619 Ponce

Developer/Owner: Jamestown; Troy Harris

General Contractor: J.E. Dunn Construction Company

Architect: Handel Architects, LLP

Engineer: Aspect Structural Engineers ; Desimone Consulting Engineers

Installer: Seagate Mass Timber Inc

SmartLam Customer: StructureCraft Builders USA Inc.

A Milestone in Mass Timber and Sustainable Development

Blending locally sourced wood with innovative design, 619 Ponce stands as Georgia’s first commercial building project to utilize mass timber made from Southern Pine grown within the state. This pioneering development sets a new precedent for sustainable architecture in the region.

Designed with a profound focus on sustainability and occupant wellness, the project is targeting net-zero operational carbon. It simultaneously supports the local economy by responsibly sourcing materials, striving to acquire them within a 100-mile radius whenever possible, underscoring its commitment to regional impact and environmental responsibility.

Project Overview & Design Philosophy

619 Ponce features a groundbreaking structural system that showcases sustainability and regional material sourcing. The building’s framework consists of Southern Pine Glue-Laminated Timber (Glulam) columns, girders, and purlin beams, providing not only exceptional strength and durability but also a warm, inviting aesthetic. Complementing this, Southern Pine Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels are utilized for both floors and the roof, enhancing the building’s overall sustainability profile and offering significant design flexibility. A notable innovation includes gapped CLT panels specifically designed to seamlessly incorporate mechanical systems, ensuring that essential building infrastructure is integrated without compromising the architectural intent or the clean lines of the exposed timber.

Sustainability & Innovation

Sustainability is at the very heart of 619 Ponce, with the project explicitly targeting net-zero operational carbon, setting a compelling precedent for future sustainable office developments. SmartLam North America played a crucial role as the mass timber supplier, providing locally sourced Southern Pine Glulam and CLT. This strategic choice supports Georgia’s forestry industry and significantly reduces transportation emissions, contributing to a lower carbon footprint for the entire building. The use of these sustainable building materials ensures superior performance while aligning with the project’s ambitious goals for LEED Core & Shell and Fitwel certifications, demonstrating a strong commitment to both environmental health and occupant well-being.

Wellness-Focused Design & Community Integration

619 Ponce is thoughtfully designed with a strong emphasis on biophilic principles, aiming to significantly improve occupant well-being through a deep connection to nature. This is achieved through the prominent use of natural wood columns and ceilings, which enhance warmth and provide a visual link to the environment. Floor-to-ceiling windows maximize natural light penetration and allow for fresh air ventilation through operable panels. The building further extends its connection to the outdoors with multiple exterior spaces, including three large balconies per floor and an art-inspired open-air courtyard, fostering a sense of community and providing ample opportunities for respite and interaction. Integrated lower-level parking connected to office spaces also ensures convenient accessibility.

Project Highlights

• Regional Pioneer: The first commercial building project in Georgia to utilize mass timber made from Southern Pine grown within the state, showcasing regional sourcing.
• Net-Zero Carbon Target: Designed to achieve net-zero operational carbon, setting a precedent for highly sustainable office development.
• Biophilic Design: Features natural wood, floor-to-ceiling windows, and multiple outdoor spaces, enhancing occupant wellness and connectivity to nature.
• Integrated Systems: Incorporates innovative gapped CLT panels to seamlessly integrate mechanical systems without compromising aesthetic or structural integrity.
• Certifications Targeted: Actively pursuing LEED Core & Shell and Fitwel certifications, demonstrating a comprehensive commitment to health and sustainability.