Featuring:

• Dr. Solomon Tesfamariam – Tall Timber Buildings: Past, Present and Future

• Dr. Hossein Daneshvar – Advancing Timber Engineering: Research and Innovation at the University of Alberta

Abstract

Rapid urbanization and environmental challenges are driving the need for sustainable building systems. With advances in cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam technologies, timber is emerging as a viable solution for mid- and high-rise construction. However, current design provisions in the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) require further adaptation to address the unique demands of tall timber and hybrid systems.

This Nasseri School Seminar brings together two leading researchers to share insights on tall timber construction and innovations in engineered wood:

• Presentation 1: Tall Timber Buildings – Past, Present and Future
  Dr. Solomon Tesfamariam will highlight the state-of-the-art in timber-steel and timber-concrete hybrid systems, seismic design challenges, and new methodologies for multi-hazard performance, with a focus on earthquake, wind, and fire considerations. Case studies from Vancouver seismicity aligned with NBCC 2015 will also be discussed.

• Presentation 2: Advancing Timber Engineering at the University of Alberta
  Dr. Hossein Daneshvar will present current research directions in timber engineering at the University of Alberta, including recent developments in hybrid timber systems, timber-concrete floor innovations, and structural performance studies that inform building code development in Canada and internationally.

About the Speakers

Dr. Solomon Tesfamariam, P.Eng. (British Columbia)
Professor and University Research Chair
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Waterloo

Dr. Solomon Tesfamariam is Professor and University Research Chair at the University of Waterloo. Prior to Waterloo, he was a Professor and Principal’s Research Chair in the Resilient and Sustainable Built Environment at UBC Okanagan. Over his 15 years at UBC, he has led pioneering research in tall timber and hybrid building systems. His work focuses on multi-hazard (earthquake, wind, fire) interactions in large-scale CLT and hybrid structures. Supported by government and industry partners, his research outcomes have influenced design practices and building codes in Canada and abroad.

Dr. Hossein Daneshvar, PhD, P.Eng.
Assistant Professor
Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta

Dr. Hossein Daneshvar’s research focuses on advanced timber and hybrid structures, sustainable construction materials, and innovative design methodologies for high-performance buildings. His work integrates experimental and computational approaches to enhance structural resilience and sustainability in timber construction.

Event Details

📅 Tuesday, November 18, 2025
🕒 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
📍 ETLC Solarium, Donadeo Innovation Centre for Engineering
9211 116 St NW, Edmonton, AB

Seminar Agenda

3:00 – 3:10 pm — Welcome and Opening Remarks
3:10 – 4:10 pm — Presentation by Dr. Solomon Tesfamariam, “Tall Timber Buildings: Past, Present and Future”
4:10 – 4:25 pm — Q&A with Dr. Tesfamariam
4:25 – 4:55 pm — Presentation by Dr. Hossein Daneshvar, “Advancing Timber Engineering at the University of Alberta”
4:55 – 5:00 pm — Closing Remarks
5:00 pm onwards — Coffee & Networking