Abstract:
In early 2026, the Xylino modular timber residential complex in Almere, the Netherlands, was officially completed. The project consists of 103 housing units constructed from 436 prefabricated timber modules, all built using laminated veneer lumber (LVL), making it the Netherlands’ first large-scale modular LVL building project. By adopting a “sprint-based” installation method, the construction team installed 8 to 12 modules per day, with each residential block completed in approximately one month, demonstrating the tremendous potential of modular timber construction in terms of efficiency, scalability, and sustainability.

As demand for affordable housing continues to rise across Europe, traditional construction methods are increasingly challenged by extended project timelines, labor shortages, and stricter carbon emission regulations. Modular timber construction has emerged as a promising solution, attracting widespread attention for its speed, scalability, and significantly reduced environmental impact. The completion of the Xylino project in Almere at the beginning of 2026 has established a new benchmark for modular timber architecture in Europe.

Xylino is a five-story residential complex jointly developed by housing corporation De Alliantie and construction company Koopmans Bouwgroep. The project includes 103 residential units, comprising mid-market rental apartments, social housing units, and ground-floor residences, complemented by a landscaped courtyard and semi-underground parking facilities. As the Netherlands’ first large-scale modular timber housing development, Xylino demonstrates the feasibility of transitioning the construction industry toward greener and faster building methods.

The structure consists of 436 prefabricated timber modules manufactured by geWOONhout. Each module was delivered fully equipped with integrated technical systems, including electrical wiring, plumbing, and insulation materials. The building’s structural core is entirely made from laminated veneer lumber (LVL), a material selected for its high strength, dimensional precision, and lightweight properties, making it an ideal solution for modular construction.

Compared with other mass timber products such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), Kerto LVL offers up to 50% greater strength-to-weight ratio and material efficiency. Its millimeter-level dimensional accuracy is particularly critical for the rapid assembly requirements of modular buildings.

Xylino’s installation methodology is especially innovative. The construction team employed a “sprint-based” approach, installing between 8 and 12 modules daily, with the capacity to assemble up to four apartments simultaneously. Each residential block required only approximately one month to complete. This method not only accelerated the project schedule but also significantly reduced on-site labor requirements—an essential consideration amid the construction industry’s ongoing labor shortages.

In terms of digital integration, Xylino leverages advanced digital design technologies to ensure precision and scalability. Each module is assigned a digital twin containing detailed specifications, dimensions, and end-of-life dismantling instructions. This system enables more precise manufacturing, streamlined material procurement, and simplified recycling processes when the building reaches the end of its service life.

Additionally, each module is labeled with a QR code linked directly to its digital twin, further supporting efficient and accurate on-site construction processes.

Sustainability was a central priority throughout Xylino’s development. The modular design follows principles of disassembly and reusability, supporting circular economy objectives. All timber used is PEFC-certified, ensuring sustainable sourcing practices. The building also integrates solar panels, high-performance insulation systems, and rainwater harvesting technology, while low-carbon concrete is used only where absolutely necessary.

The combination of renewable energy systems, high thermal efficiency, and optimized material usage ensures that the project not only reduces construction-phase emissions but also supports sustainable operation throughout its full lifecycle.

Bas Broeke, Project Manager at Koopmans Bouwgroep, commented:“This system is ready to be replicated. The way it works here means we can apply it in many more locations.”

Aafke Van der Werf, Director of geWOONhout, added:“The best thing about Xylino is that from the outside, you cannot tell it was built using industrialized methods. To me, this proves that architectural freedom and modular construction can coexist perfectly.”

The successful delivery of Xylino highlights the growing maturity of modular timber construction in Europe and signals an important step forward in the development of scalable, low-carbon, and high-quality sustainable housing solutions.

Source:
Wood & Panel Europe / Global Construction Review

Article link:
https://zh-cn.woodandpanel.com/woodnews/article/xylino-sets-a-new-benchmark-for-modular-timber-construction-in-europe-a-leap-towards-sustainable-housing/

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