Prefab Architecture & CLT Wood: Sustainable Lightweight Solutions

PREFAB ARCHITECTURE & CLT WOOD: A SUSTAINABLE, LIGHTWEIGHT SOLUTION

At AURUS Arquitectura, we harness the power of prefabricated architecture and Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) to deliver sustainable, efficient, and structurally sensitive solutions. Whether you’re renovating an existing structure or seeking rapid deployment, wood and CLT offer unique benefits for remodeling, extensions, and new constructions.

Prefabrication, Wood & CLT: Why It Matters

Prefabricated wood structures engineered with CLT panels combine precision, lightness, and sustainability. These Cross-Laminated Timber panels are made from multiple layers of laminated boards oriented at right angles—creating incredible structural rigidity, thermal and acoustic performance, and visual warmth.

In Spain and Europe, CLT is gaining traction for its fast assembly, reduced environmental footprint, and versatility in residential, office or retrofit projects.

CLT’s Lightweight Advantage in Refurbishment

One standout feature of CLT is its light weight—about 20% the weight of equivalent concrete structures. This makes CLT ideal for building additions or refurbishments over existing buildings, without overloading foundations or requiring major structural reinforcement.

A case in point: in Lavapiés, Madrid, an 11-day installation created three new CLT floors on top of a century-old building, adding 16 apartments while respecting the aging structure’s limits.

What We Can Offer with Prefab & CLT

Design & Prefabrication Expertise

We develop digitally engineered CLT modules—tailored for precision and minimizing waste—aligned with our aesthetics of clean lines, open light-filled spaces, and natural appeal.

Refurbishment with Minimal Structural Impact

When extending or retrofitting over existing urban buildings, CLT panels’ low self-weight and prefabricated nature allow for light, dry installations that reduce foundation impact and avoid heavy construction onsite.

Fast, Efficient Construction Timeline

With prefabricated CLT, on-site assembly can take weeks rather than months, reducing cost, disruption, and site waste—making it ideal for inner-city locations.

Thermal & Acoustic Comfort

CLT naturally delivers excellent insulation and humidity regulation, contributing to more comfortable interiors year‑round without thermal bridging—especially beneficial in Mediterranean climates.

Sustainability & Carbon Sequestration

As a renewable material that captures CO₂, CLT reduces embodied carbon compared to concrete/steel. Its prefabricated approach also decreases site disturbance and waste generation.

Real-World Examples in Spain

· Lavapiés refurbishment: CLT panels used to build three floors atop an existing structure in just 11 days, avoiding excessive load on foundations of a century-old building.

· Residential CLT in Girona: Six-story CLT complex in seismic zone assembled in six weeks, demonstrating excellent seismic performance and moisture control.

· b720’s Lavapiés building: Entirely CLT-constructed residential block in Madrid with negative carbon footprint, excellent insulation, BREEAM Excellent certification.

Limitations & Considerations

While CLT offers many advantages, it’s important to evaluate:

· Initial cost: CLT panels can cost slightly more than concrete or brick—but fast construction, prefabrication efficiency, and long-term performance often offset the difference.

· Exposed wood maintenance: Awareness of adhesive lifespan (often conservatively rated at 60 years) and moisture management is essential—though real CLT structures often last much longer with proper care.

Let's Think If a Project

Imagine a classic Madrid building where you want to add two levels:

· We design prefab CLT floors and roof modules, digitally cut for tight tolerances.

· Use lightweight CLT allows minimal additional structural load on old foundations.

· On‑site assembly in under a month, with dry-fix system and low disruption.

· Interiors remain thermally efficient with low U‑value panels and humidity‑regulating wood surfaces.

· Option to expose the timber structure inside as an aesthetic feature, harnessing biophilia and structural warmth.

· Full advisory on long‑term maintenance, coatings, and warranty lifespan.

Why Choose a Studio like AURUS for Prefab & CLT

· We combine high-end architectural design with advanced prefabricated timber engineering.

· Local experience in renovating Madrid buildings using lightweight CLT, respecting structural constraints.

· Strong focus on sustainability, energy efficiency, acoustic and thermal comfort, and speed of execution.

· Expertise in modular construction that aligns with both modern design trends and urban constraints.

At AURUS Arquitectura, we believe prefabricated CLT construction is the future for sustainable, lightweight, fast, and beautiful architecture. Ready to build smarter and greener? Contact us today.