This paper describes the development of an iterative procedure for the design of timber columns. It is shown how the problem can be modeled and efficiently solved in a multi-phase approach in which objective function and technological coefficients are derived in the first phases and incorporated into the formulation and solution of a mathematical model in the final phase. The methodology presented herein eliminates the need for the repetitive, trial-and-error calculations presently applied to timber column design problems. Moreover, it enables the designer to simultaneously incorporate multiple material types and sizes as well as their associated implementation costs into the design, and it facilitates restrictions on the design associated with structural and/or aesthetic considerations. In whole, the methodology developed herein replaces an ad hoc procedure with a well-defined, systematic procedure that produces an optimal design subject to limited resources, implementation restrictions, and cost factors.
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