Structural Analysis and Design of a G+3 Residential Building: A Comparative Study in Dehradun

Abstract

This paper presents a theoretical exploration of the structural analysis and design process for a G+3 (Ground plus three floors) residential building. The core objective is to compare traditional manual calculation techniques with the capabilities of structural analysis software (specifically STAAD Pro). The analysis considers fundamental load types: gravity loads (dead and live loads, following Indian Standard IS 875) and lateral loads, particularly seismic forces evaluated using the Equivalent Static Method outlined in IS 1893 (Part 1): 2016. Key structural elements like slabs, beams, and columns are designed based on the Limit State Method principles from IS 456:2000. The study contrasts the conceptual basis and application of manual methods (such as Kani's method for gravity frames and the Portal Frame method for lateral loads) against the computational power and precision offered by software. The findings generally show a conceptual alignment between the approaches, affirming the value of understanding manual methods while underscoring the significant advantages of software in handling complex analyses and optimizing designs in contemporary structural engineering.