The article presents an analysis of the possibilities of shaping long - span structures using the expressive force of glued laminated timber related to its natural origin. Changes that arose in the 20th century and at the beginning of the 21st century under the influence of new technological possibilities in the field of woodworking, as well as radical changes in the doctrine of environmental protection, also changed the position of timber as an innovative construction material. Recent developments are considered groundbreaking. Timber is used both in large span structures as well as for the construction of multi-storey buildings, which opens the door for shaping new architectural forms. The principles of girder modelling and features related to timber symbolism were presented.