Influence of Staircase and Core Wall Placement on the Lateral Load Resistance of Reinforced Concrete Buildings

https://doi.org/10.46610/IJSAACT.2026.v02i01.002

Abstract

Lateral load resistance is an important factor in ensuring the safety and stability of multistory reinforced concrete (RC) buildings, especially in earthquake-prone regions such as Bangladesh. In typical RC buildings, lift core walls are used to resist both gravity and lateral loads. However, previous studies have mainly focused on the location of lift core walls and have given less attention to the role of staircases in improving structural performance. Since staircases are essential parts of buildings, their position may also influence the overall seismic behavior. This study examines the combined effect of lift core wall and staircase positions on the seismic performance of RC multistoried buildings. A total of eight models are analyzed, where the staircase is placed adjacent to the lift core wall for practical use and better architectural planning. Two types of building layouts, namely existing and arbitrary, are considered. All models are G+6 storied buildings located in Earthquake Zone-2 and are analyzed using ETABS software under both gravity and lateral loads. The models are compared based on key parameters such as soft story, torsional irregularity, and serviceability. The results show that the position of lift core walls and staircases has a noticeable effect on structural performance. Two suitable positions are identified for both layout types, which improve seismic resistance and reduce irregularities. The findings of this study can help engineers and designers make better decisions for safer and more efficient building design in seismic areas.