Want to design buildings that are beautiful, efficient, and built to last — without blowing the budget?

In this episode of the Mass Timber Group Show, Kathy Shaloo Berg, AIA , partner at ZGF Architects, shares the real-world strategies her team uses to unlock the full potential of mass timber. From precision system integration at the Rocky Mountain Institute (dubbed “the Swiss watch of buildings”) to designing for 500-year lifespans at the PAE Living Building, Kathy breaks down the design moves, cost-saving tactics, and long-term thinking that set high-performance mass timber buildings apart. Whether you’re an architect, developer, or builder, you’ll walk away with practical lessons and fresh ideas to apply to your own projects.

The Swiss Watch Approach: Precision Meets Beauty

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When it comes to showcasing mass timber, the magic happens when beauty and building systems coexist. As Kathy explained, the first question her team asks is: How much of the structure should be visible, and how do we elegantly hide or integrate the mechanical, electrical, and fire systems?

One of her most celebrated examples is the Rocky Mountain Institute in Basalt, Colorado — a small but groundbreaking project. The design team used 9-inch deep CLT beams crossed with 3-ply CLT panels, creating a cavity that housed all the building’s essential systems — from electrical conduit to lighting and sensors. The result was so precise and elegantly executed, they nicknamed it “the Swiss watch of buildings.” With 80% of the timber left exposed, occupants experienced the beauty of the wood without the visual clutter of systems — a perfect marriage of function and design.

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Innovation on the Horizon: What’s Next for Mass Timber?

Kathy is constantly looking ahead to what’s possible with mass timber — and the innovation isn’t slowing down. She highlighted cutting-edge research coming out of Oregon State University and the TallWood Design Institute , where new mass timber products and design possibilities are continuously emerging.

One of her current projects features a sawtooth roof made from folded CLT, using the panels themselves as structural beams. This required rigorous testing and approvals, but the result is an efficient, expressive design that brings beautiful north light deep into the building. For Kathy, every project is a chance to push the material further — to explore what mass timber can do next.

Is Mass Timber a Fad? Here’s Why That’s a Hard No.

What about critics who say the “mass timber look” might be a passing trend? Kathy’s response was clear: “We’ve been looking at wood for thousands of years.” From ancient Japanese temples to centuries-old European churches, wood’s appeal endures — because it offers something that steel and concrete simply can’t match. As long as architects keep innovating with new forms and applications, mass timber will continue to be a vital part of the built environment.

Mass Timber for Childcare and Healthcare: Healthier Buildings for the People Who Need It Most

How can mass timber can improve health and well-being, especially in childcare and healthcare facilities? Children and patients spend long hours touching, breathing, and living with building materials, so healthy materials matter — and mass timber offers biophilic benefits that reduce stress and support recovery.

Kathy and her team even designed a fully mass timber childcare center, though COVID delayed its construction. She sees huge potential for pre-manufactured, quickly deployable mass timber childcare facilities — something communities desperately need as childcare shortages grow. And in healthcare, ZGF has published a white paper exploring how mass timber can directly contribute to patient healing — from lowering cortisol levels to creating calming environments for staff and families.

Mass Timber Isn’t Too Expensive — If You Plan It Right

Cost concerns are still one of the biggest barriers for mass timber adoption — but Kathy’s experience shows those fears are often misplaced. The secret? Commit to mass timber early in the design process. When the structure is known upfront, architects can design for efficient system integration, pre-drill penetrations at the factory (instead of paying expensive labor to do it onsite), and reduce unnecessary finishes by exposing the wood itself.

With this whole-building cost mindset, Kathy’s team has delivered mass timber buildings comparable to or even cheaper than steel and concrete. For developers worried mass timber will blow their budget, the real takeaway is this: Early decisions save money. Late changes cost money.

Designing for 500 Years — Not Just the Next Code Cycle

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Kathy and her ZGF colleagues are also redefining what long-term durability means. Inspired by her work on the PAE Living Building, Kathy now asks: “Why not design for 500 years?” That mindset shifts decisions — from spending more on durable, repairable materials to thinking about future climate adaptability and minimizing future demolition or reconstruction needs.

This long view, inspired by ancient buildings that still stand today, helps clients invest in what matters — like high-quality windows, durable facades, and adaptable floorplans— while cutting costs on systems that will inevitably change, like furniture or tech infrastructure.

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Key Takeaways for Architects, Developers & Builders

Kathy’s advice for anyone working with mass timber — or considering it for the first time — is clear:

✅ Showcase the wood, but plan for systems integration from day one.

✅ Innovate — but don’t reinvent the wheel every time. Learn from past projects.

✅ Make the mass timber decision early to unlock cost savings and system efficiencies.

✅ Think long-term. Buildings designed for 500 years just make smarter financial and environmental sense.

✅ For childcare, healthcare, and community buildings, healthy materials aren’t a luxury — they’re essential.

Mass timber isn’t just a building material — it’s a smarter way to design for people, the planet, and the pocketbook. And if you’re wondering whether it can truly stand the test of time, Kathy Berg and her projects offer proof you can touch.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is mass timber?
   ‍Mass timber refers to large, solid wood panels used in construction, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional building materials like steel and concrete.
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2. How does mass timber contribute to sustainability?
   Mass timber is a renewable resource that sequesters carbon, reducing the overall carbon footprint of buildings.
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3. What are some innovative applications of mass timber?
   ‍Mass timber is being used in various projects, including childcare facilities, healthcare buildings, and office spaces, showcasing its versatility.
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4. How can mass timber be cost-effective?
   ‍Early integration of mass timber in the design process can lead to significant cost savings by optimizing building systems and reducing material waste.
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5. What is the 500-year building concept?
   The 500-year building concept encourages architects to design structures that are durable, adaptable, and maintainable over a long lifespan, ensuring their continued relevance and functionality.

