An earthquake damaged 13-storey tower building was saved from demolition and repaired. The innovative design and strengthening techniques converted the original design to a rocking wall structure that meets current building code seismic standards, while retaining the original building aesthetics. The strengthening solution employed damping devices retrofitted to the existing structure, in conjunction with a new 37m-long post-tensioning system. The engineering team overcame significant uncertainty around design and constructability to integrate damping devices into the building, along with other elements of seismic strengthening, all made possible through complex temporary works and project sequencing.
An innovative project demonstrating the first use of a novel damping device on a reinforced concrete building. The daring seismic strengthening efforts of the engineers enabled the retention of an existing structure that would otherwise not meet current seismic codes. Instead of opting for a simpler demolition and rebuild, the engineers implemented a system to enhance resilience by allowing the building to dissipate energy and reduce structural forces, creating a rocking plane by cutting the structure off at podium level. Changing the stability system significantly reduced embodied carbon, as compared to demolition and new build. The engineering team involved early engagement with contractors and used 3D printed prototypes to check construction sequences.