Engineers Developing First Fully Modular Timber Skyscrapers

Timber engineers are working to develop the world’s first fully modular timber skyscrapers, utilizing CLT floors and glulam beams and columns to create giant “skeleton” building systems, according to a feature by Wood Central (12-20-24). These systems are designed for assembly and eventual disassembly, enabling the construction of tall timber towers using “plug-and-play” techniques, with heights reaching up to 24 stories.

The project, known as MOHOHO, brought together a team from Graz University of Technology and corporate partners Kaufmann Bausysteme and KS Ingenieure to develop the world’s first fully patented building system. This innovative system can be used not only for new construction but also to expand, repurpose, and retrofit existing buildings.

Using a combination of modular and skeleton construction, the team prefabricated 3D timber modules designed to stack alongside or on top of each other, much like shipping containers at a port. Paired with a supporting mass timber skeleton, these modules enable walls and floors to slide into the framework, similar to drawers sliding into a cabinet.

“The prefabricated skeleton modules can be joined quickly and securely using the connection node developed as part of the project,” Christian Keuschnig, TU Graz’s project lead, explained. “This connection node also enables load redistribution, meaning the failure of individual columns does not lead to the collapse of the entire building. This first increases robustness and thus safety and second enables the targeted repair of individual modules. In addition, an elastomer bearing integrated into the node ensures a high level of sound insulation between the units.”