| Title |
A Composite matrix-Based Design Methodology for Timber Modular Architecture |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK.2026.42.10.199 |
| Keywords |
Composite matrix; Timber Hybrid; Modular; Performance-Based Design; Early Design Decision-Making |
| Abstract |
Timber modular construction requires the simultaneous consideration of structural safety, fire resistance, acoustic insulation, thermal
performance, fabrication constraints, and regulatory requirements during the early design stage. Conventional sequential workflows typically
determine building form before evaluating these interdependent performance requirements, often resulting in repeated redesign. This study
proposes a Composite matrix-based design methodology that redefines the composite assembly as the primary design unit and shifts
performance evaluation to the beginning of the design process. The proposed matrix organizes design decisions according to required
performance, member position, and building scale. It also incorporates conflict cells and a Performance Conflict Comparison Table to identify
and resolve performance trade-offs before form generation. Rather than directly calculating performance values, the matrix supports
decision-making using performance-certified composite assemblies from dataholz.eu together with Korean building regulations. Because the
available certification data are limited to REI 60 assemblies, the methodology is limited to four-story timber hybrid residential buildings. The
methodology was demonstrated through a 54-unit timber hybrid prefabricated housing project designed by the author. The case study
confirmed that composite selection precedes form generation, a single composite assembly can satisfy multiple performance requirements
simultaneously, code-related conflicts can be identified before geometric refinement, and fire-resistance requirements can be determined through
the combined consideration of building scale and member position. Additional benefits, including reduced repetitive performance checking and
the potential for extension to higher fire-resistance classes, are presented as expected advantages of the matrix structure but have not yet been
empirically validated. Because the methodology was both proposed and evaluated by the author, a third-party verification protocol is
recommended for independent validation. The methodology should therefore be regarded as a procedural design framework demonstrated
through a single prospective case study, providing evidence of procedural feasibility rather than empirical superiority over existing design
workflows. Future research should expand the composite assembly database, extend the matrix to higher fire-resistance classes of REI 120
and above, validate the methodology through multiple independently designed projects, and integrate the framework with building information
modeling. |