Slide 1
Slide 2
First-United-Bank-Texas-Mass-Timber-Southern-Pine-1

First United Bank

Developer/Owner: Cawley Partners

Contractor: Ridgemont Commercial Construction

Architect: Gensler Architects

Engineer: DCI Engineers

SmartLam Customer: Bell Structural Solutions

 

The First Mass Timber Structure in the U.S. to Feature Southern Pine CLT

The First United Bank building in Fredericksburg, Texas, is a pioneering project that sets a new standard for sustainable design and innovation within commercial architecture. This 8,500-square-foot mass timber structure proudly incorporates Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels and Glulam beams and columns made from Southern Pine, a species native to Texas and the surrounding southern states.

Designed by Gensler, this project serves as a beacon of modern design and environmental stewardship, showcasing how regionally sourced materials can lead to both aesthetic excellence and significant sustainability achievements.

Project Overview & Design Philosophy

This single-story building, spanning 798 square meters, was conceived with a clear vision to merge functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics. The design intentionally incorporates exposed Southern Pine CLT panels and glulam beams in key areas, including the lobby, community room, office spaces, and exterior overhangs. By leaving these elements visible, the design effectively highlights the natural warmth and beauty of Southern Pine, creating an inviting, modern workspace that offers a harmonious blend of natural materials and contemporary design.

Sustainability & Innovation

A fundamental aspect of the First United Bank project is its commitment to sustainability, designed as a net-zero energy structure. This ambitious goal is achieved through the integration of highly efficient design principles and renewable energy solutions. SmartLam North America played a pivotal role as the timber supplier, delivering precision-engineered Southern Pine CLT panels for floors, roofs, and walls, along with Glulam beams and columns. This responsible sourcing of Southern Pine directly supported the project’s net-zero energy goals, combining exceptional durability with a visually stunning aesthetic, and setting a new benchmark for environmentally conscious commercial buildings.

A Pioneering Showcase for Southern Pine Mass Timber

The First United Bank building holds a significant distinction as the first U.S. mass timber structure to prominently feature Southern Pine CLT. This pioneering application not only demonstrates the exceptional potential of regionally sourced timber in large-scale construction but also highlights Southern Pine’s versatility for both structural and aesthetic applications. The exposed Southern Pine elements contribute to a modern and inviting atmosphere, providing a powerful example of how the inherent beauty of wood can be celebrated while achieving cutting-edge sustainable performance.

Project Highlights

  • First-of-Its-Kind Innovation: The first U.S. mass timber structure to feature Southern Pine CLT, showcasing the potential of regionally sourced materials and SmartLam’s supply expertise.
  • Net-Zero Energy Design: A highly sustainable building that offsets its energy consumption through efficient design and integrated renewable energy solutions.
  • Exposed Timber Aesthetic: Natural Southern Pine elements create a modern and inviting atmosphere, setting a benchmark for office spaces and demonstrating the material’s inherent beauty.
Back to Projects