CONSTRUCTION ’ S DIZZY NEW HEIGHTS
CG : How do engineers fill the gap between technology and architectural visions for tall buildings ? AD : Buildings are not only becoming taller , but they ’ re becoming more majestic and are able to perform better in terms of energy efficiency and indoor comfort levels for occupants . We continue to produce what would have been unimaginable a decade ago thanks to worldclass engineering solutions that were needed to construct the demanding and visionary buildings that architects have mapped out . Besides being more aesthetically pleasing , they ’ re also becoming more economical and easier to construct .
Design professionals , specifically architects , feel they are less constrained by technology than in the past , and rightfully so . As consulting engineers , it ’ s our job to use technical skills so that an architect or a client ’ s vision can be realised . Today , we ’ re able to build magnificently intricate tall buildings that tell a story thanks to the customised , handcrafted ideas of architects , which leads architects to dream and plan bigger . In turn , the pressure is put on engineers to find workable building solutions to bring the visions of architects to life .
Our ability to create extraordinary and inspirational projects can be attributed to the collaboration that goes on between our design teams and our willingness to cross traditional boundaries . Whether it ’ s unique geometric shapes , complex façades or extreme wind testing and analysis that needs to be done , the engineers on a project need to come up with a workable solution to get the job done . Engineers and architects work very closely right from the start of any supertall building project , so it ’ s a very dynamic and refreshing working environment to be in .
CG : Do supertall buildings add value to cities , or are they the preserve of the well-off only ? AD : Many of the existing tall buildings are upmarket residential buildings or luxury hotels and it ’ s true that most people won ’ t have a chance to live that way . The current and planned tall buildings , however , address a very real and important issue that many countries and cities face – the fact that we are running out of space to house people . This is a key
19