August 1, 2024
Have you heard of Mass Timber? Over the past several years, it has become one of the most talked-about structural systems in architectural and development circles — and for good reason. Across Canada, mass timber is being used to deliver efficient, modern buildings ranging from civic facilities and libraries to custom homes and lakeside cottages, such as this mass timber library in Scarborough, Ontario.
Photo credit: Stephane Groleau
Mass timber is both a long-established and a rapidly evolving construction approach. Glulam columns and beams have been used reliably for nearly a century. The most significant recent advancement arrived in North America around 2010, when cross-laminated timber (CLT) began to be produced at scale — enabling longer spans, greater dimensional stability, and highly efficient use of wood fibre.
Together, glulam and CLT form the structural backbone of modern mass timber construction, combining proven performance with clean architectural expression.
Since 2017, Cornerstone Timberframes has been actively advancing mass timber solutions for clients seeking longer spans, contemporary detailing, and smarter structural systems. We have supplied, fabricated, and installed mass timber structures for commercial, industrial, civic, and high-rise residential projects across Canada.
But our very first mass timber project didn’t fall into any of those categories.
It was a lakefront cottage.
The client and architect were not looking for vaulted ceilings or expressive trusses typically associated with traditional timber framing. Instead, they wanted to experience wood through a refined, minimalist, and modern architectural language.
With decades of experience in traditional timber joinery, Cornerstone Timberframes welcomed the opportunity to work with glulam beams and CLT panels. At our core, we are a structural wood design and solutions company, and mass timber provided an ideal system to meet both structural and aesthetic goals.
CLT roof panels comfortably span the 12-foot distance between beams, creating open, relaxed living spaces without unnecessary visual complexity — a defining advantage of mass timber residential construction.
CLT roof systems allow for generous overhangs while maintaining thin, efficient structural profiles.
Beyond long spans and impressive cantilevers, the precision of mass timber fabrication enables uncompromising window layouts and crisp architectural detailing.
In residential applications, mass timber offers exceptional flexibility. Structural wood can be fully expressed throughout the home or selectively concealed — a design decision guided by the client and architect.
And whether visible or concealed, mass timber wall systems provide continuous structural backing. There is no need to locate studs or plan around framing gaps — the structure is always present.
One of the most compelling observations we hear from homeowners is that mass timber spaces don’t just look good — they feel good. Research increasingly supports the idea that exposure to natural materials contributes to improved well-being, creating calmer and more comfortable living environments.
Natural wood helps create quiet, restorative spaces that support everyday living.
Whether designing a custom home, a lakeside cottage, or a larger residential development, the same structural principles apply. Our experience delivering Mass Timber Commercial Projects directly informs our residential work — ensuring accuracy, durability, and long-term value.
If you are considering how to integrate mass timber into your next home or cottage, speak with Cornerstone Timberframes — your trusted partner in Mass Timber Residential construction in Canada.
