Abstract:
Architects design building structures, although structural design is the
profession of structural engineers. Thus, it is better for architects and structural
engineers to collaborate starting from the initial phases of the architectural design.
However, this is not very common because of the contradictory design processes
and value systems held within the two professions. This article provides a platform
upon which architects and structural engineers can resolve the value conflicts
between them by analysing phases of the structural design of reinforced concrete
frame systems in architecture, the criteria of the structural design for each phase and
determining the conflicting values for each criterion. The results shown in the article
demonstrate that the architectural design of structures is a complex process, which is
based on contradictory values and value systems. Finally, the article suggests to
architects and structural engineers to use Value Sensitive Design and to choose an
appropriate team leader in order to resolve the unethical conflict between them and
to avoid any unreasonable decision making.
