The Evolutionary Process of Diagrid Structure Towards Architectural, Structural and Sustainability Concepts: Reviewing Case Studies

Abstract

Recently the use of perimeter diagonals which resist lateral forces and carry gravity loads simultaneously without vertical columns has increased significantly and are known as ‘diagrid’. This structure is made up of diamond modules with diagonal members and provides more lateral stiffness compared to the conventional structures. Generally, these structures have provided the context for more elegant designs and more efficient structures, making them so popular among architects and engineers. Consequently, these structures have made significant advances during the last decade although they are regarded as a totally new trend. The paper aims at discovering the evolutionary process of diagrid structures and their progresses which leads to major breakthroughs in architectural, structural and sustainability concepts. Indeed, these recent advances are investigated and reported for architects and engineers. The results, based on case studies, show that these structures have been able to address most of the designing requirements. They have also been used in different projects with totally different heights, areas and functions, suggesting diamond modules can be applied not only for high-rises but for a wide range of projects.