Award

June 2025

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J U N E 2 0 2 5 | 65 2150 Keith Drive (The Hive) P H OTO G R A P H Y BY SA L I N A K A SSA M /CO U RT E S Y D I A LO G Ventana joined the project early during pre-construction to help solve the puzzle of assembling such an innovative and tall timber struc- ture on a constrained urban site. "We prefabricated as much as we could to streamline installation and protect the wood," says Williamson. The first mass timber element – a dra- matic, three-storey-tall CLT shear wall – was installed in March 2024, marking a major milestone. By December 2024, the last timber installation was in place. "The three-storey shear walls were several pieces of CLT wood pan- els stitched together and prefabricated offsite," explains Williamson, adding that this helped to protect the mass timber from the elements as much as possible and speed up timelines. "We accelerated the mass timber and steel building envelope installation by rely- ing heavily on BIM modelling." Inside, exposed timber elements and flat CLT floorplates create flex- ible, daylight-filled office spaces that rival concrete buildings in adaptabil- ity. With wellness areas, collaborative meeting zones, and a rooftop deck, the building is designed to support both productivity and wellbeing. Occupants will work in a space that feels alive – literally shaped by the forces it was engineered to withstand. In line with the project's sustain- ability ethos, the building is entirely gas-free. "The mechanical systems are all-electric," says Williamson. "It aligns with our low-carbon goals and contrib- utes to a healthy indoor environment." "Right now, what stands out most to me is how great the wood looks," says Williamson. "It's visually striking and true to the original design intent." It's fair to say, The Hive is helping change the conversation around tall – timber buildings, sustainability, and seismic resilience in North America. A Brenta Construction.indd 1 Brenta Construction.indd 1 2025-05-16 2:25 PM 2025-05-16 2:25 PM

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