your mass timber IQ & stay up-to-date on industry trends

Mass timber continues to push boundaries in construction, with major players embracing its potential for large-scale projects. From retail giants like Walmart to record-breaking structures, the industry is proving that sustainable, high-performance wood solutions are not just for small-scale buildings—they’re transforming the way we think about industrial and commercial construction.
Walmart has long been known for its massive footprint in retail, but now, it's making waves in sustainability with mass timber. The company recently unveiled plans for a cutting-edge corporate headquarters in Bentonville, Arkansas, incorporating mass timber as a key building material. The move reflects a growing trend among corporations looking to reduce their carbon impact while benefiting from the efficiency and durability of engineered wood.
Why does this matter? When industry giants like Walmart invest in mass timber, it signals a shift in the market. The company’s decision validates timber as a viable alternative to steel and concrete, proving that large-scale adoption isn’t just possible—it’s already happening.
While mass timber has made headlines for office buildings, schools, and residential developments, another sector is starting to take notice: industrial warehouses. Traditionally dominated by steel structures, warehouse developers are now exploring mass timber as an option for logistics hubs, manufacturing spaces, and distribution centers.
Why the interest? Speed of construction, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. Mass timber warehouses can be prefabricated off-site and assembled quickly, reducing construction timelines. They also store carbon instead of emitting it, making them a strong alternative for companies with sustainability goals. Plus, with exposed wood interiors becoming a sought-after design element, these warehouses offer a modern, natural aesthetic that stands apart from traditional industrial buildings.
Mass timber isn’t just gaining traction—it’s setting records. One of the most impressive recent projects is the Ascent Tower in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, which currently holds the title of the world’s tallest mass timber building at 284 feet (86.6 meters). This 25-story hybrid structure showcases what’s possible when timber technology meets bold architectural ambition.
But Ascent won’t hold the title forever. Across the globe, architects and engineers are planning even taller mass timber buildings, pushing the limits of wood construction and proving that engineered timber can compete with steel and concrete on height, strength, and durability.
With corporate investment, industrial expansion, and record-breaking projects, mass timber’s momentum is undeniable. More developers are recognizing its potential, and as regulations evolve to support taller and larger timber structures, we can expect to see even more ambitious projects take shape. So whether it's Walmart’s headquarters, the next wave of mass timber warehouses, or the world’s tallest wooden skyscrapers, one thing is clear: mass timber is no longer a niche solution—it’s a game-changer. Stay tuned for more insights, trends, and real-world applications as we continue tracking the rise of mass timber in modern construction.