Perceptions, attitudes and interest of Swedish architects towards the use of wood frames in multi-storey buildings

Use of wood frames from sustainable forestry instead of non-wood frames in multi-storey buildings can reduce primary energy use and carbon dioxide emissions in construction. However, construction actors might have different perceptions towards wood frames than towards steel and concrete frames. Such perceptions may influence the actors’ decision to adopt wood frames. In this study we use a web-based questionnaire to assess Swedish architects’ perceptions, attitudes and interest towards steel, concrete and wood frames in multi-storey buildings (n = 412). Results indicate that the responding architects find concrete the most suitable frame material in buildings of 3–8 storeys, mainly because of the performance of concrete with regards to the engineering aspects (e.g. stability and fire safety) that were considered important in the choice of frame material. Although wood is considered the least suitable frame material, the overall attitude towards, and interest in, using wood is positive and related to the perceived environmental benefits of wood. This may derive from an increased discussion of and information about the environmental impact of buildings. Wood may be perceived as new and innovative while not considered as adequately proven as steel and concrete with regards to engineering aspects.

► Use of wood frames in multi-storey building construction can reduce primary energy use and carbon dioxide emissions. ► Perceptions of wood among construction actors may influence decisions to adopt wood frames. ► Survey results show that attitudes of Swedish architects favour use of multi-storey concrete frames rather than steel or wood. ► Concrete is perceived as more suitable due to engineering properties such as acoustics, fire safety and stability. ► Although wood frames are considered less suitable the interest is large due to the environmental performance of wood.