This chapter introduces the basic considerations for the structural forms of tall buildings and the history and lists of tall buildings in Hong Kong. A general introduction to the structure of the whole book is also included to facilitate the readers

This chapter introduces the various structural elements and systems that are commonly adopted for the structural design of buildings, especially tall buildings. The advantages and limitations of each system are discussed with respect to the structural behaviour and performance. Sufficient in-depth discussions are provided so that the readers can make choice(s) on the structural system(s) that is suitable for a particular project.

This chapter discusses the various types of loadings that are required to be considered in the design of buildings. The loadings include dead loads and various types of live loads, wind loads, water and soil loads, seismic loads, snow loads, temperature loads, and others. There are various considerations behind these loadings, which are discussed in depth in this chapter. Various load combinations will also be discussed with respect to British codes, Euro codes, and ASCE codes. 

This chapter introduces the classical methods as well as the modern computational approach for tall building analysis. The structural behaviour of basic structural elements as well as sub-systems and joints are discussed in detail. The second-order effect with respect to large deformation which is important for steel structures is also discussed in this chapter. The materials in this chapter can greatly enhance the application of computer programs for the analysis of complicated tall buildings.

This chapter discusses the ductility, durability, robustness, and fire resistance considerations for building designs which are usually not well-treated in many texts. The considerations will include both reinforced concrete and steel buildings.

This chapter gives an introduction to the various considerations in the selection of foundations, which include cost, geology, settlement, loadings, and the surrounding buildings. 

This chapter discusses the ultimate limit state, and serviceability limit state design of shallow foundation, which is further complimented by site tests. Classical and computational methods for simple footing and raft foundation analysis and design are discussed in detail in sthis chapter.

In this chapter, different types of piles are classified, with the method of construction and design. The analysis and design of piles include vertical and lateral load analysis for single piles and pile groups. A detailed discussion of the various field pile tests and the methods for interpretation are included to assist the readers in the field control of pile installation. 

In this chapter, different types of retaining wall systems are introduced. The method of installation of these wall types is discussed in detail, with the support of many field photos and construction method statements from contractors. The methods of excavation are illustrated with some practical examples from Hong Kong. Following the construction aspects, the theory behind the lateral earth pressure, water pressure and the methods of analysis for the staged excavation are discussed, while the problems that may arise during deep excavation are illustrated with practical examples. A sample monitoring scheme for a project is also included in this chapter to help the readers appreciate the use of IOT monitoring during construction, which is now becoming popular for many large-scale construction works. 

This chapter introduces a complete design of the ELS, foundation, and superstructure in Hong Kong. The constraints and various considerations with respect to the final scheme for the foundation, ELS, and multi-storey buildings are discussed.