The Sixth&Blanco project in Austin, Texas is a mixed-use development that will be constructed using mass timber. The development will occupy an entire city block and will be built around existing shops and homes on the site that date back to 1920.
The design for the project features a hybrid precast concrete and mass timber structure over below grade parking. The ground floor of the building will be dedicated to shops and restaurants, while the offices will be located on the floor above and a 57-room hotel on the third floor. The top two floors of the building will contain private residences, each featuring private pools and balconies.
Using mass timber and precast concrete together can create a beautiful and functional building. Mass timber, which is made from wood products such as cross-laminated timber or glulam, is a sustainable and renewable building material that offers several benefits. It is strong, lightweight, and has excellent thermal performance, making it an energy-efficient choice. Precast concrete, on the other hand, is a versatile and durable material that can be cast in a variety of shapes and sizes. The combination of these materials allows for a more efficient construction process, as the precast concrete can be manufactured offsite and then assembled onsite, reducing the overall construction time. The use of mass timber and precast concrete together can also contribute to the overall sustainability and efficiency of a building, making it a rational choice for many construction projects.
Images courtesy Herzog & de Meuron