UBC Gateway

The UBC Gateway project stands as a landmark example of hybrid construction, combining structural steel with mass timber to deliver both performance and sustainability. KWH Constructors Ltd played a key role in erecting this innovative structure, demonstrating advanced coordination and execution across multiple structural systems.

At the core of the building is a structural steel frame that provides the primary load-bearing skeleton, enabling long spans, speed of erection, and high precision. Integrated within this frame are prefabricated CREE timber-concrete composite panels, which act as floor systems. These panels combine the strength of concrete with the environmental benefits and reduced weight of mass timber, contributing to faster installation and a lower carbon footprint.

A defining feature of the system is the use of DeltaBeams. These slim-floor steel beams allow the floor panels to sit within the depth of the beam, the placing of continuous re-bar positioning along with creating a flat soffit and reducing overall floor-to-floor height. This not only improves architectural flexibility but also optimizes material efficiency and building envelope performance.

KWH's scope involved the careful sequencing and installation of structural steel components alongside the placement of CREE panels and integration of DeltaBeams. The hybrid nature of the system required tight tolerances between all members.

The result is a highly efficient, modern building that showcases the potential of hybrid steel and mass timber construction—leveraging the strengths of each material to achieve sustainability, speed, and structural performance.