The SPLAM Timber Pavilion and 800 Fulton Market have both received a 2022 Award of Merit from the Structural Engineering Association of Illinois (SEAOI). The Excellence in Structural Engineering Awards Competition takes place each year to recognize creative achievement in structural engineering via innovative structural designs and individual contributions that advance the profession.

SPLAM [SPatial LAMinated timber] is a full-scale prototype of a single-story structural framing system used in mid-rise, fire-resistant construction. Reducing material use by 46 percent compared to a traditional cross-laminated timber panel, it uses shorter 2x4s that interlock to create an optimized dimensional layout that can be infinitely modified to suit the structural demands of a building’s form or functional needs.

Continuing SOM’s legacy of structurally expressive architecture, 800 Fulton Market is defined by its X-braced facade. Engineered with Chicago’s harsh winters in mind, the central node of each brace moves closer to the facade as the braces cool, contract, and further from the facade as the braces heat up and expand. Together with an offset cantilevered core made of glass, this unique structural system enables large, open floor plates and flexible, light-filled workspaces.