A Critical Analysis of Earthquake-Resistant Architectural Provisions

Modern science has enabled experts in building process such as engineers and architects to prepare and organize earthquake provisions through building codes. However, having a modern earthquake code does not guarantee earthquake resistant buildings. The clarity of the codes, especially for architects, and code enforcement are other important factors that should be satisfied. Many scholars and practicing architects may think that ensuring the implementation of earthquake-resistant designs is primarily the responsibility of the structural engineer, but in reality it is not. Earthquake-resistant design is closely related to the architectural configuration of a building. In many instances, certain earthquake resistant design requirements are neglected both in architectural education and in practice with the thought that the structural engineer can integrate earthquake provisions in the design later, after the architectural design is completed. This paper presents a critical analysis of earthquake provisions related to architectural design, both in building codes and architectural education especially for reinforced concrete buildings in the case of Turkey.