The Art of Engineering Super Tall Buildings: An Integrated Approach

Tall building construction is booming world-wide despite a temporary decline after the attacks on the World Trade Center towers on September 11, 2001. And the design and construction of these projects is becoming more and more challenging. Today’s super tall buildings often encompass distinctive architectural designs which in turn lead to complicated structural, mechanical and other systems designs. They also frequently require application of innovative construction materials, techniques and processes. Design and construction of super tall buildings can only be accomplished through integrated and collaborative work. It requires active participation of all major partners involved from the conception and planning of the project to completion of construction and on into the operation of the building. Team members must recognize that their particular share of the work can not be accomplished in a vacuum and independent of what others do. Clearly, decisions made by one team member will affect that of others. It is, therefore, essential that each player understands the roles, needs, expectations and limitations of others. This paper will discuss the role of the different parties involved in the planning to operation of large building projects including the developer; architect; structural engineer; mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineer; general contractor; building managers and the like. Team work and integrated design and construction for comprehensive and efficient design will be particularly highlighted and a number of case studies of major international projects will be offered in the oral presentation

Keywords:

Tall Buildings , Integration , Design , Engineering , Architecture , Construction