Waugh Thistleton Architects</Architectural Firm> and Mithun</Architectural Firm> have collaborated on the design of Bevel, a proposed 12-storey mass timber office building in downtown Bellevue, Washington, for client Skanska. At approximately 18,580m² and 55 metres tall, the development is expected to become the tallest mass timber commercial office building in North America if approved.
Currently in the planning stage, the project has been designed to maximise the height allowances available under modern Type IVB construction codes, demonstrating the growing potential of mass timber for larger-scale commercial developments. The office floors and public spaces will feature fully exposed timber columns, beams and ceilings, complemented by biophilic design elements including extensive glazing, abundant natural daylight and strong connections to outdoor spaces.
The building will combine a mass timber superstructure with a steel core and lateral system to meet the demands of the region’s seismic conditions, while a concrete structure will accommodate below-ground parking. The scheme also aims to showcase the Pacific Northwest’s timber manufacturing sector and its contribution to lower-carbon construction.
Sustainability is a central focus of the design, with targets including LEED v4 Platinum, Fitwel 2-Star and Salmon-Safe certification. Planned features include stormwater capture and reuse systems, native landscaping, biodiversity enhancements, improved pedestrian links and fully electrified, energy-efficient building systems designed for long-term resilience and performance.
The development also incorporates significant public realm improvements, including wider pavements, enhanced streetscape features, new landscaping and infrastructure upgrades intended to strengthen connectivity within Bellevue’s downtown area.
“Mass timber is much more than just a building material,” said Stewart Germain, Director of Innovation & Sustainability for Skanska USA Commercial. “At Bevel, the timber will be a visible part of the daily tenant experience, creating a warmer, more natural environment that reflects the growing demand for wellness-focused spaces and biophilic design that enables organizations to seek and retain the best talent.”
Source: waughthistleton.com
