The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) is now accepting submissions for the 2023-24 CTBUH Mass Timber Student Design Competition—culminating with the top finalists presenting to the jury for winning distinctions at a virtual event in fall 2024.

The goal of the competition, which is open to all students who are currently enrolled at U.S. and Canada-based institutes, is to shed new light on the meaning and value of tall buildings in modern society. This competition focuses on the use of mass timber in multi-story buildings through the lens of affordable housing that emphasizes rapid development. The only stipulation is that the building should be multi-storied (i.e., not a pavilion or single space), and be designed to maximize the use and expression of mass timber while taking into consideration the 2021 IBC building code and current standards. It is also suggested that participants consider prefabricated components or volumetric modular approach to highlight the benefit of utilizing mass timber for rapid development.

Participants should engage with the exploration and resolution of the synergistic relationship between a tall building and its urban setting; how that tall building can be inspired by the cultural, physical, and environmental aspects of its site; how the program of the building is influenced by the micro and macro site/urban conditions; and how the building responds to global issues. Proposals should show evidence of a clear understanding of how considerations of structure, environment, servicing, etc. are as vital to the success of a tall building as the form, materials, aesthetics, etc.