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Trending in Timber: NYC’s Largest Mass Timber Project + Under Armour’s Sustainable HQ

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Exploring the Future of Mass Timber Construction

On the Mass Timber Group Show, co-hosts Nic Wilson and Brady Potts discussed significant advancements in mass timber, including the largest project in New York, groundbreaking medical facilities, and the impact of tariffs on the industry.

This article highlights key takeaways from their discussion, showcasing exciting projects and the evolving landscape of mass timber construction.

Governor's Island: A Landmark Mass Timber Project

$700 Million Redevelopment Set to Break Ground in 2026

📍 New York City, New York

The $700 million redevelopment of Governor's Island is poised to become the largest mass timber project in New York. Spanning 400,000 square feet, this ambitious project is set to break ground in 2026. New York City Mayor Eric Adams emphasized the project's significance, stating, "Nestled in New York Harbor between Brooklyn and Manhattan, this redevelopment remains on track to break ground next year."

The project will feature community spaces and outdoor pavilions, reflecting a growing trend in the industry towards creating vibrant community hubs. With an estimated 4.3 million visitors to the nearby Statue of Liberty annually, the Governor's Island project is expected to attract significant foot traffic, further promoting mass timber's visibility and appeal.

Negev Health City Medical Center: A Global Healthcare Initiative

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A $1.2 Billion Medical Center with a Focus on Biophilic Design

📍 Israel

In another exciting development, renowned architect Tye Farrow is leading the design of the Negev Health City Medical Center, which will cover 3 million square feet and provide 1,900 hospital beds. This project, developed in partnership with Rubenstein Partners, is set to be one of the largest medical centers globally, with a construction cost estimated at $1.2 billion.

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Farrow's design philosophy emphasizes biophilic elements, integrating nature into healthcare environments to enhance patient well-being. "The environments that you are surrounded by affect your physical and mental health," Farrow noted, highlighting the importance of creating healing spaces. The center will also feature a public horticulture park focused on semi-desert plants, further promoting sustainability.

Tariffs and Their Impact on the Mass Timber Industry Navigating Uncertainty in Lumber Pricing

As the mass timber industry continues to grow, recent tariff developments are raising concerns among stakeholders. The U.S. imports approximately 30% of its softwood lumber, with 25% coming from Canada. The reintroduction of tariffs is expected to impact pricing across the board, with potential increases in costs for mass timber products.

Co-host Brady Potts explained, "Are tariffs here to stay? or to go? long-term? short-term? we don’t really know. But it will have impacts in the mass timber industry." Historical examples, such as tariffs on South Korean washing machines, illustrate how tariffs can lead to price increases not only for the affected goods but also for related products.

Link to Full Tariff Article

Mass Timber in Hospitality: The Eglise Restaurant

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A Luxurious Dining Experience in Montana

📍 Yellowstone Club, Montana

The recently completed Eglise restaurant at the Yellowstone Club exemplifies the growing trend of incorporating mass timber into hospitality projects. This 14,000 square foot mid-mountain restaurant serves as a base camp for a 1,000-acre ski hill and features stunning views of Montana's Gallatin Mountain Range.

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Designed by CCY Architects, the restaurant utilizes cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam columns, minimizing its carbon footprint while enhancing the dining experience. As Nic Wilson noted, "Seeing timber is a great complement to that environment," highlighting the aesthetic and environmental benefits of mass timber in resort settings.

Under Armour's New Headquarters: A Hub for Innovation

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A 280,000 Square Foot Mass Timber Facility in Baltimore

📍 Baltimore, Maryland

Under Armour is making waves with its new 280,000 square foot mass timber headquarters located on the Port Covington campus. This facility will not only serve as a workspace but also as a testing ground for new products and gear. The building features a track, field area, basketball court, and a flagship retail store, showcasing the brand's commitment to innovation and sustainability.

The project team, including ASPECT Structural Engineers, Gensler, Thornton Tomasetti and Whiting-Turning, among others, is focused on creating a world-class facility that embodies the principles of mass timber construction. As the project progresses, it will serve as a model for future developments in the industry.

Conclusion

The mass timber industry is at a pivotal moment, with groundbreaking projects and evolving market dynamics shaping its future. From the Governor's Island redevelopment to the Negev Health City Medical Center, these initiatives highlight the versatility and sustainability of mass timber in various sectors.

As the industry navigates challenges such as tariffs and pricing fluctuations, the commitment to innovation and sustainability remains strong. The upcoming 2025 Mass Timber Group Summit in Denver will provide an opportunity for industry leaders to discuss these trends and explore the future of mass timber construction.

Whether you’re an architect, engineer, or developer, one thing is clear: Mass timber is here to stay, and its potential is limitless.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is mass timber, and why is it important?

Mass timber is an engineered wood product used in construction, valued for its sustainability, strength, and versatility, providing a low-carbon alternative to steel and concrete.

What makes the Governor's Island project significant?

The Governor's Island project will be the largest mass timber development in New York, featuring community spaces and outdoor pavilions, and is expected to attract millions of visitors annually.

How does the Negev Health City Medical Center incorporate biophilic design?

The medical center's design emphasizes natural elements to enhance patient well-being, including a public horticulture park focused on semi-desert plants.

What impact do tariffs have on the mass timber industry?

Tariffs can lead to increased prices for softwood lumber and related products, affecting the overall cost structure of mass timber construction.

How is mass timber being used in hospitality projects?

Mass timber is increasingly being integrated into hospitality projects, such as the Eglise restaurant, which enhances the aesthetic and environmental appeal of luxury dining experiences.

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