Delivering a Critical-Path Building with Mass Timber: When Early Design Decisions Shape Site Reality

This session presents a real-world case study from a confidential client project delivered between February and April 2026: an 85,000 SF critical-path building within a large data center campus. Executed under a Progressive Design-Build (PDB) delivery model, the project reflects an emerging asset class where speed, procurement certainty, and sequencing discipline are essential.

The project team engaged early in a design-assist process to evaluate mass timber systems not only for structural performance, but also for manufacturability, procurement strategy, and on-site assembly. Early design decisions were intentionally linked to downstream sequencing and logistics planning, shaping both fabrication and construction strategies.

A central focus of the session is how design-stage assumptions translated - or failed to translate - into execution. Initial sequencing strategies required adjustment as project constraints evolved, creating schedule pressure and necessitating rapid re-planning. The panel will discuss what did not work, how risks materialized, and how the team responded in real time.

Digital tools, including CADWORK and CMBuilder, were used to model panelization, simulate sequencing, and visually plan assembly, enabling faster decision-making and recovery.

Despite mid-process challenges, the structure was assembled in record time. Attendees will gain actionable insights into PDB collaboration, digital sequencing, and lessons learned - an example of Innovation in Action.