6.5 - CLASSIFICATIONS OF MULTI STOREY BUILDINGS
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Introduction to Multi-Storey Building Classifications
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Today, we will discuss the classifications of multi-storey buildings. Why do you think it's important to classify these buildings based on height?
I think it helps in understanding the different requirements for planning and structure.
Exactly! Different heights require different design considerations. Let's start with low-rise buildings. Can anyone tell me how many storeys are generally in a low-rise building?
Less than four storeys, right?
Correct! So, what advantages do you think low-rise buildings have compared to higher ones?
They might be easier to evacuate in emergencies!
Great point! They also often have lower construction costs. Let's wrap up this session by remembering the types of multi-storey classifications: Low, Mid, High, Skyscrapers, Super Tall, and Mega Tall buildings.
Mid Rise and High Rise Buildings
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Now let’s dive into mid-rise buildings. How many storeys do you think classify a building as mid-rise?
I believe it’s between 4 to 12 storeys.
Correct! What about high-rise buildings? How do they differ from mid-rise in terms of height?
High-rise buildings have more than 12 storeys, right?
Exactly! And they typically require more complex engineering for safety, especially concerning elevators and emergency exits.
What about safety measures? Are they different for these buildings?
Absolutely! High-rise buildings need stringent fire safety regulations. Remember the terms 'mid-rise' and 'high-rise' as they play a crucial role in understanding urban planning.
Skyscrapers and Beyond
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Moving on to the giants of the skyline, skyscrapers! How many storeys does a skyscraper typically have?
More than 40 storeys, but under 300 meters.
Well said! And what’s one key feature that sets skyscrapers apart?
Their use of innovative materials and engineering techniques!
Exactly! Now, what about super tall buildings? What height qualifies a building as super tall?
Over 300 meters!
Correct! And how might that change the way we think about building design?
They must deal with extreme wind loads and structural stability.
Right again! Remember, categories like skyscrapers and super tall buildings challenge our architectural ingenuity.
Planning Considerations for Multi-Storey Buildings
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As we classify buildings, we must also discuss planning aspects. Why do you think planning is crucial for different types of multi-storey buildings?
Because each type has different needs in terms of design, site usage, and safety!
Absolutely! Can anyone recall a few factors influencing building planning?
The functionality, plot shape, and even climate conditions!
Spot on! Planning takes into account all these, ensuring the building is both practical and comfortable. Remember, each design must reflect its environment.
Minimum Requirements for Building Designs
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Finally, let's explore the regulations behind building sizes. What’s a typical minimum plot size for a detached building?
It’s above 250 square meters, right?
Correct! And how does that affect the design?
It determines how much space we have to work with for construction.
Exactly! And what about frontages? Why are they significant?
They influence accessibility and aesthetics from the street!
Good point! Let’s keep these concepts in mind as they will guide your planning decisions.
Introduction & Overview
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Quick Overview
Standard
Multi-storey buildings are categorized into low-rise, mid-rise, high-rise, skyscrapers, super-tall, and mega-tall structures, each with specific characteristics regarding their height and functionality. The principles of planning are also influenced by various factors including location, plot shape, and design requirements.
Detailed
Detailed Summary
In the field of building planning, multi-storey buildings are essential for urban development and efficient land use. This section classifies multi-storey buildings into six primary categories:
- Low Rise Buildings: Typically fewer than four storeys, relying on elevators and stairs for moving between levels.
- Mid Rise Buildings: These buildings consist of 4 to 12 storeys and also utilize elevators and stairs for accessibility.
- High Rise Buildings: Ranging from 12 to 40 storeys, high rise buildings impose specific design and safety considerations due to their height.
- Skyscrapers: A defining feature of modern cities, these habitable structures exceed 40 storeys but remain below 300 meters in height.
- Super Tall Buildings: These massive structures rise above 300 meters and are primarily steel-frame constructions.
- Mega Tall Buildings: Defined as buildings that exceed 600 meters in height, often pushing the boundaries of engineering and architecture.
The planning aspects consider the functional objectives of these buildings, the relationships between spaces, environmental factors, and local regulations such as plot sizes and building frontages.
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Low Rise Buildings
Chapter 1 of 6
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Chapter Content
- Low Rise building: A low rise multi storey building has few storeys (typically less than four), with the usage of elevators and stairs for vertical circulation.
Detailed Explanation
Low rise buildings are those that usually contain fewer than four floors. These buildings can be residential or commercial and are designed to be accessible, allowing movement between levels through stairs and elevators. Because they are relatively short, they often blend seamlessly into suburban environments, making them ideal for locations where space is moderate and easy access is desired.
Examples & Analogies
Think of a small apartment building or a few-story office complex in a neighborhood. It's not too tall, so you don’t need to wait long for an elevator, and it feels close-knit, much like a community library that doesn’t tower over other buildings.
Mid Rise Buildings
Chapter 2 of 6
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Chapter Content
- Mid Rise building: A Mid Rise building has number of storeys ranging from 4 to 12.
