INTRODUCTION
In an era where architecture must balance aesthetic expression with structural efficiency, parametric design and computational tools have emerged as transformative forces. Our project explores a mixed-use commercial building, seamlessly integrating advanced structural systems to achieve a dynamic, functional, and visually compelling design. By utilizing Karamba3D for structural analysis and optimization, the project redefines conventional approaches to high-performance architecture.
The Project: A Core and Skin Structural System
The design is driven by a core and skin structural system. The central core acts as the vertical stabilizer, transferring gravity loads and providing lateral stability. Surrounding the core is the diagrid exoskeleton, a triangular grid structure that efficiently resists lateral forces like wind and seismic loads. This system reduces material usage while enhancing the building’s aesthetic appeal, creating an architectural language that is both functional and elegant.
Breaking Down the Layers
The building’s structure is composed of four primary layers, each playing a crucial role:
- Core: A vertical load-bearing element anchoring the structure and housing services like elevators and mechanical systems.
- Beams: Horizontal members that connect the core and the skin, transferring loads effectively.
- Internal Skin: A secondary structural layer that supports load distribution and improves insulation.
- Outer Skin: A diagrid exoskeleton that handles lateral loads while doubling as an innovative facade design.
KARAMBA MODEL
Karamba3D and Structural Optimization
To ensure structural stability and efficiency, Karamba3D was utilized for load analysis and optimization. The model evaluated the performance of the core, beams, internal grid, and outer shell under various forces, including dead loads, live loads, wind, and seismic forces.
Cross-Sectional Study
The cross-section of the building highlights the seamless interplay between its structural layers:
- The core remains the stabilizing anchor, transferring loads vertically.
- Beams connect the core and skin, ensuring horizontal load transfer.
- The internal skin supports secondary loads and enhances thermal performance.
- The outer skin, a diagrid exoskeleton, handles lateral forces while serving as an expressive architectural feature.
LOADS
Karamba3D simulations evaluated how the structure performs under varying loads. The model demonstrated the building’s ability to resist gravity, wind, and seismic forces, with a final maximum displacement of 4.01 units under gravity. This analysis ensured that the structure remains resilient under environmental stresses, balancing safety and performance.
OPTIMIZATION
Optimization 1: The cross-sections of key structural elements were adjusted to reduce maximum displacement from 6.75 units to 1.83 units, achieving significant structural stability.
Optimization 2: Focused on refining the outer skin, reducing material density, and increasing transparency while ensuring strength and stability.
Conclusion:
This project demonstrates the power of parametric design and computational tools in shaping future-ready architecture. The integration of a core and skin system, optimized using Karamba3D, results in a structure that is as efficient as it is dynamic. By balancing structural performance with aesthetic ambition, this mixed-use commercial building serves as a model for adaptable, high-performance architecture in an evolving world.
Tower Structural Optimization is a project of IAAC, Institute for Advanced Architecture of Catalonia developed in the Master in Advanced Computation for Architecture and Design – 2024-2025 by the student(s) and Erva Hofi, Sude Carli, Renuka Deshpande during the course MaCAD 24/25 Structural Optimization with Clemens Preisinger and Matthew Tam.
