Foundation Architecture: A New Approach for Building Structures from the Ground Up.-Paper

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The paper proposes <strong>Foundation Architecture</strong>, a bottom-up approach that places geotechnical and foundation engineering at the beginning of building design. In conventional practice, architects and structural engineers shape a project before geotechnical specialists are substantially involved. This can leave foundation options unexplored, contribute to costly redesigns when ground conditions differ from expectations, and miss opportunities to improve efficiency and sustainability.

Under Foundation Architecture, geotechnical engineers first assess the site and identify feasible foundation systems. Structural engineers then develop compatible structural options, and architects design attractive buildings within the resulting possibilities. The approach does not replace collaboration among disciplines; it changes when foundation expertise enters the process and makes the ground an active design consideration.

The authors illustrate the concept with the InterContinental Shanghai Wonderland, built in an abandoned quarry using an unusual two-point support system that connects the building to bedrock. They also discuss multifunctional foundations, such as seismic base isolation and buoyant systems that allow buildings to rise during floods. These examples show how foundations can do more than carry loads: they can help structures respond to environmental hazards and make use of existing site conditions.

Looking ahead, the paper envisions foundations and superstructures as more independent, modular components joined through robust connections. Potential advantages include greater design flexibility, easier maintenance and replacement, improved adaptability, reduced construction waste, and structures tailored to specific environmental or energy needs. The authors argue that this approach could help address climate change, challenging soils, limited construction sites, and resource constraints. They conclude that foundation engineers should play a leading role in creating site-specific, resilient, and sustainable infrastructure.

Keywords

Foundation Architecture

geotechnical engineering

foundation design

bottom-up approach

site assessment

structural engineering

sustainable infrastructure

seismic base isolation

modular construction

resilient design