March 11, 2026
Mass Timber and Cross Laminated Timber construction are gaining traction across the Mid-Atlantic.
Mass timber and Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) construction are gaining traction across the Mid-Atlantic as developers and owners look for innovative ways to build more sustainably while creating visually distinctive spaces. Once considered a niche structural system, mass timber is now emerging as a viable option for a wide range of building types, including office, residential, and mixed-use developments.
Arium AE is currently designing a mass timber project that highlights the potential of this building system through two new structures in Maryland, a two-story multifamily and retail building and an adjacent three-story office building. By utilizing CLT structural systems, the design leverages engineered wood’s strength and versatility while allowing the natural beauty of exposed timber elements to shape the architectural and biophilic human experience.
Mass timber offers several advantages beyond aesthetics. CLT panels are manufactured by layering dimensional lumber in alternating directions, creating strong structural components capable of supporting multi-story construction. Because many timber components are prefabricated, projects can benefit from improved construction efficiency and streamlined on-site installation.
Sustainability is another key driver behind the growing interest in mass timber. Wood is a renewable material that stores carbon throughout its lifecycle, helping reduce the embodied carbon associated with traditional structural materials such as steel and concrete. These environmental benefits, combined with the warmth and character of exposed wood, are helping mass timber become an increasingly attractive option for forward-thinking developments.
At Arium AE, our integrated architecture and engineering teams work closely with clients to evaluate structural systems, coordinate building systems, and navigate evolving code considerations associated with mass timber construction.
Interested in exploring mass timber for your next project? Connect with Arium AE to learn how our team can help bring innovative timber structures to life.
See more about the project in our portfolio: Mass Timber – Arium AE – Projects
