Wall construction method

[earthsuntech]

We are developing plans for a house to be built in a rural setting in central Virginia. Requirements are large open space, fool-proof shed roof, more like a commercial building than residence. Houses of similar design can be seen with search for “shed roof house”. Preliminary drawings of the house:

http://earthsunfarms.com/House/

Would appreciate hearing thoughts for design of the “wall-of-windows” wall.

Steel moment frame is one and and we understand if so to use heavier materials and standard strength connection methods to achieve a stronger wall with lower total costs. Thoughts?

Appreciate links to any similar projects, any thoughts on specifics on fundamental design/construction/materials. Pros/cons of different possibilities? Thanks,

 

[KootK]

The way that the timber columns on the wall of windows is detailed, it appears that they may flagpole up from the block wall below. If so, that's a very clever solution and I'd consider replicating it.

I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.

 

[hokie66]

A steel moment frame would be my first thought. But in one of your elevations, there looks to be a substantial length of wall which could be a shear wall. And I agree with KootK that the face planted timber columns extending up as cantilevers could work as well, and look interesting.

 

[HouseBoy]

I would guess that the large solid wall "panel" in the middle if the building would be (or could be made) much more stiff that a moment frame and it seems to me that it (the solid section of wall) could be used as a shear wall and moment frames might not be needed to resist wind loading parallel to this wall.
Regarding wind load perpendicular to this wall. I would expect 2x8 or 2x10 studs (thinking of the needed depth) would be where I would start if wood framing or light gage metal sad framing is desired.
Overall the plan size is relatively large and there are no internal shear walls (apparently) so connectivity (drag struts) and diaphragm design seem to be important design considerations but I would think they are manageable. "Fancy blocking" will be needed due to the roof overhangs.
I'd be curious about the grade. Might be unbalanced soil condition requiring retaining wall design for some of the "basement" walls.

 

[KootK]

When I'd first responded, I'd only looked at the Wintergreen stuff. Having looked at the rest, I agree, there appears to be a reasonable amount of solid perimeter shear wall to work with. and that's surely the most economical way to proceed. I think that it's a is take to assume that steel moment frames would result in the lowest overall cost.

I like to debate structural engineering theory -- a lot. If I challenge you on something, know that I'm doing so because I respect your opinion enough to either change it or adopt it.

 

[earthsuntech]

Thanks much for kind responses.

Thanks for question related to site/basement walls... will post images of site.

So shear wall support from solid perimeter area could provide enough strength to greatly reduce/potentially eliminate metal framing. Interesting, but this is intended to be built extra strong; and, of course, need a way to hold up roof joists cantilevered out on sides

Re. steel frame, before reading comments drew this... How much over-designed is this? Far-out, impractical? Additions/subtractions? Nice if you can afford it? Completely start over?

http://earthsunfarms.com/House/Steel_Frame/

Note - frame openings allow generic window/door selection later, living level floor not shown, diagonal “X” bracing intended to be solid members (not wire), site has experienced seismic activity

Thanks for thoughts,