The functional layout of a building significantly influences the selection of its structural system, especially in high-rise constructions, where core location and open floor requirements dictate design choices. For instance, a building with a large, open floor plan might prefer a diagrid or exoskeleton system that minimizes internal columns, thus maximizing usable space. Conversely, buildings requiring heavy vertical circulation systems like elevators and utilities may opt for core-focused systems such as the tube-in-tube approach, where the core handles most vertical loads. The structural system must therefore align with the building's intended function and spatial requirements to ensure both efficiency and occupant comfort .

The diagrid system differs from traditional vertical column systems primarily in its use of diagonally intersecting grids instead of vertical columns. This design minimizes the need for internal columns, allowing for more open interior spaces and flexible floor plans. Diagrids use less steel and enable unique architectural forms, combining structural efficiency with aesthetic appeal. They enhance lateral stiffness more effectively than traditional systems due to the geometry of the diagonal members, which are better positioned to resist lateral forces like wind and seismic loads. Buildings such as The Gherkin in London exemplify the functional and aesthetic advantages of diagrids over conventional vertical column systems, particularly in creating iconic architectural expressions .

Architectural aesthetics play a significant role in the selection of structural systems for supertall buildings, as many systems provide not only functional efficiency but also contribute to the building's visual identity. For instance, systems like diagrids and exoskeletons are chosen not only for their structural advantages but also for their ability to create visually striking facades that can define a skyline. The aesthetics of these systems can attract developers who seek iconic and marketable designs. Ultimately, such selections balance the structural demands with the desire for unique architectural expressions, influencing everything from material choice to facade design, as evidenced by landmark skyscrapers like London's Hearst Tower .

For buildings exceeding 100 stories, wind loads become a significant concern, heavily influencing the choice of structural systems. Such heights require systems that provide high lateral resistance and stiffness to prevent excessive sway, which can cause discomfort to occupants and structural damage. Systems like structural exoskeletons, diagrids, and mega-frames are often employed due to their ability to efficiently distribute wind-induced forces across a larger structural area, reducing overall stress and preventing localized failures. These systems also incorporate aerodynamic designs to minimize wind resistance and incorporate tuned damping technologies to mitigate oscillations. The structural exoskeleton approach not only serves the functional purpose but also contributes to the architectural identity of skyscrapers .

Designing buildings above 100 stories presents unique challenges, primarily related to wind and seismic forces, material efficiency, and maintaining structural stability. These challenges are addressed through advanced structural systems such as mega-frames, exoskeletons, and diagrids, which provide the necessary lateral resilience and stiffness. Technologies like tuned damping systems are used to reduce vibrations and sway. Additionally, aerodynamic design and optimization of material usage are crucial for cost management and sustainability in supertall construction. The integrated use of these systems and technologies ensures both safety and functionality in buildings at such extreme heights .

Seismic zones necessitate the selection of structural systems that offer adequate damping, flexibility, and ductility to absorb and dissipate energy during an earthquake. In such zones, systems like braced frames, which use steel members in X or K patterns to handle lateral loads, are often chosen for their ability to effectively resist seismic forces. The braced frame system is particularly common in these areas due to its ability to handle the dynamics of an earthquake efficiently while maintaining the structural integrity of the building .

The choice of structural system in tall buildings is critical as it influences the building's ability to resist lateral and gravity loads, impacts the material and cost efficiency, and aligns with architectural vision. For instance, systems like diagrids and exoskeletons not only provide the needed structural efficiency and reduce material usage but also can be aesthetically pleasing, aligning with unique architectural designs. Moreover, systems such as bundled tubes or outrigger trusses provide stability while allowing for customized building forms. This ensures that the structural system not only meets engineering requirements but also supports the aesthetic and functional goals of the design .

In tall building design, as height increases, lateral loads such as wind and earthquake forces become more dominant compared to vertical gravity loads. The structural system choice impacts the building's strength, stiffness, stability, and economic viability. For buildings up to 20 stories, load-bearing walls or rigid frames are suitable. Between 20–40 stories, shear walls or braced frames are used. From 40–70 stories, core with outrigger systems or framed tubes are appropriate. For buildings 70–100+ stories, bundled tubes or mega-frame systems are used, and supertall structures often employ structural exoskeletons or diagrids. This progression reflects the need for greater lateral resistance and stiffness as height increases .

The outrigger and belt truss system enhances the structural performance of tall buildings by connecting the central core of the building to the perimeter columns, which significantly increases the building's stiffness. By engaging these exterior columns, the system effectively increases the building's resistance to lateral loads, such as those from wind or seismic activity. This connection helps distribute forces throughout the structure, providing greater stability and minimizing deflections. The system also allows for taller structures by making efficient use of the external columns, often resulting in cost savings on materials and enhanced architectural design. Examples like the Shanghai World Financial Center showcase the system's efficiency in tall buildings .

Bundled tube systems are considered economical and efficient for supertall buildings because they consist of multiple interconnected tubes, which together function as a single structural unit. This configuration provides exceptional strength and stiffness, allowing the building to effectively handle both gravity and lateral loads with relatively less material compared to other systems. The efficiency of the bundled tube system lies in its economical use of materials and the structural redundancy it provides, which enhances both stability and architectural flexibility. The Willis Tower in Chicago is a classic example, demonstrating the bundled tube's structural and economic advantages .