Dynamic interrelationship between technology and architecture in tall buildings

Abstract

The interrelationship between the technology and architecture of tall buildings is investigated from the emergence of tall buildings in the late 19th century to the present. Through the historical research, a filtering concept is developed - original technology and remedial technology - through which one can clearly understand the interrelationship between the technological evolution and architectural esthetic and further stylistic transition of tall buildings. More desirable visions for the future can be constructed based on this concept. Contemporary design practice of tall buildings is reviewed, and design guidelines are provided for new design trends. Investigated in depth are the behavioral characteristics and design methodology for diagrid structures, which emerge as a new direction in the design of tall buildings with their powerful structural rationale and symbolic architectural expression. Moreover, new technologies for tall building structures and facades are developed for performance enhancement through design integration, and their architectural potentials are explored. Special emphasis is placed on the research on the structural dynamic motion control using double skin facades / distributed tuned mass dampers. Design integration among architecture-related disciplines is emphasized throughout the research process as a means to more effectively overcome or at least minimize contemporary technological limitations and to create architecture of higher quality.

(cont.) While each study makes its own contribution theoretically and in a particular design situation, from a wider viewpoint, the contribution of this thesis is to create more constructive relationships of architecture-related disciplines to produce better architecture through synergistic effects.