An analysis of space efficiency in Asian supertall towers

Abstract

PurposeSupertall towers (300 m+) offer a viable solution to the increasing demand for housing and commercial space caused by rapid urban growth, migration from rural to urban areas and economic expansion in Asia. In this particular context, the efficient utilization of space becomes a crucial factor in the design process for Asian skyscrapers as they seek to address the changing socioeconomic landscape. This study will provide valuable guidance, especially to architectural and structural designers in the pursuit of sustainable development for Asian skyscrapers by analyzing space efficiency.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology employed in this paper involved a case study approach to gather data on 75 Asian supertall towers in order to examine space efficiency.FindingsFindings of the research can be summarized as follows: (1) the average space efficiency of these towers was 67.5%, ranging from a minimum of 55% to a maximum of 82%; (2) the average proportion of the core area to the gross floor area (GFA) was 29.5%, with values ranging from 14% to 38%; (3) the majority of Asian skyscrapers exhibited a tapered form and adopted a central core typology, which catered to mixed-use and office purposes; (4) the most frequently utilized structural system was a combination of composite and outriggered frames; (5) space efficiency tended to decrease as the height of the tower increased; and (6) there was no noteworthy difference in the impact of various load-bearing systems and building forms on space efficiency.Originality/valueThere is a noticeable lack of extensive research into space efficiency in supertall towers in Asia, which serves as a hub for skyscrapers. This study seeks to fill this substantial gap in the current scientific literature.

Analysis of the Main Architectural and Structural Design Considerations in Tall Timber Buildings

“…However, in the context of constructing supertall buildings, a paradigm shift occurs, with outriggered frame systems assuming a commonplace role. This distinctive trend signifies a deliberate departure from conventional choices, highlighting the unique structural considerations that come into play when engineering exceptionally tall structures [102,103].…”

Investigating Space Utilization in Skyscrapers Designed with Prismatic Form

“…Ilgın [29] conducted a thorough investigation into the spatial efficiency of 75 supertall buildings situated in Asia. The study's main findings can be outlined as follows: (a) the average spatial efficiency was 67.5%, with a range from 55% to 82%; (b) the mean ratio of core to gross floor area (GFA) was about 30%, varying between 14% and 38%.…”

Analysis of Space Efficiency in High-Rise Timber Residential Towers

“…The study found space efficiency ranging from 78% to 88%. Ilgın [25][26][27][34][35][36] investigated space efficiency in various types of skyscrapers, including office, residential, and mixed-use towers. Common findings across these studies included the frequent use of outriggered frame systems and a central core, and an inverse relationship between tower height and space efficiency.…”