In winter 2021, Boston is expecting Model-C, its first ground-up full Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) Passive House demonstration project. Designed and developed by Generate, an architectural tech company, and Placetailor, a leading sustainable housing developer, Model-C replaces the conventional concrete and steel construction materials with the CLT "cellular structure."

The new development will consist of 14 residential units and an "affordable" co-working space for the surrounding community on the ground level. Moreover, the five-story mixed use building will use a prefabricated kit-of-parts for its construction. A CLT rooftop canopy sits at the peak of the structure, allowing for the implementation of photovoltaics. 

The construction speed achieved through the reduction of interior framing and the use of modular and prefabrication methods has enabled the construction timeline to significantly diminish. Construction is due to begin later this summer and building is projected to be completed in winter of next year.

While Generate has partnered with Placetailor to complete the architectural design scope, Placetailor will act as the developer and general contractor with BuroHappold Engineering joining to contribute its CLT construction expertise.