Nature and the Tall Building

Mark SarkisianSEMM SEMINAR
This seminar is sponsored by the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center

Mark P. Sarkisian, PE, SE, LEED® AP
Seismic and Structural Engineering Director
Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, LLP
Monday, October 18, 2010
12:00-1:00 pm in 502 Davis Hall

Presentation file (PDF 21.5 MB)

Abstract: Safe, efficient structural forms are abundant in nature. The challenge, however, is to mathematically describe these forms and to derive behavior that is adaptable to constructible, cost effective building solutions. These adaptations, ma- thematical derivations that use nature’s mechanics in structural design, are particu- larly important in regions of high seismic risk and have led to new innovations in structural systems. Many of these systems incorporate devices that understand and respond to demand, alter behavior, and ensure optimal performance.

Speaker: Mark P. Sarkisian, PE, SE, LEED® AP is the Director of Seismic and Structural Engineering in the San Francisco office of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP. He received his BS Degree in Civil Engineering from University of Connecticut (1983) where he is a Fellow of the Academy of Distinguished Engineers as well as his MS Degree in Structural Engineering from Lehigh University (1985). His career has focused on developing innovative structural engineering solutions for over 75 major building projects around the world. Mark holds four U.S. Patents for high-performance seismic structural mechanisms designed to protect buildings in areas of high seismicity and has additional patents pending for seismic and environmentally responsible structural systems. He is licensed to practice civil/structural engineering in 16 states and has recently written a book entitled "Considering the Tower – Structure as Architecture." Mark recently taught an Integrated Studio class that includes students from UC Berkeley, CCA, Stanford University and Cal Poly, which is focused on the collaborative opportunities in design.

Please consult the seminar web page for future updates: http://www.ce.berkeley.edu .

posted Octoboer 19, 2010