NLT Pavilions
Tahoe Region, CA
April 2025 - Present
Tahoe Region, CA
April 2025 - Present
A common method of creating mass timber panels in the US is through gluing layers of wood together to produce a product called Cross Laminated Timber (CLT). Other methods exist though, and they require no glue and less expensive machinery, which makes them well suited to manufacturers who want to test the mass timber market without committing to massive capital expenditures. One of these alternative methods, which uses nails to connect individual dimensional lumber pieces into a larger panel, is called Nail Laminated Timber (NLT).
This project, undertaken as part of our work with Berkeley Assistant Professor Paul Mayencourt, is a study into the architectural possibilities of NLT through the design of three pavilions for outdoor recreation.
This project, undertaken as part of our work with Berkeley Assistant Professor Paul Mayencourt, is a study into the architectural possibilities of NLT through the design of three pavilions for outdoor recreation.
Pavilion 1: Rest Station
The first pavilion is a bathroom and wash stand, constructed from large panels lifted into place by crane trucks. Each panel is built up from dimensional lumber with different depths (e.g. 2x4s with 2x8s every 18”). The deeper members function as attachment points, drainage channels, plumbing chases, etc.
The building is connected to the ground via a site-built galvanized steel structure. The steel posts start at grade and extend above the floor beams, making the floor appear sunken yet floating. The posts go up to a cylindrical beam which connects to the NLT roof panel’s deeper members. The roof panels overhang beyond this cylindrical beam, emphasizing the legibility of the panel as panel.
A stainless steel bathroom block is tucked into the NLT panels and holds the wet functions of the pavilion.
The roof panels are clad in weathering steel. They tilt and pinch a vertical panel with glass cladding on either side, through which solar hot water piping is visible.
Pavilion 2: Bus Stop Tea House
Smaller lengths of dimensional lumber, which would otherwise be turned into sawdust or mulch, are nailed together to form massive wood blocks. These blocks are stacked up to create a counterweight for horizontally and vertically cantilevered NLT panels.
Wooden separators placed between the wood blocks cantilever out to hold gear while people take a break.
A waterproof membrane is stretched and tightened over the roof panels to protect the lower level from the elements. It also creates a special super-tent on the upper level. Depending on the weather, the membrane can be opened or closed to provide the right climate for a tea house.
Process
Credits
Architect:
Terrestrial Pursuits Corporation
Structural Engineer:
TBD