Local Beech Wood: A Climate-Resilient Building Solution for Sustainable Architecture

Abstract Timber construction plays a vital role in reducing carbon emissions in the construction industry. However, climate change is reducing softwood stocks in central Europe. In the future, it will be essential for the construction industry to rely on more resilient hardwood species. Thus, our research explores a low-tech building system using regional beech wood, processed from tree to finished building by local small businesses. This approach reduces transport emissions and strengthens regional value chains. In a model project in Ettlingen, Germany, we collaborate with local forestry, sawmills, and carpenters to develop a viable construction method for multi-storey housing. By using non-laminated timber, we avoid costly certification processes and improve circularity. Key components and junctions have been tested at full scale (1:1) to ensure practical feasibility. The building system, released as open-source, aims to establish beech wood as a sustainable alternative in construction. Additionally, a Life Cycle Assessment was carried out to compare the environmental impact of beech-based construction with conventional materials. The results show that building with local beech timber has a lower environmental impact than softwood construction, confirming its potential as a sustainable building material.