Toward a morphological typology of high-rise timber buildings: a comparative analysis of 79 global cases

High-rise timber buildings are gaining global prominence as sustainable alternatives to conventional high-rise construction. While prior research has examined aspects such as spatial efficiency, core configurations, and structural systems individually, an integrated understanding of recurring design patterns remains lacking. Addressing this gap, this study develops a morphological typology of tall timber architecture based on a comparative analysis of 79 international cases. The objective is to identify dominant combinations of architectural form, core layout, structural system and material, and functional typology. The novelty of this research lies in its design-oriented analytical framework, which synthesizes multiple parameters into a cohesive typological classification. Cases were coded according to six variables and analyzed through cross-tabulation to detect prevalent patterns and co-occurrences. Key findings reveal that: (1) Prismatic residential towers with central cores and shear wall systems constitute the most frequent typology, offering layout efficiency and construction regularity; (2) Office towers with non-central cores typically employ hybrid timber-concrete frames to support open-plan flexibility and regulatory compliance; and (3) Mixed-use towers with freeform or tapered forms rely on hybrid timber-concrete-steel frames to accommodate programmatic and structural complexity. The resulting typological matrix offers stakeholders a practical reference for early-stage design decisions, policy alignment, and risk assessment. For architects, engineers, and urban developers, it provides a structured basis for replicating successful design models. For regulators and sustainability advocates, it establishes a framework to standardize, benchmark, and advance the adoption of timber in high-rise construction.