Working links to both Arch and Stru models in Forma Data Management.
Working link to your Individual Forma Board
PDF sheet set of Structural Plans, 30 by 42 inches (E1 size)
Classified clash report with counts.
Design memo of 300 to 400 words: which system and why, where the grid fought your architecture, what you changed in the architectural model.
For my commercial floor, I chose a concrete frame system because concrete can handle higher loads while allowing for relatively large column-free spans. Because the first floor needs to support the residential floors above, a strong material like concrete is required. Additionally, because the first floor is to be a grocery store, the number of columns should be limited to allow for open spaces and easy navigation, and thus concrete was the best decision.
For my residential floors, I chose a wood joist system. Because residential loads are typically lower, wood joists are sufficient to support the weight while requiring heavy mass timber elements, reducing transportation and installation costs. Wood framing is also widely available, and relatively low cost compared to heavier options. Additionally, due to its lighter weight, wood joists are advantageous for earthquake risks in California as the seismic mass is low. Wood systems are also quick to put together, and low embodied carbon compared to concrete.
There were aspects where the grid fought the existing architecture model. For one, I had to consider the existing apartment design when deciding on column placement, to ensure that there were no columns in the middle of the rooms. Additionally, the existing room layouts in the commercial floor ended up clashing with the column placements, and required adjustments to work around the columns. As well, the columns occasionally interact with the existing walls, and thus adjustments to the architecture are required to ensure there is no clashing between the structural elements and the facade.
One part of the architecture that I need to change is the curtain walls in the ground floor. From the clash analysis, I found that the columns overlap with the curtain wall, and thus I need to move the columns inwards to ensure they do not clash with the existing facade.