Tallest US Mass Timber Student Housing Project Tops Out in Columbus, OH

DLR Group, a global integrated design firm, announced that INTRO Columbus—a 186-unit, 13-story mass timber student housing development near The Ohio State University—topped out on September 8, about a year after breaking ground. The project is expected to open by summer 2027.

The mass timber superstructure topped out roughly 10 weeks ahead of its original November target, which the project team attributed to prefabrication and field coordination. Pre-cut CLT panels were installed at an average rate of 44 panels per day.

With timber placement continuing above, exterior wall panels and windows are being installed on lower floors, while interior framing, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing rough-in, and concrete masonry work are also underway.

DLR Group said the completed building is expected to save 1,128 metric tons of carbon compared with an equivalent concrete and steel structure. Exposed CLT panels and glulam beams and columns will remain visible throughout corridors, study lounges, and residential units.

DLR Group is providing planning, architecture, and interior design services. Other project partners include Elford Construction, Forefront Structural Engineers, SmartLam North America, and Coastal Ridge.