GAB Report event briefing

Early Mass Timber Design Decisions Seminar + Ascent Tour

  • DateSep 23, 2026 · 2:00 pm GMT-0500
  • FormatIn Person
  • LocationMilwaukee, WI

About the event

This regional in-person program combines a technical seminar with an exclusive tour of the 25-story Ascent tower in Milwaukee. The technical presentation examines early design choices that shape large-scale mass timber projects, including building code construction types, structural grid layouts, fire-resistance approaches, acoustics, and connection details. Participants then walk through the 284-foot timber structure with development team members to inspect real-world integration of MEP services and structural components. The event concludes with on-site networking, providing architects and engineers with practical guidance on constructability, cost, and code compliance.

What you’ll learn

  • Identify the International Building Code construction types that permit mass timber and evaluate how early decisions regarding construction type, fire-resistance ratings, structural grids, and member spans influence code compliance, project cost, and constructability.
  • Explain strategies for integrating structural systems, MEP services, acoustics, and connection detailing in mass timber buildings to satisfy performance, fire-resistance, and occupant comfort requirements while supporting future building flexibility.
  • Describe construction sequencing, installation practices, and multidisciplinary coordination techniques that contribute to the safe, efficient, and successful execution of mass timber projects.
  • Evaluate how the design and construction strategies implemented in Milwaukee's 25-story mass timber tower addressed structural, fire, architectural, and constructability challenges.

Attendance notes

Street parking and nearby parking garages are available, including Power Parking at 822 Van Buren and Power Parking at Cathedral Square 530 E Mason St.


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