A new student housing development near Ohio State University has set a remarkable benchmark in mass timber construction. The Intro Columbus, a 13-story mass timber student housing project, has topped out 10 weeks ahead of schedule, marking a significant achievement for the construction team and setting a new record in the U.S. for the tallest mass timber student housing structure.
What Happened
The Intro Columbus project, located in Columbus, Ohio, broke ground on September 8, 2025, and reached its topping out milestone exactly one year later. This 158-foot-tall, 242,000-square-foot building will include 186 units upon completion. The construction team, led by Columbus-based Elford Construction, utilized glulam columns and beams along with cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels to achieve rapid construction speeds. The team installed 44 CLT panels per day, allowing them to build two-and-a-half floors every two to three weeks. This efficient process enabled the project to top out well ahead of its original November target date.
The use of mass timber, sourced domestically from Alabama, not only expedited the construction timeline but also provided significant environmental benefits. According to the design firm DLR Group, the timber structure will sequester 1,128 metric tons of carbon compared to traditional steel and concrete designs. The project team is now moving forward with interior framing, MEP rough-in, and the installation of exterior wall panels and windows on the lower floors. The construction is slated for completion in 2027.
What This Means for Your Business
For AECM professionals, the success of the Intro Columbus project underscores the potential of mass timber as a viable alternative to steel and concrete, particularly in an era of rising steel prices. The accelerated timeline not only reduces labor costs but also allows for faster occupancy and revenue generation for developers. The environmental benefits also align with increasing regulatory and consumer demands for sustainable building practices. Companies involved in mass timber construction may find new opportunities in sectors beyond housing, such as data centers, as highlighted by Skanska in a recent webinar.
What US Operators Should Watch
As this project demonstrates, mass timber is gaining traction as a sustainable and efficient construction material. AECM professionals should monitor developments in mass timber regulations and certifications, as well as potential federal incentives for sustainable building practices. The rapid completion of the Intro Columbus project could also influence upcoming bid opportunities and procurement strategies, particularly in markets where sustainable construction is prioritized. Keeping an eye on steel price trends and mass timber adoption in other sectors could provide a competitive edge.
Source: https://www.constructiondive.com/news/mass-timber-ohio-state-student-housing-tops-out/830601/. Read the original story ->
Is your firm ready for what’s next?
VisioneerIT helps AECM and government contractors modernize operations, achieve compliance, and implement AI.
Explore VisioneerIT Solutions →
