ABSTRACT
The design of tall building foundations involves the consideration of several aspects which require input from both geotechnical and structural experts. This chapter illustrates the components of the overall foundation design process. Poulos has suggested that methods of analysis and design can be classified into three broad categories: category 1: Empirical or semi-empirical methods, category 2: Soundly based methods, employing simplified theory and/or charts, and category 3: Relatively advanced methods incorporating more realistic site-specific soil profiles and more realistic soil models. The aim of preliminary concept/schematic design stage is to assess the feasibility of alternative foundation options and develop an initial design. The chapter provides the foundation scheme and checks the effects of refinements such as basement wall resistance which may provide some additional scope for foundation design optimisation. Pile construction specifications generally include a tolerance for pile verticality. A key aspect of sustainability with respect to foundations for tall buildings is minimisation of resource use, costs and environmental impacts.
