Structural Design

What is a structural design?

Structural design is the process of investigating, considering, assessing, and calculating the structural elements of a construction project in order to provide a structural design solution which is capable of withstanding the static and live loads imposed upon the structure. The main purpose of a structure is to transmit a load down through a building in a safe and calculated manner so the building can withstand the associated forces and does not fail, while performing the intended function.

A structural design can take many different forms depending on the project specific requirements, complexity of the proposed works and the way in which the works are procured. A structural design will likely include structural drawings, structural calculations, and a specification, which will incorporate confirmation of material types, standards and methodology for the construction.

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What is included in a structural design?

At the outset of a project the structural engineer appointed to complete the structural design will advise on the likely information requirements, or the requirements for opening up and/or investigation. Depending on the proposed scheme, site, building etc. it may be necessary to complete the following to inform the structural design: ground investigations, window samples, bore holes, soak away tests, isolated opening up etc. From these initial assessments and investigations the structural engineer should be able to provide an outline or feasibility structural design which will confirm whether the proposal is achievable, what constraints there are and what the structural design will likely be. This assists with informing costs, planning applications, appearance etc.

Following completion of the outline design the structural engineer will complete a detailed structural design. This will include detailed structural drawings which will show the layout of the structural frame, position of beams, construction details of foundations, connection points etc. Some elements of the structural design may be left to the contractor or a specific supplier to confirm such as cladding connections. The detailed structural design will also include structural calculations, which will confirm the size, length, code etc. of the various structural members. This information will also be used to assist with obtaining building regulations approval and is necessary to ensure that works have been designed to a suitable standard. Finally, the structural design will include a written specification which will include details on what materials, concrete mixes etc., should be used in the construction, sundry items etc.

A structural design can be produced for many different types of project and the most common types will be as follows:

New build projects including offices, industrial, retail, leisure etc.;
Extensions (horizontal and vertical);
External Works;

Bolt-on renewable technology;
Replacement of external cladding/roof covering which will alter structural loadings;
External areas;
Infrastructure.

Specific elements of the structural design will likely include:

Structural member design/calculations;
Structural frame design;
Cross-section details;
Foundation design;
Floor loadings;
Lintels;
Roof truss design.

The structural engineer will likely be engaged throughout the project including the construction phase. As works progress then certain elements of a building can be opened up or new issues identified which may result in alterations to the structural design. A structural engineer will be able to alter elements of the structural design to enable speedy resolution and for the works to continue without impacting programme etc.

Why do you need a structural design?

There are many benefits to having a structural design. Firstly, by engaging an experienced and competent structural engineer as a client or project manager you will ensure that the structural design is completed to a satisfactory standard in accordance with design standards, legislation and best practice. This will provide comfort that the structural design will be suitable for and perform to the intended purpose.

By completing a structural design it will also enable contractors tendering for the works to adequately understand the proposed works and accurately price the works. This will enable a more competitive tender process and should minimise any confusion and likelihood of discussions or disagreements arising during the construction phase.

Information contained in the structural design will also be required to obtain building regulations approval. If the works form part of a Party Wall Award then they will also be needed to clarify the design and works. Finally, the design may be required to assist with any planning application, as will likely have some impact on the architectural design.