Cushions Office Norwich
This project demonstrates how glulam can be integrated into a commercial building to balance structural performance, efficiency, and material expression.
Cushion Office Norwich
Designed by Engineered Timber Structures, the building combines a simple timber frame with a glulam portal structure to suit different functional areas. Offices and staff spaces are formed using timber construction with flat ceilings, while the retail area is defined by an open-plan glulam portal frame with raked ceilings.
This approach allows structure to be expressed where it adds value, while maintaining practicality and efficiency across the rest of the building.
The building also incorporates high levels of insulation and a roof-mounted PV array, contributing to an A+ EPC rating and supporting long-term operational performance.
Why It Matters
Projects like this show how glulam can be used selectively rather than universally, allowing each part of a building to respond to its specific requirements.
It demonstrates:
How glulam can create open, flexible spaces without intermediate supports
The benefit of exposing structure where it contributes to the architectural quality
How timber and glulam can be combined within a single, coherent design
The role of structural materials within wider energy and sustainability strategies
By considering glulam early, it becomes part of the design solution rather than an alternative introduced later.
Why It Matters
Projects like this show how glulam can be used selectively rather than universally, allowing each part of a building to respond to its specific requirements.
It demonstrates:
How glulam can create open, flexible spaces without intermediate supports
The benefit of exposing structure where it contributes to the architectural quality
How timber and glulam can be combined within a single, coherent design
The role of structural materials within wider energy and sustainability strategies
By considering glulam early, it becomes part of the design solution rather than an alternative introduced later.
Our Perspective
While this is not a project supplied by AJ Laminated Beams, it reflects the type of practical, well-considered application we support.
Our role is to help ensure glulam is understood, specified, and supplied correctly, whether as part of a simple structural solution or a more expressive architectural design.
By providing clear information, accurate processing, and reliable supply, we support the use of glulam in projects where both performance and design intent matter.