Optimization of column layouts in buildings considering structural and architectural constraints

Reducing concrete consumption is important as part of the global effort of fighting the climate change, and specifically in concrete flat slabs as these are among the largest cement consumers. In this study we formulate an efficient gradient-based optimization of column locations, that minimizes the slabs’ thickness with constraints on the deflections, bending moments and shear stresses while accounting for architectural considerations. The results show that the columns’ optimal locations are not trivial and that the slab thickness is very sensitive to the columns’ exact locations. Thus, concrete savings in slabs of up to 20% are possible with minor modification to traditional layouts of columns, and up to 50% with more pronounced updates, which emphasizes the importance of early collaboration between architects and engineers. The results indicate the critical trade-off between structural efficiency and architectural freedom and demonstrate the potential of formal optimization in structural design. Gradient-based optimization of columns locations in arbitrary shaped floors. Thickness minimization with deflections, strength, and architectural constraints. Concrete savings may reach 50% with non-trivial optimized column locations. Even minor updates in traditional column layouts may result in significant savings. The trade-off between structural efficiency and architectural freedom is studied.