All-Wood Podiums in Mid-Rise Construction

All-wood podium construction offers a cost-effective, sustainable alternative to traditional concrete podiums in mid-rise buildings — yet many designers overlook it. This case study examines two California projects that successfully used all-wood podiums to reduce construction costs, shorten timelines, and improve structural performance. 

This publication is designed for: architects, structural engineers, contractors, developers 

This case study discusses: 

• Achieving reduced costs compared to concrete podiums  

• Decreasing building mass for better seismic performance 

• Simplifying the design process 

• Code compliance strategies  

• The value of early AEC team collaboration 

• Using BIM modeling to resolve field issues before construction begins 

Published by APA — The Engineered Wood Association.