The Cambridge Recreation Complex & Library is a transformative 112,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose community facility designed to bring recreation, learning, wellness, and public gathering spaces together under one roof. Located on a 32.5-acre site, the project will serve a rapidly growing community while providing a central destination for recreation, education, and community connection.
The project represents one of the most significant new civic infrastructure investments in the region, and will feature:
- A 10-lane competition pool
- Warm-water leisure and therapy pool
- 3 FIBA-certified gymnasiums
- Fitness and walking track facilities
- Community programming spaces
- And a new 12,600 sq. ft. Cambridge Public Library branch.
Structural Efficiency Through Mass Timber
Mass timber plays a central role in the facility’s design, supporting the large spans and open spaces required for the aquatic centre, gymnasiums, library, and community gathering areas. By incorporating CLT and Glulam into the structural system, the project benefits from the speed, precision, and quality advantages of prefabricated construction while creating warm, welcoming public spaces.
Manufactured offsite and delivered ready for installation, the mass timber components help accelerate construction, improve coordination, and reduce disruption on site. The exposed wood elements also contribute to the building’s architectural expression, reinforcing the project’s focus on occupant well-being, community connection, and sustainable design.
Element5’s Scope
Element5 was engaged to provide DfMA modelling, cost consulting, pre-engineering review, fabrication, supply, and delivery of the project’s mass timber package. The scope includes cross-laminated timber (CLT) floor, roof, and wall panels along with Glulam structural elements that contribute to both the building’s performance and architectural character.
Through early collaboration with the project team, we helped optimize the mass timber design to support efficient fabrication, streamlined installation, and cost certainty throughout the project lifecycle.
Designed for Sustainability and Community Impact
The project is targeting LEED Gold certification, with aspirations for Net-Zero Carbon performance through the use of low-carbon materials, climate-resilient design strategies, and high-efficiency building systems.
Mass timber supports these goals by reducing embodied carbon while providing a renewable structural solution for this large-scale civic facility.
Currently under construction and scheduled to open in late 2026.
