6 iconic architectural projects featuring natural wood

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

Despite this trend, the allure of this noble material has persisted, and technological advancements have overcome many of the limitations that sidelined it. Today, timber can provide technical performance comparable to synthetic materials, revitalizing its application in significant projects. This shift has sparked renewed appreciation among architects and designers, who now see natural timber not only as an aesthetic resource but also as a technical ally in creating high-demand spaces. Below, we review six iconic projects where timber takes center stage.

Shigeru Ban – Aspen Art Museum

The Aspen Art Museum, designed by Shigeru Ban, captivates with its intricate exterior facade, a lattice of natural wood panels that serves as a thermal envelope. Inspired by the concept of a thermal envelope, the design allows the interior to maintain a stable temperature through the circulation of air in the outer 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 Tower of Wood

The EY Centre in Sydney has become an icon of the city’s skyline, notable not only for its imposing architecture but also for its innovative use of timber in its facade. The building features a double skin, where a transparent glass layer combines with a natural wood latticework that automatically regulates light and interior temperature. The mfree-SCCF system (Maintenance Free, Sustainable, Closed Cavity Facade) used in this project was developed specifically for this building and enhances thermal efficiency while adding a warm and unique texture to the architectural ensemble. This balance between technology and aesthetics has garnered 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 incorporates timber in a refined manner within its interiors. Each of the 58 bathrooms in 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 help achieve LEED Gold certification, a sustainability standard defining the entire Hudson Yards project. The meticulous selection and treatment of the timber veneers ensured impeccable color uniformity in each bathroom.

Diller Scofidio + Renfro – Tianjin Juilliard

The Tianjin Juilliard campus in China, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, engages with its environment through the careful integration of timber. The building’s facade combines steel and natural wood cladding, establishing a material connection with the surrounding landscape and the earthy tones of the adjacent park. The architectural team 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 renowned not only for its innovative exterior design but also for the careful selection of materials in its interiors. In 1993, the museum sought a wood flooring that was both visually appealing and extremely durable against high foot traffic. Through 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 showcased 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 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 aesthetic appeal.