1 Dubai—Engineering and Optimizing a Mega-Structure

The following paper outlines key challenges inherent in the design scheme of a super-tall linked tower (mega-structure) and the unique considerations associated with developing the design of such a complex project. Although 1 Dubai was put on hold as a consequence of the global financial crisis in October 2008, the early phases of building optimization, high performance material utilization, and constructability considerations provided unique lessons that can be applied in future ventures. Intuition and experience on comparable projects is essential in their design but so is keeping a thoughtful approach to building system performance and remaining flexible enough to allow modifications in response to unexpected challenges. To attain an end product that is both rational and efficient, all team members must be able to respond quickly and in a coordinated fashion.