The Shard is the tallest building in Western Europe but its engineering interest lies not just in the height but in the complex geometry, the change in floor structure up the building, the constricted site and the method of construction. The shape led to many transfers in the perimeter columns and they are also in the core to allow lift shafts to start at high levels. The post-tensioned concrete slabs in the residential areas allowed the client to fit in two extra floors. The use of top down construction for the base of the core is a world first.
The engineering design of a building of this height presents its own challenges but the structural engineers go beyond this in their creativity when responding to the unusual aspects of the design and by developing the construction aspects that are key to a successful project