Detailed Explanation
Mid rise buildings typically have between four and twelve floors. They are taller than low rise buildings and are common in urban areas, providing a balance between height and accessibility. These buildings may require larger elevators and more complex fire safety systems due to their height, and they often feature apartments, offices, or mixed-use spaces.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine a typical city block where you have a building that is about 6-8 stories high. These buildings usually feature shops on the first floor, with apartments or offices above, similar to a busy downtown café that has office workers above.
High Rise Buildings
Chapter 3 of 6
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Chapter Content
- High Rise building: A High Rise building has number of storeys ranging from 12 to 40, with the usage of lifts and stairs.
Detailed Explanation
High rise buildings are defined as those that have between 12 and 40 floors. They are commonly found in major urban centers and require elevators for efficient vertical transportation. High rises maximize land usage in congested areas, allowing more people or businesses to occupy a smaller footprint. Proper planning and design are crucial to ensure safety and accessibility.
Examples & Analogies
Think of a large apartment tower or office building in a city like New York. These structures stand out against the skyline and often have fast elevators, just like a high-speed train that gets you from one level to another quickly in a busy environment.
Skyscrapers
Chapter 4 of 6
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Chapter Content
- Skyscraper building: A tall and habitable steel building having storeys more than 40 but height less than 300m is considered as Sky Scrapper Multi storey building.
Detailed Explanation
Skyscrapers are uniquely defined as tall buildings with more than 40 floors, and while they can vary in height, they typically do not exceed 300 meters. They represent architectural advancements that allow for significant height due to innovations in materials and construction techniques. Skyscrapers are a hallmark of modern cities and often house a mix of residential, commercial, and office spaces.
Examples & Analogies
Picture iconic buildings like the Empire State Building or the Burj Khalifa (if we consider the height limitations appropriately). They're like the tall trees of a city, providing shade and space for various activities on multiple levels and changing the skyline significantly.
Super Tall Buildings
Chapter 5 of 6
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Chapter Content
- Super tall building: Super tall building is the steel building with its height exceeding 300m are Super tall Multi storey building.
Detailed Explanation
Super tall buildings refer to those that exceed 300 meters in height and are mostly constructed from steel. These structures require advanced engineering practices to safely support their massive weight and withstand environmental factors such as wind. They often include features like double-decker elevators and advanced safety systems, making them marvels of modern engineering.
Examples & Analogies
Think of the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which is a prime example of a super tall building. It's like a birthday candle standing tall among many and requires remarkable engineering skills to maintain its structural integrity and functionality.
Mega Tall Buildings
Chapter 6 of 6
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Chapter Content
- Mega tall building: Super tall building is the steel building with its height exceeding 600m are Super tall Multi storey building.
Detailed Explanation
Mega tall buildings are among the tallest structures in the world, reaching heights that exceed 600 meters. These buildings represent the pinnacle of architectural and engineering achievement and often become landmarks in their cities. The design must incorporate sophisticated materials, systems for efficient energy use, and methods to address the challenges of building at such heights.
Examples & Analogies
Consider the Jeddah Tower, designed to reach incredible heights surpassing the current tallest buildings. Building such a structure is like trying to balance a pencil on its tip; it requires incredible precision and innovation to ensure it stands strong against natural forces.
Key Concepts
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Multi-Storey Building Classes: Understand the classification based on height and functionality.
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Functional Requirements: Recognize how occupancy influences design.
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Building Regulations: Acknowledge the legal and safety standards applicable.
Examples & Applications
A low-rise residential building in a suburban area typically has fewer than four storeys and contributes to a cozy community feel.
A skyscraper like the Burj Khalifa represents a super tall building, innovatively designed to withstand extreme environmental forces.
Memory Aids
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Rhymes
Low rise, mid rise, high to the skies, skyscrapers walk tall, mega towers rise!
Stories
Once there was a town with low-rise homes and mid-high buildings, they all aimed to touch the clouds. The tallest skyscraper tried harder, reaching the sky without bother!
Memory Tools
L - Low, M - Mid, H - High, S - Sky, ST - Super Tall, MT - Mega Tall.
Acronyms
LMHSSM - Learning the Multi-Storey Heights
Low
Mid
High
Skyscraper
Super Tall
Mega Tall.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Low Rise Building
A multi-storey building with less than four storeys.
- Mid Rise Building
A multi-storey building with 4 to 12 storeys.
- High Rise Building
A multi-storey building with 12 to 40 storeys.
- Skyscraper
A habitable building with over 40 storeys but less than 300 meters in height.
- Super Tall Building
A building exceeding 300 meters in height.
- Mega Tall Building
A building exceeding 600 meters in height.
- Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
The ratio of the total covered area of all floors to the plot area.
- Building Frontage
The length of a building that faces a street.
- Minimum Front Open Space
The required open space in front of a building based on street width.
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