College - Author 1
College of Architecture and Environmental Design
Department - Author 1
Architectural Engineering Department
Degree Name - Author 1
BS in Architectural Engineering
Date
4-2026
Primary Advisor
Peter Laursen, College of Architecture and Environmental Design, Architectural Engineering Department
Abstract/Summary
This report documents research and a case study related to the design of concrete shear wall cores in high-rise buildings. The source of this project is a natural continuation of my structural engineering internship during the summer of 2025. This project is a natural continuation of my concept design efforts on the residential high-rise in the Redmond Project. This study examines high-rise behavior and advanced analysis procedures. It investigates special reinforced concrete shear wall cores as the lateral force resisting system, specifically how the cores resist lateral loads, how experimental behavior differs from theoretical, and how they are designed.
The research portion examines the behavior and design of high-rises, and shear wall core systems, beyond prescriptive code provisions. The concept of out-of-code structures is introduced, emphasizing the need for engineering judgment and more advanced analysis methods when code limits are exceeded. Nonlinear analysis, performance-based design, and peer review as solutions for complex engineering problems are discussed. Key considerations include non-planar geometry, slenderness, torsion, axial load variation, and shear demand, along with how assumptions related to stiffness, overstrength, and ductility influence modeling and design decisions.
The case study applies the research on the reinforced concrete residential tower to be built in the Seattle metropolitan area. Specifically, one U-shaped pier will be investigated and ultimately designed to create a symmetrical special reinforced concrete shear wall core. I performed preliminary seismic analysis on this structure while in the concept design phase during my internship. The structure exceeds prescriptive height limits, and its geometry indicates possible torsional irregularities. Using simplified geometry, a three-dimensional ETABS model is created and analyzed to evaluate structural behavior and seismic demands. Design calculations, including the use of a SpColumn model, are carried out in Excel using ASCE 7 and ACI 318 standards. The final design exhibits the effects of non-planar slender wall behavior, high-strength materials, and reinforcement congestion related to concrete shear wall design.
All project identifying information, including titles, names, addresses, etc., have been modified to comply with privacy and confidentiality agreements. Drawings, models, and supporting documents referenced throughout this report are the property of the project design team.
URL: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/arcesp/239