Structural Depth

The proposed solution for the design is a pre-cast concrete system with steel joists and bearing walls used for the gravity system with the use of shear walls for the lateral system.  In order to maintain the current stair/elevator towers, the shear wall configuration of the building will remain the same as it has been proven to function as an efficient lateral system.  

 

Multiple factors based the decision to explore this new system.  Pre cast concrete planks are an efficient way to construct long buildings of equally spaced bays with simple geometry.  This can reduce the schedule for construction, simultaneously reducing the project cost.  In addition, the use of light weight metal gauge bearing walls could reduce the overall building mass and effect of seismic loads on the building.  To simplify the layout, the current column grid will have to be adjusted which could help reduce the amount of columns. 

 

Construction Management Breadth

The alternate system will have an effect on both the cost and project schedule.  A cost comparison will be performed for both the existing system and proposed system.  In addition, a detailed critical path schedule will be performed to determine if the pre-cast concrete planks will accelerate the construction schedule.  Both the cost and schedule data will help determine the feasibility of the proposed alternative system.  

 

Acoustics Breadth

The acoustics breadth will address the common noise problems that are found in typical residence halls.  The acoustics breadth will require a sound transmission criteria evaluation for an entire floorplan.  New wall and floor details will be used to determine the noise transmission through the materials.  The comfort of the occupants is at the forefront of this project and will be considered through the entire report. In addition, other ways of reducing the noise transmission between rooms will be investigated.