1 July 2025
The Multihalle in Mannheim, Germany, stands as the world’s largest self-supporting timber gridshell, spanning over 60m and reaches heights of about 19m. Designed by renowned German architects in the mid-1970s, Multihalle was originally constructed as a temporary structure for the Federal Garden Show.
In 1998 it was designated a cultural monument due to its architectural importance, and now, nearly 50 years later from its original construction, restoration work is ongoing. After winning an international competition to complete the design review and retrofit – Fast + Epp developed a solution that would allow for the building to remain a permanent fixture. Fast + Epp was commissioned to continue on and help bring the timber gridshell back to its original splendor.
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WoodWorks Issue – 01 Jul 2025
Welcome
Greetings from your WoodWorks team. First up we have an interpretation of the current New Zealand building climate from Simplicity. Then we get insights into the Tauranga City Council building from some of the design and construction team. In our third story today it’s another one for the engineers. They posed the question: could the structural frame be 100% wood with no steel connection hardware or fasteners? Finally the beautiful Multihalle in Germany is being restored so this once temporary venue will become permanent for future generations to enjoy.
We are getting close to finalising the speaker programme for our annual WoodWorks Conference. If your team has an innovative case study of a mass timber project, we invite you to send a presentation proposal.
This Issue
1
The world’s largest self-supporting timber gridshell Multihalle in Mannheim, Germany is restored
2
Could the structural frame be 100% wood with no steel connection hardware or fasteners?
3
Inside The New Office Building Tauranga City Council
4
Construction woes: Here’s why it’s hurting out there …
1 July 2025
The world’s largest self-supporting timber gridshell Multihalle in Mannheim, Germany is restored
The Multihalle in Mannheim, Germany, stands as the world’s largest self-supporting timber gridshell, spanning over 60m and reaches heights of about 19m. Designed by renowned German architects in the mid-1970s,...
1 July 2025
Could the structural frame be 100% wood with no steel connection hardware or fasteners?
While the growth of mass timber is facilitated by a hybrid approach to using each of the key construction materials to suit their best properties, there is still a place...
1 July 2025
Inside The New Office Building Tauranga City Council
Built by LT McGuinness, it has a 6 Green Star Design rating and features rainwater harvesting, electric vehicle charging and facilities that encourage active commuting. LT McGuinness project director Craig...
1 July 2025
Construction woes: Here’s why it’s hurting out there …
There’s a winter muddle in housing. BUT it’s not all bad news, with interest rate trends a good sign for long term growth. And because of KiwiSaver funding, it is...