What's Happening?
Milwaukee has emerged as a leader in the development of timber towers, utilizing mass timber technologies to construct tall buildings. The city is home to the world's tallest timber tower, the 25-story Ascent MKE, which stands at 284 feet. This development marks a significant shift from traditional steel and concrete structures. Milwaukee is continuing this trend with the construction of the Neutral Edison, a 31-story timber tower set to be completed in 2027. This building will be the tallest timber tower in the United States and the second tallest globally. The architectural firm behind this project, Hartshorne Plunkard Architecture, is based in Chicago, highlighting a connection between the two cities in this innovative construction approach.
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Why It's Important?
The use of timber in large-scale construction is gaining traction due to its lower carbon footprint compared to steel and concrete. Timber buildings contribute less to global warming, as wood absorbs and sequesters carbon throughout its lifecycle. Milwaukee's adoption of timber towers reflects a growing awareness of sustainable building practices. This trend could influence other cities, including Chicago, to reconsider their construction materials and methods. Chicago, known for its architectural innovation, has yet to embrace timber towers, potentially missing out on the environmental benefits and architectural advancements associated with this technology.
What's Next?
As Milwaukee continues to develop timber towers, Chicago may face pressure to adopt similar sustainable building practices. The city's building code, updated in 2020, allows for larger timber structures, suggesting potential for future projects. Stakeholders in Chicago's architectural community may advocate for timber construction, citing environmental benefits and the city's historical role in architectural innovation. The success of Milwaukee's timber towers could serve as a catalyst for change in Chicago's building culture, encouraging a shift towards more sustainable construction methods.
Beyond the Headlines
The development of timber towers in Milwaukee highlights broader cultural and historical factors influencing construction practices. Chicago's conservative building culture, shaped by past fire events, may contribute to its hesitance in adopting timber technology. However, the city's early involvement in the sustainability movement and its architectural legacy suggest potential for embracing timber towers. This shift could redefine Chicago's skyline and reinforce its position as a leader in innovative and sustainable architecture.
