Challenges in the Architectural Technical Design of the New Generation of Supertall Buildings

The design of a supertall building poses many challenges to the architect and engineer. Using Jeddah Tower as a case study; this paper intends to discuss a few of those challenges specifically related to the arrangement of programmed spaces in the tower, their functional connection by means of the vertical transportation system and physical connection with shafts which introduces the potential for stack effect in the building. The measures applied in response to and mitigation of these issues are discussed.