The Aplin Center mass timber project also features glue-laminated columns and beams, as well as cross laminated timber floor and roof panels. All timber used is sourced from Texas sawmills. The project will require more than 3.5 million board feet of timber. The project, designed by DLR Group and Pickard Chilton, is the largest mass timber project on a university campus in Texas.
Hensley added that health, wellness and a connection to nature were woven into the project.
"We really wanted to create a lot of outdoor spaces," he said. "We have a series of carvings that step up the building and create a series of terraces on all sides of the building that then provide opportunities for tenants to go outside and enjoy the fresh air. The other part that was really important was maximizing views: the Rockies views, to downtown views, to just the general extent beyond the site."
Buc-ee’s founder Arch “Beaver” Aplin III gifted $60 million toward an immersive learning lab and campus gateway that is expected to be complete in 2028. The project, designed by DLR Group and Pickard Chilton, is the largest mass timber project on a university campus in Texas.
Regents approved the Aplin Center at Texas A&M — a three-story, 211,724-sq-ft hub for experiential learning in hospitality, retail, and food sciences, serving as Aggieland’s new front door for students and visitors.
Rentals by the jeweler Hestermann and fashion/lifestyle concept store label Kitchen for a total of 570 m2, “Le Coeur” is already 80% pre-rented and underlines its contribution to a lively use concept of western guests.
"This year's winners exemplify the versatility and impact of modern wood construction," shared Cover. "In addition to being high-performing structures, they underscore the power of design to connect people, jobs, and communities."