Wooden Structural Bracing / Andreas Crosses in Cancret's Hemp Concrete
In May 2026, construction began in Widnau, SG, on the second phase of Openly Valley Widnau—in the immediate vicinity of the already completed Phase 1. As with the first construction phase, this project will also result in an energy-plus building with 10 apartments. But “same principle” does not mean “same construction site”: Phase 2 involves a different building geometry and thus presents new technical challenges that our team had to solve together with our network partners.
The diagonal bracing in the wall element: The St. Andrew's cross absorbs horizontal forces and adapts the element to the new building geometry.
Different geometry, different bracing: the St. Andrew's Cross
Unlike Phase 1, the second construction phase features a different building geometry. For our partners Schöb AG, Cancret, and CDS Bauingenieure, this meant that the wood-frame wall elements could not be used as-is but had to be adapted to the new structural design. The solution lies in bracing the elements with a St. Andrew’s cross—a diagonal bracing system that structurally resembles traditional half-timbered buildings, but is implemented here using modern, industrially prefabricated wood components.
For Openly, this approach demonstrates what sets our building system apart: Cancret’s construction systems are flexible and can be adapted to different project requirements, conditions, and building geometries—without sacrificing the benefits of prefabrication.
The Floor Slab: Concrete, Yes—But With a Clear Conscience
Pouring the floor slab: The mix, which uses low-CO₂ cement (Holcim Eco Planet), was tested specifically for this application by network partner Sigmund Sieber.
Prefabrication Live: A Look Inside the Factory Floor at the Openly x Cancret Industry Days
Prefabrication of a wall panel with integrated window openings and utility channels.
While the floor slab is being poured at the construction site in Widnau, the wood-frame wall panels for the next construction phases are rolling off the production line in the manufacturing hall. Each panel is individually configured for its specific location in the building—including window and door openings, utility routing, and the new bracing.
We’ll keep you updated and look forward to showing you our systems and solutions for the Valley Widnau Phases 1 and 2 in person at our Industry Days on June 30 and July 2, 2026.
Openly x Cancret Industry Days on June 30 and July 2—reserve your spot. Space is limited — please email us to inquire about remaining spots. We look forward to seeing you there!