Comparative project management analysis of different structural systems for high-rise buildings

Abstract

In recent years. Malta has seen an increase in high-rise buildings too. High-rise proposals in Malta have increased since the introduction of the Floor Area Ratio policy in 2014 by the Planning Authority. Technological progress leads to construction innovations. In fact, different types of structural systems can be adopted for the construction of high-rise buildings. As the height of the building exceeds 10 storeys, it is of great importance to reduce the weight of the structure both for functional and economical aspects. Consequently, this research study will attempt to determine the most adequate structural system in terms of time and cost for a particular set of conditions. Through local and foreign case studies, this dissertation will aim to examine different scenarios and structural materials, which are used locally. This will allow the understanding of how different structural systems have different capabilities and their influence on the feasibility till the end of the project. From this research work, a comparative analysis of cost and time will be conducted. This will allow the understanding of the capabilities of different structural systems as well as their influence on the feasibility till the end of the project. Technological progress leads to construction innovations. Different types of structural systems can be adopted for the construction of high-rise buildings. After analysing the advantages and disadvantages of high-rise buildings, this study will attempt to determine the most adequate structural system in terms of time and cost. After conducting the comparative analysis it was concluded that if one had to decide on the total project cost of a system (which includes the opportunity cost related to the construction time), one would opt for the flat slab with void spacers. Apart from being the most economical system, the flat slab with void spacers has as number of beneficial aspects such as lighter structural weight, the economic benefit and other advantageous aspects.