Sail Newport: Early Adoption of Dovetail Hangers in Mass Timber
Executing the main building at Sail Newport, we employed pioneering methods in mass timber construction, utilizing glulam beams integrated with dovetail metal hangers. This innovative joinery allowed us to optimize both the structural performance and architectural aesthetics of the building.
The staircase was custom-engineered to meet specific load requirements while maximizing space efficiency. For lateral support, we incorporated “spars”—round braces fabricated from actual boat masts, presenting both a design challenge and a unique material incorporation.
Sustainability & durability
Given the client’s stringent sustainability objectives, we opted for Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) to enhance the building envelope’s thermal performance. The exterior cladding consisted of Denali Gold, a newly developed product at the time that satisfied the durability criteria of a coastal structure.
This project exemplifies rigorous technical execution, meeting industry standards for energy efficiency, structural integrity, and material innovation. The outcome is a structurally sound, energy-efficient facility that demonstrates the practical applications and advantages of early mass timber construction methodologies.
did you know?
What is mass timber?
Mass timber refers to a category of engineered wood products that are revolutionizing the construction industry. It involves the use of large, solid wood panels or beams that are made by laminating smaller pieces of lumber together.
Common types of mass timber include Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), Glue-Laminated Timber (Glulam), and Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL). These innovative materials offer exceptional strength, durability, and fire resistance. Mass timber components are precision-engineered and prefabricated off-site, resulting in faster construction times and reduced waste.
With its sustainable attributes and aesthetic appeal, mass timber has emerged as a popular alternative to conventional construction materials like concrete and steel, enabling the creation of environmentally friendly and visually striking structures.
