doi:10.3850/9789628014194_0075

ABSTRACT

This paper presents an overview of the design and construction of some of the tallest buildings in the world, currently under construction in the Gulf region. The paper explores some of the key natural and commercial forces at work in the region, and how these forces shape the design of these super high rise projects. The key natural forces of regional seismic activity and the wind environment of the Gulf are highlighted as having characteristics which are unique to the Gulf, and their effects upon the design of these tall buildings must be carefully considered in design. Typical subsurface conditions in the Gulf are outlined, and the ability of this marine sediment material to degrade under cyclic loading is highlighted. A series of postcards of mixed use towers in the height range of 450 metres to 600 metres currently under design and/or construction in the Gulf are used to illustrate the observations offered in the paper. Finally, additional thoughts and studies are offered for future sustainable tall building design.

Keywords: Concrete, Construction, Design, Steel, Sustainable design, Tall.

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