Analysing factors driving the supply and demand for wood housing from the perspective of general contractors, institutional investors and building cooperatives
This bachelor’s thesis analyses the key factors that influence the demand for wood housing in Switzerland, from the perspective of developers, institutional investors, and building cooperatives. The research aims to understand how these stakeholders, along with public administration and end users, affect and are affected by factors that drive supply and demand.The thesis employs a mixed-methods approach. A literature review of both academic and grey literature established a system map of the timber construction market. This map was then validated and amended through semi-structured interviews with a general contractor, an institutional investor, and a building cooperative. A qualitative analysis was conducted to identify the most prominent factors, and a quantitative factor analysis of the interview transcripts was performed to compare stakeholder priorities. The findings reveal that while construction cost and sustainability are well-documented factors, stakeholders consistently stressed the importance aesthetic appeal and institutional conditions, such as a lack of clear regulations and standardised processes. This suggests a disconnect between scientific literature and industry priorities. The thesis also highlights that different stakeholders weigh these factors differently, depending on their role within the timber construction industry. The most significant barriers, including challenges in collaboration and material properties, also represent the most promising areas for future development in the Swiss timber construction industry. This thesis suggests that timber will become an increasingly relevant building material as urbanisation and densification continue. However, key systemic and educational barriers must be overcome to realise the potential for timber construction in future. Understanding the factors influencing the adoption of timber construction from different viewpoints will allow for the creation of effective processes, policies and regulations to minimise the constraints placed upon the timber market.
By: Sydney Oester
Work: Bachelor thesis, 2025
Supervisor: Dr. Giacomo Vaccario (ETH Zurich)
