99% Invisible Structural Integrity (Rebroadcast)
Oct 14, 2015
Learn about the unique construction of the City Corp Tower and the challenges faced. Discover the potential flaw in the building's structure and the secret construction project that took place. Hear about Diane Hartley's research on the building's design, and reflections on problem-solving and gratitude.
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City Corp Center's Unique Design
- The City Corp Center, a 59-story skyscraper in New York, was built in 1977.
- Its unique design involved stilts raising the building 115 feet above street level, allowing for a church underneath.
Design Constraints of the Church
- The building's design was influenced by the presence of St. Peter's Lutheran Church.
- The church's location necessitated placing the supporting stilts in the middle of each side, impacting stability.
Swaying and the Damper
- The chevron bracing structure, while lightweight, made the building sway in the wind.
- A tuned mass damper was installed to counteract the swaying motion.