structural design: the optimal design for high-rise in

Royal HaskoningDHV | The optimal design for high-rise in relation to flexibility, construction time and costs

Structural design: The optimal design for high-rise in relation to flexibility, construction time and costsWhite paper


New approaches and automated tools applied in the design of high-rise buildings are helping increase margins by maximising useful floor space, reducing costs and increasing construction speed. In doing so, they increase the likelihood that the project will be financially viable.

High-rise buildings continue to present developers with a challenge. The increased

density of homes and offices on a single plot offers the potential to multiply returns.

However, the supporting structures and services needed increase costs and take up

space. So, while high-rise buildings offer the prospect of higher yields, margins are

often small. This is where the concept of marginal gains can make a difference. It is

particularly interesting for high-rise because if useable space and materials can be

optimised within a single floor, those benefits become significant when multiplied

across each storey of the building.

For this reason, new tools and approaches that can reliably drive down costs and

increase yield – as well as construction speed and flexibility – are potentially

game-changing for real estate managers, developers and investors. This is exactly

what our structural design team at Royal HaskoningDHV is doing. Using integrated,

multi-disciplinary solutions in combination with advanced digital tools, we are

improving the outcomes for high-rise buildings across many metrics.


What’s new?

A number of elements in the way our structural design team approaches

high-rise buildings come together to add value in solutions.

Parametric design optimises the solutionThe use of computer programs to make calculations in the design of buildings

is not new. What is new is the capability introduced through parametric design

methods. Implemented at the start of the project, the parametric approach

integrates key elements into a single adjustable model. It enables more calcu-

lations to be done more quickly so more variation and accuracy can be achieved.

Using extensive automation through parametric design, it is possible to

optimise features such as:

• The ratio between the total floor space and the useable floor space, once

technical installations, lifts and stairs etc have been taken into account;

• The ideal balance between the floor thickness and spans. Wide open

spans are preferable but require increased thickness of the floor;

• The building height in relation to the required dimensions of vertical

load-bearing elements;

• The weight of the building in respect of the load-bearing capacity

of the foundation;

• and more.

Case Study Parametric methods reduce material requirements by one-third

The stability system for a 70m tower designed by our structural design team is provided by wooden diagonals in a structural grid on the building façade. With parametric design tools, dimensions of each individual support column were calculated which reduced the wood required by a third compared to traditional design methods. Previously, column dimensions would be standardised across floors based on the maximum load. Automated design makes individual calculations possible, leading to a significant reduction in materials.


These disciplines have always needed to work together but, by integrating these aspects in a more

formal way, quicker and more efficient solutions are delivered. For example, calculating foundations

and superstructure in combination produces a streamlined solution which avoids over-dimensioning.

Furthermore, an integrated multi-disciplinary approach ensures the solution works for all aspects

of the design, not simply the structural elements. It also enables wide-ranging parameters to be

incorporated into the parametric model to suit the specific demands of the project.

Inside-out perspective delivers higher returnsThe internal design is key for aligning with the business case for high-rise development. Get it

right and saleable space is maximised, delivering higher return. That’s why designing from the

inside out makes a difference. By optimising the core first - shafts for elevators, ventilation,

electricity and more - and then moving to the arrangement of apartments, office space or other

functions, the developer gains square metres. It is a more efficient and reliable approach than

starting with an image of the exterior and fitting apartments and other elements inside.

Incorporating construction methods reduces build timeIt is not only design disciplines that are integrated within the best solutions. It is also important

to consider how the building will be made. Construction methods influence build speed and the

design, so some decisions need to be made early - for example whether concrete will be cast in

situ or prefabricated.

Integrated approach delivers efficiency and speedMany disciplines are involved in high-rise building design:

Architects consider the aesthetics and overall appearance

Geotechnical engineers address foundations

and piling

Structural designers are responsible for the structure above ground

MEP team designs technical installations -

mechanics, electrics and plumbing.

Case Study Integrated, inside-out approach increases useable space and financial viability

A high-rise tower had been designed with a resulting ratio of useable floor space compared to gross floor area of less than 70%. By deploying parametric tools and designing from the inside to the outside with an integrated team from Royal HaskoningDHV, we have been able to increase this ratio to more than 75%. The project is financially feasible at a ratio of 70% so our optimised solution provides a good margin of comfort to the developer and increased profitability. This is why the parametric approach is so interesting for achieving the financially feasible ratio.


Added value extends to control and flexibility

Central to our approach is the search for added value through driving costs down,

maximising net square metres and increasing yields. There are other benefits too.

Stay in control while objectively reviewing the best solution Parametric design methods and associated 3D models provide stakeholders with

a very clear picture of what is being proposed. By determining what is important,

the relevant parameters for the project are modelled. Then, from a very early stage

in the development, it is possible to see the exact impact of changing a single variable,

giving unprecedented insight into choices available. The visualisation ensures our

client retains full control of the project while being able to objectively review what

makes a good solution.

Enjoy increased flexibility during design and outcomeAutomated design provides flexibility during the design process. If changes

are needed, it is easier to react. It also makes it possible to design flexibility

into the building - useful for many office developments where needs may change.

If, for example, it is foreseen that offices may need to be converted to apartments

in the future, various scenarios can be generated to create a building with potentially

multiple future uses.


If you want to discover the difference - let’s talkHigh-profile, iconic examples of our work can be seen in cities across the world. Our integrated approach to high-rise buildings has been deve-loped out of this considerable experience and is combined with our early adoption of digital tools. With all necessary disciplines within our company, we can work in an integrated way from the start of the project and incorporate this input within the parametric model. It is a combination that creates a unique offering to deliver more competitive solutions for our clients. Find out how we can make the difference for your project.

Walter van AdrichemConsulting Engineer

+31 (0)6 15 55 99 27, [email protected]

Janko Arts Director Advisory Group

+31 (0)6 53 67 93 16, [email protected]

To find out more, get in touch with:

Frans de ZwartBusiness developer

+31 (0)6 53 84 68 95, [email protected]

mailto:walter.van.adrichem%40rhdhv.com?subject=

structural design: the optimal design for high-rise in

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