Economic perspectives of aerodynamic treatments of square tall buildings

This paper investigates the impact and value of aerodynamic modifications, based on wind engineering considerations, on the building economics of tall structures. Aerodynamically efficient plan shapes are shown to be an effective means of suppressing wind-induced loads, and hence construction cost, but may come at the cost of reducing both the size and value of saleable/rentable floor area. Therefore, it is not straightforward for engineers to decide on aerodynamic modifications, such as the size and type of corner modifications, with regard to both the structural responses and the effects on economic rewards. A series of wind tunnel tests were conducted at the CLP Power Wind/Wave Tunnel Facility, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, using the high frequency force balance technique for building models with different corner modifications. Empirical formulae are proposed to relate the cross-wind responses to the building dimensions and dynamic properties. Those formulations are subsequently employed to assess the financial profits for each building configuration. The construction costs and financial returns of tall buildings are also examined.