At Woodrise 2025 the conversation goes beyond theory, it’s about action, innovation, and global collaboration. As we prepare to gather in Vancouver this September, we’re excited to unveil a program filled with in-depth technical workshops, immersive offsite tours, and world-class keynote speakers that will deepen your understanding of wood-based construction and its vital role in building a sustainable future.
Spotlight workshop: Dynamic performance of timber buildings
Timber buildings are lighter than their concrete or steel counterparts, an advantage in seismic zones, but this same trait can make them more vulnerable to wind-induced vibrations. This workshop explores the complex dynamics of timber structures and how they impact design, safety, and performance.
Attendees will hear from global experts on topics including:
- Post-tensioned mass timber rocking wall systems
- Low-damage seismic technologies in full-scale structures
- Wind-induced vibration modeling and analysis in tall timber buildings
- Seismic design using CLT infill walls in steel and concrete frames
The session also covers balloon-framed CLT shear walls, examining experimental designs, high-capacity hold-downs, and steel-timber composite solutions.
Don’t miss this opportunity to stay at the forefront of timber construction innovation.
Woodrise 2025 is proud to spotlight Urbanarium’s latest affordable housing design competition: Decoding Timber Towers. This exciting challenge invites teams to envision creative, low-carbon, high-rise housing solutions using mass timber.
Why enter?
- Compete for a share of $50,000 in cash prizes
- Gain international portfolio exposure
- Have your design showcased at Woodrise 2025 in Vancouver
General registration is now open until May 2, don’t miss your chance to be part of this global conversation on wood innovation and sustainable housing.
Urbanarium, a Vancouver-based charitable organization, uses creative programming to drive action on housing and climate challenges, through competitions, debates, and studios that inspire real-world change.
Keynote speakers spotlight
Michael Green, Founder of MGA | Michael Green Architecture
An internationally celebrated architect, speaker, and author, Michael Green has led some of the world’s most significant timber projects.
With over 50 international awards to his name, including the RAIC Firm of the Year and AIA Innovation Award, Michael champions the role of wood and bio-based design in shaping resilient, people-centered cities. His TED Talks “Why We Should Build Wooden Skyscrapers” and “The Natural Building Blocks of Sustainable Architecture” have inspired millions.
Michael Sørensen, Global Market Director, Henning Larsen
From Copenhagen to North America, Michael Sørensen has led globally recognized architectural initiatives that blend vision with community impact. Under his leadership, Henning Larsen has brought projects like the Downsview Framework Plan in Toronto to life, reimagining how cities can connect people and nature. His team’s work has earned accolades such as the Mies van der Rohe Prize and World Changing Ideas Award.
Click here to explore our confirmed speakers
Join us in Vancouver from September 22 to 25, 2025 to connect, explore, and innovate at the leading edge of wood-based construction.
