A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Engineering, School of Engineering and Technology

Thesis (M. Eng.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 1980

Presented in this study is the formulation, development and implementation of a linear programming computer optimization model for the design of a high-rise condominium building at a preliminary design stage. The model generates information on building configurations, together with their relative economy, for decision-making in the planning and design process. The methodology is to find an optimum building configuration that gives the most profit at varying heights. Initially pure integer programming optimization was applied, but due to its expensive computation another algorithm to search for a near optimum solution was then explored. The model was tested against a known prototype condominium design in Bangkok, and the resultant configurations outlaid by the model indicate that the standing condominium plan can be improved to get higher profit. The model thus suggests a much sharper awareness of building space optimization in the design. With intelligence and pragmatism, the model can be used as a powerful tool to augment designer talent and experience, to provide better buildings with greater return on investment.