Hybrid Timber-Based and Conventional Building Systems: A Systematic Review

Timber and other bio-based materials are increasingly discussed as ways to reduce the environmental impact of buildings, but their integration into larger building systems involves different material roles rather than simple substitution. This review examines how timber-based and other bio-based components are combined with reinforced concrete, steel and masonry in hybrid building systems. This systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines using Scopus and Web of Science. The final synthesis included 141 studies. Four main hybrid building configurations were identified: steel structures incorporating timber components; load-bearing timber structures with reinforced concrete cores or shear walls; timber or other bio-based building envelopes combined with conventional frames; and reinforced concrete structures incorporating timber components. The comparison shows how material functions shape the benefits, limitations and design priorities of each configuration. Structural hybrid systems offer opportunities to improve lateral response, reduce structural mass and lower embodied carbon. Their design also requires consideration of connection behaviour, stability and deformation compatibility. For bio-based building envelopes, the focus shifts to thermal performance, moisture behaviour and the environmental impact of the complete wall assembly. Engineered timber dominates load-bearing roles, whereas other bio-based materials mainly serve insulation and envelope functions. Together, these findings provide literature-based guidance for comparing hybrid solutions during early design.