Nature's Influence on Tall Building Design
Mark Sarkisian, P.E., S.E., M.ASCE
Director of Structural Engineering, Skidmore, Owings and Merrill LLP

Safe, efficient structural forms are abundant in nature.  The challenge, however, is to mathematically describe these forms and to derive behavior that is adaptable to constructible, cost effective building solutions.  These adaptations, mathematical derivations that use nature’s mechanics in structural design, are particularly important in regions of high seismic risk and have led to new innovations in structural systems.   Many of these systems incorporate devices that understand and respond to demand, alter behavior, and ensure optimal performance.

Mark Sarkisian, PE, SE, LEED AP, Director of Structural Engineering at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP in San Francisco will present recent work illustrating these designs.  The projects are located in the United States and overseas and typically incorporate non-prescriptive analysis and design approaches.  These projects include innovative approaches to wind and seismic engineering.  In addition, new concepts that incorporate “mechanized”approaches to structures will be discussed.