Integrated Design and Construction of Tall Buildings

Abstract

Contemporary tall buildings frequently incorporate distinctive architectural designs that require unique and innovative design of structural, mechanical, lighting, electrical, and other building systems. In addition, the massive scale of tall building systems creates critical interrelationships and dependencies among these systems. Construction of tall buildings is impacted by the building architecture and systems and may require special construction materials, equipment, techniques, or processes that necessitate close collaboration between the contractor and the design team. Moreover, issues such as efficiency and economy of operation and maintenance of tall buildings during their life-spans offer incentives for the design and construction team to think critically beyond the construction phase and incorporate features and materials that increase the return on the developer’s investment. Further, the increased sensitivity to the environment and our limited natural resources influence not only the design, but construction material and techniques used in the development of tall buildings. Thus, design and construction of tall buildings is a multidisciplinary challenge bringing together the architect, architectural engineering consultants including the structural engineer, mechanical engineer, and lighting engineer , and the contractor from the conception and planning of the project to completion of construction of the building. This collaboration requires general knowledge and understanding of the different disciplines by each professional involved in the process. This paper presents a number of strategies for the successful execution of tall buildings. Teamwork and integrated design and construction for comprehensive and efficient outcomes are particularly highlighted with emphasis on the role of the different parties involved in the planning through to the operation of tall buildings.