Our Journey
At WOW engineering, we believe that structural design must be a driver of positive change. As structural engineers committed to low-carbon, sustainable design, we are deeply aware of the profound responsibility we carry : every structural choice we make — in materials, design strategies, and construction methods — can either drastically reduce emissions or contribute to worsening the climate crisis.
Considering that the construction sector accounts for nearly 40% of global emissions — and that structural works alone represent around 70% of that footprint — structural engineers directly influence nearly 28% of total emissions. This awareness shapes our mission: to conceive smart, elegant, and resource-efficient structures that actively respond to the environmental and societal challenges of our time.
By placing sustainability and innovation at the core of our engineering practice, we support architects, developers, and public stakeholders in creating a more responsible, resilient, and inspiring built environment.
Our Team
With over a decade of experience, our team comprises highly dedicated professionals. We continuously embrace new challenges to support our clients in their projects. Working collaboratively, we approach projects of all sizes with creativity and dedication.
WOW engineering was born from the collaboration and shared passion for wood of three engineers – Alexandre Rossignon, Benoît Hargot, and Pierre-Antoine Cordy – each bringing complementary expertise and a wealth of experience with timber construction.
Driven by a common conviction in the potential of this material and the need for specialized engineering in the field, they partnered with Ney & Partners in 2013 to found Ney & Partners WOW, marking the beginning of a rich and collaborative journey.
While Alexandre Rossignon has since moved on to pursue new artistic ventures, his vision continues to resonate in our approach and legacy.
In 2025, Ney & Partners WOW became WOW engineering — a new name and shareholding structure that marks a natural evolution in our story, while preserving everything that defines us : the same team, the same expertise, and the same commitment to high-quality timber engineering and low carbon design.
Benoit Hargot
Pierre-Antoine Cordy
A specialized timber engineering office
WOW was established to leverage the numerous advantages of building with wood. As a bio-sourced and renewable material, wood’s variability in dimensions and strength necessitates expert handling to ensure reliable and durable designs.
At the start of our activities, we focused our expertise on execution missions for timber companies. This hands-on experience helped us gain recognition and build a strong technical knowledge. We believe that every project deserves meticulous attention to detail, and by knowing the reality on the ground, we have a better understanding of the challenges associated with assembling, machining and fitting of wood components.
We consider the broader environmental impact
By working closely with our clients as partners, we strive to find the best solutions for each project while considering the broader environmental impact. We aim to blend innovation with sustainability, making a lasting positive impact on the built environment.
With wood as the central pillar, we foster an holistic approach to structural design. We believe that bio-based materials have a role to play, along with a better use of traditional materials. We ensure that materials contribute to the circular economy at the end of their lifespan. Each of our projects embodies conscious design, optimizing material use and employing advanced techniques for deconstruction, reassembly and reuse.
We build with purpose
To guide our clients through every stage of their construction project, our team aims to minimize the carbon footprint while maximizing performance and architectural quality. Here’s how WOW approaches each new challenge:
Do not build
Before starting any new project, we evaluate if new construction is necessary. Sometimes, an existing structure can already meet the client needs without any major interventions.
Adaptation
When an existing building has untapped potential, we implement targeted interventions. This may include adding openings for light and space, or incorporating balconies to enhance functionality and comfort, extending the building’s life while respecting its integrity and history.
Transformation
We see the transformation of a building by extension or heightening as an opportunity to reinvent the space. Wood is a preferred material due to its lightness, which minimizes the load on existing foundations, allowing for more levels and increased project profitability.
Reconstruction & Reuse
When demolition is unavoidable, we aim to preserve what we can, and promote a circular economy for the removed materials, viewing each element of the existing building as a resource for the new construction.
Building on greenfield Land
Considered a last resort, building on new land is approached with acute environmental awareness. We prioritize renewable materials, mainly wood, for its carbon-storing capability and low embodied energy, designing new structures for maximum longevity and future flexibility.
