Mercer Mass Timber Celebrates Major Milestone in Roosevelt Library Construction

Construction Milestone of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library by Mercer Mass Timber



On May 20, 2025, Mercer Mass Timber (MMT) proudly announced the completion of the first phase of the construction of the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library. This ambitious project, recognized as the largest mass timber initiative in North Dakota, is poised to become a cultural cornerstone nestled in the scenic Badlands. Just a year after breaking ground, MMT has made significant strides that display innovative design and commitment to sustainability.

A Vision of Sustainable Architecture



The library’s architecture is centered around a museum building featuring a striking roof with sweeping curves and complex geometries inspired by the Badlands' natural landscape. The project's engineers worked meticulously to ensure that every joint and connection was not only precise but also designed to blend seamlessly with the wood aesthetic. Prominently, the roof is crafted using a combination of steel wrapped in wood, allowing for both structural integrity and a visually appealing design.

As the project moves forward into its next phase set to begin on June 1, 2025, Mercer Mass Timber will introduce canopies specifically intended to support photovoltaic panels. This incorporation of renewable energy sources significantly enhances the project's sustainability objectives. The aim is not only to provide a state-of-the-art library but also to pioneer mass timber applications in outdoor architectural elements.

Key Highlights of the Project



The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library stands out for its significant use of mass timber. MMT is contributing approximately 1,800 m³ of Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) and glue-laminated timber (glulam) for what will be a grand 93,000-square-foot structure. This library aims for ambitious goals; it is intended to attain both LEED Platinum and Living Building Challenge certifications, expecting to achieve net-zero energy, emissions, water usage, and waste management. Remarkably, the mass timber utilized in the project is expected to provide a carbon benefit equivalent to the energy consumption of 320 homes for a year, totaling 3031 metric tons of carbon dioxide reductions.

Ricardo Brites, Director of Engineering VDC at Mercer Mass Timber, articulated the significance of the library's construction, stating, "This project is a testament to what visionary design combined with advanced mass timber engineering can create.” He emphasized the project as a trailblazer for civic architecture, noting the intricate glulam connections and the stunning curved roof profile.

Future Prospects



Scheduled to open on July 4, 2026, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is anticipated to attract every living president, underscoring its cultural relevance and importance. The prevailing philosophy of using mass timber pays homage to Theodore Roosevelt's legacy of conservation, beautifully encapsulated within this nature-centric design approach. The use of mass timber not only reflects an innovative construction methodology but also aligns with a broader trend towards reducing carbon emissions by 25-40% compared to traditional materials.

Mercer Mass Timber is not just constructing a building; they are actively participating in the creation of sustainable communities that advocate for environmental consciousness through architectural innovation. As the firm continues to collaborate with builders, developers, and designers, the goal remains clear: to shape greener, more vibrant living spaces that future generations will cherish.

About Mercer Mass Timber



With a mission to redefine sustainable construction, Mercer Mass Timber focuses on using bio-based building materials to create low-carbon structures. Backed by Mercer International, MMT benefits from the expertise and resources of a leading global player in wood products. The company’s dedication to craftsmanship and sustainability is evident in every project they undertake.

For more details about Mercer Mass Timber and updates on their projects, visit their official website. Project images can be accessed through the associated gallery.

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