The latest bracing breakthrough from Prolam, the PLX Column solves one of the most common design challenges in open plan builds: how to achieve bracing requirements without sacrificing space or layout.

Developed in collaboration with structural engineers, architects and builders, the PLX Column delivers up to 120 bracing units in a single hybrid glulam-steel member. That’s serious bracing power packed into a compact footprint – enabling wider openings, cleaner lines and more light-filled, liveable interiors.

Prolam Managing Director John Woodman says there’s nothing else like it on the market in terms of its strength, stability and simplicity. 

“Whether you’re wanting to maximise space for living in new homes, renovations or multi-residential builds, the PLX Column’s smart design gives you more room to move.”

Designed for today’s homes

The idea for the PLX Column was sparked by conversations with design and building professionals. At industry events, in workshops and on job sites, one challenge kept coming up: how to brace open plan layouts without compromising the very features clients value most – space, flow and light.

At the same time, homes are getting smaller. According to Stats NZ, the average floor area of new stand-alone homes dropped to 176 square metres in 2025 – the lowest since 1994 – and the average townhouses now average 107 square metres. 

“Designers needed a bracing solution that could meet structural demands without eating into usable space,” says John. “The PLX Column delivers exactly that, filling a critical gap in the market.”

“Specifically engineered to deliver high bracing capacity in minimal wall lengths, it’s ideal for open plan living and dining rooms, kitchens, wing walls and entryways. Anywhere you want fewer walls, more windows and wider openings.”

Tested, proven and engineered to perform

Designed and tested in Prolam’s R&D facility, ProLab, the PLX Column is the result of deep collaboration across design, engineering and manufacturing. It meets and exceeds New Zealand’s structural standards, tested in accordance with the BRANZ P21 methodology and independently verified by structural engineer Andy van Houtte.

Prolam’s in-house structural engineers, Zubin Kurami and Kit Sara, played a key role in developing the PLX Column, applying their expertise in structural timber design to take the idea and turn it into a commercial reality, backed by the skill and precision of Prolam’s dedicated manufacturing team.

Compatible with other NZS3604 structural timber elements, the PLX Column delivers bracing units to resist both wind and earthquake loads. It’s suitable for single-storey dwellings and the ground floor of multi-storey buildings, including townhouses and terrace homes.

As Andy Van Houtte says: "The PLX Column's combination of strength and simplicity opens up new possibilities in structural timber design. It gives designers more freedom where they've been constrained by traditional bracing options".

Build-ready, fast and easy to install

The PLX Column is supplied as a prefabricated, build-ready solution, including the hybrid column and a custom-designed foundation connection for fast, accurate installation.

With its pre-drilled foot plate and anchor rod drill guide, the PLX Column makes precise fixing simpler—especially for insulated concrete slabs where edge distance can be an issue. The column also connects directly to other timber framing elements, with standard top-fixing options.

“Ease of installation was a key priority, as it is in all of our products,” explains John. “We wanted a solution that delivers real value on-site—not just from a performance perspective, but also in terms of time and cost savings.”

Support for a sustainable build

Like the rest of the PLX range, the PLX Column supports better building outcomes. With its high timber-to-steel ratio and glulam structure made from sustainably grown New Zealand plantation timber, it offers a lower carbon footprint and strong thermal performance. 

Explore the possibilities

The PLX Column is the newest addition to Prolam’s innovative PLX bracing range – delivering strength, simplicity and sustainability in one smart, build-ready package.

Download the PLX Column Design Guide and Installation Guide for technical specifications, fixing details and compliance documentation.

Need extra support?

 Prolam’s structural engineers and glulam specialists are here to help at every stage of your project.