6 iconic architectural projects featuring natural timber

Timber has been, since ancient times, an essential material in architecture, used in both structures and cladding as well as furniture. However, the advancement of stricter technical regulations and the perception of high maintenance led to its gradual decline in large-scale buildings and contemporary projects. As modern architecture solidified, timber was displaced in favor of materials deemed more resilient or lower maintenance.

Nevertheless, the allure of this noble material has persisted, and technological evolution has allowed many of the limitations that relegated it to be overcome. Today, timber can provide technical performances equivalent to those of synthetic materials, revitalizing its application in significant projects. This has led to a renewed appreciation by architects and designers, who find in natural timber not only an aesthetic resource but also a technical ally in creating high-demand spaces. Below, we review six emblematic projects where timber takes center stage.

Shigeru Ban – Aspen Art Museum

The Aspen Art Museum, designed by Shigeru Ban, captivates with its complex exterior façade, a lattice of natural timber panels that serves as a thermal envelope. Inspired by the concept of a thermal envelope, the design allows the interior areas to maintain a stable temperature through the circulation of air in the exterior spaces. This envelope not only regulates climate control but also interacts with light, filtering sunlight through the glass walls and skylight. Collaboration with Parklex Prodema was crucial, enabling the creation of a full-scale model that ensured precision in the final design.

FJMT – EY Centre Timber Tower

The EY Centre in Sydney has established itself as an icon of the city’s skyline, notable not only for its imposing architecture but also for the innovation in timber use in its façade. The building employs a double skin, where a transparent glass layer combines with natural timber latticework that automatically regulates light and interior temperature. The mfree-SCCF system (Maintenance Free, Sustainable, Closed Cavity Façade) used in this project was developed specifically for this building and not only enhances thermal efficiency but also adds a warm and unique texture to the architectural ensemble. This balance between technology and aesthetics has been recognized with multiple international awards.

Foster and Partners – 50 Hudson Yards

In one of New York’s most ambitious real estate developments, the 50 Hudson Yards skyscraper employs timber in a refined manner in its interiors. Each of the 58 bathrooms within the tower is clad with natural walnut panels, chosen for their water resistance and ability to maintain elegance and performance in high-use environments. These panels, manufactured by Parklex Prodema, not only add a touch of distinction but also contribute to achieving LEED Gold certification, a sustainability standard that defines the entire Hudson Yards project. The meticulous selection and treatment of the timber veneers ensured that each bathroom reflected impeccable color uniformity.

Diller Scofidio + Renfro – Tianjin Juilliard

The Tianjin Juilliard campus in China, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, is a work that engages with its environment through the careful integration of timber. The building’s façade combines steel and natural timber cladding, creating a material connection with the surrounding landscape and the earthy tones of the adjacent park. The team of architects actively participated in material selection, closely collaborating with Parklex Prodema to achieve a harmonious synthesis between the contemporary aesthetics of the building and nature.

Frank Gehry – Guggenheim Bilbao

The Guggenheim Bilbao, a masterpiece by Frank Gehry, is not only notable for its innovative exterior design but also for the careful selection of materials in its interiors. In 1993, the museum sought a timber floor that was not only visually appealing but also extremely durable against high foot traffic. Thanks to collaborative research with Parklex Prodema, a solution was developed that allowed for the use of natural timber in flooring, ensuring exceptional durability. More than 1.3 million annual visitors have walked on this floor, which continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience while retaining its original warmth.

Philippe Starck – Restaurant L’Avenue

Renowned designer Philippe Starck expressed his unique style in the restaurant L’Avenue in Paris, where timber plays a central role in creating sophisticated environments. Inspired by classic Parisian glamour with a contemporary twist, Starck chose American Oak flooring that connects the spaces The Salon and The Chalet, two contrasting yet complementary atmospheres. Natural timber not only provides timeless beauty but is also prepared to withstand the intense foot traffic of the restaurant, meeting the highest technical standards without sacrificing its aesthetic appeal.