Scandanavian architects C.F. Møller, in conjunction with DinellJohansson architects, have designed the world’s tallest timber skyscraper, a 34-storey residential building.

The design, which is one of three finalists for HSB Stockholm’s architectural competition 2023, will have a concrete core, but will be predominantly timber construction with the pillars and beams made of solid wood.

Inside the apartments, all the walls, ceilings and window frames are made of wood and will be visible from the exterior through large glass windows. Each apartment will have a glass-covered verandah, while the building itself will be powered by solar panels on the roof.

C.F.Moller architect Ola Jonsson said wood had great structural and technical qualities, and was the most environmentally sustainable building material to use.

“The total weight of the building is radically less and limits the amount of foundation needed. The façade is a double shell structure and the wood is protected from the outdoor climate therefore it doesn’t need any treatment or paint.

“And wood is very fire resistant, even more so than concrete and steel,” he said. “We have a long history of using wood in architecture and the renewed awareness of climate change demands us to rethink the way we build and the materials we use. “I’m certain that the wood industry in our country will understand this is a great market to push.

“The focus will be on designing buildings up to about 10 storeys. A 34-storey building is pushing wood to its limits with the techniques available today.”

HSB Stockholm is Sweden’s largest building society. It will be 100 years old in 2023, at which time an ultra-modern residential high-rise building will be erected in central Stockholm.

More information about this design is available at cfmoller.com