Wood Innovation and Design Centre

The Wood Innovation and Design Centre (WIDC) was, at the time, the tallest modern timber building in the world at 29.5 meters (97 feet), from top of concrete to top of roof. The lower three floors are occupied by the new University of British Columbia (UNBC) Master of Engineering in Integrated Wood Design program, while the upper three floors are available to commercial tenants. WIDC is an iconic presence in the Prince George downtown core.

The structure consists of an innovative corrugated composite CLT floor assembly on glulam post and beam and an all CLT core. Much of the structure is left exposed, and therefore designed to provide the required fire resistance through charring. Concealed pre-engineered aluminum dovetail connections are used throughout for fast assembly and fire resistant connections. PSL transfer beams, chosen for their low moisture content and high strength span over the laboratory and lecture theatre.

The façade glazing is directly mounted on LVL mullions, and the solid portions of the façade are clad with charred cedar board, an ancient Japanese technique designed to increase the material’s resistance to fungus and lower flame spread. Exposed LVL slabs (Brisco Fineline) are also used for the entrance canopy and lobby feature stair.