While the other Architect student and I worked out the design of the STEM school, the Engineering student was simultaneously applying structural possibilities to our ideas. Because of the modular nature of the classrooms in the wings, this project requires two sets of gridlines, rotated 45 degrees from each other. The core of the building uses the grid aligned with the projects' north, while the wings largely operate on the rotated grid. As such, the core and the wings have
lateral systems at 45 degrees to each other. In this post we are going to take a look at our structural options!
[Drafted/Modeled in Revit by Architect Engineering student]
Pros: Mass timber structures are visually intriguing and create a warm feeling in the occupied spaces. Where common dimensioned lumber can be used, materials are cheap. When sourced sustainably, mass timber can decrease the carbon footprint of the building through carbon sequestration. The concrete shear walls are at an adequate height to resist gravity and lateral loads.
[Drafted/Modeled in Revit by Architect Engineering student]
Cons: Timber systems don’t match aesthetic of the design concept, and mass-timber must be sourced from a great distance because it is not a local material (Oklahoma, US). Timber spans are deeper than steel spans which means our large atrium space would need large members. The connection to masonry walls also requires thorough detailing.
[Drafted/Modeled in Revit by Architect Engineering student]
Pros: Using concrete loadbearing walls in the wings and steel in the core allows for an aesthetically pleasing contrast in materials, relating to the
different programming spaces. Structurally, this system is efficient because the materials are cheap and easily accessible for the project location. The spans of the steel are within their efficient range, and the concrete walls are at an adequate height to resist gravity and lateral loads. Both masonry and steel structures allow for quick construction time. Additionally, the
concrete systems can aid in making an acoustic barrier between studio
spaces, especially in zones such as the teaching kitchen and woodshop.
Finally, concrete walls can meet impact requirements for storm shelters, meaning that any space could easily be evaluated to meet this need.
[Drafted/Modeled in Revit by Architect Engineering student]
Cons: concrete walls are heavy, and they result in a more robust foundation. Steel has a long order time, and prefabricated joists are heavily back-ordered due to the current supply chain issues. Because the steel is to be exposed in the core area, fireproofing considerations are necessary!
[Drafted/Modeled in Revit by Architect Engineering student]
System Selected: Steel brace frames are the best lateral system for
coordination with the architectural program, allowing for doors to fit within the bay of the frame. Steel structures offer flexibility in future design.
[Drafted/Modeled in Revit by Architect Engineering student]
I used to think I architecture and architecture engineering could be done by the same group of people. As I've gained more experience in the architecture world I've realized that's impossible. Both groups have their specialty and collaboration brings out the best of us both! Thanks for viewing.