Wood is an ideal building material for sustainable architecture. It grows back and absorbs large quantities of CO2. But where does it actually come from in each case, and how will we make forestry and wood processing fit for the future? In what ways are conventional notions of professions and qualifications in architecture, engineering, and construction tested by using wood as building material?

French journalist Michèle Leloup together with architect François Leclercq — a pioneer of timber construction in France — have for a long time explored the ecological, economic, industrial, and technical challenges of using timber for major structures and urban architecture. This book summarises their findings using examples from the French forestry and construction industry. It also takes a look at Austria and the innovative work by Hermann Kaufmann, an internationally revered leader in the further development of traditional timber architecture. In addition, the book features five projects by Leclercq Associés.

Richly and attractively illustrated with new images by French architecture photographer Cyrille Weiner, The Wood That Makes Our Cities offers a concise survey of topical questions and findings in contemporary timber construction.

Michèle Leloup is a French journalist and writer. She is a member of the Académie d’Architecture and of the outreach committee of the Maison de l’architecture in Paris.

Cyrille Weiner is a celebrated French architecture photographer and editor. His images are a key element of the books Napoli Super Modern (2020) and Paris Haussmann: A Model’s Relevance (2017/2020), both published by Park Books.

Jad Hussein is a graphic designer and editor who runs his own studio Look Specific in Paris.

François Leclercq is an architect and urban designer and principal of Paris-based architecture and planning firm Leclercq Associés.

Paul Laigle is an architect and partner with Paris-based architecture and planning firm Leclercq Associés. He is an expert on building with natural resources and timber construction.