Earthquake is one of the most common natural disasters frequently encountered by cities. Earthquake resistant building design has a critical importance against earthquakes. This design approach should be handled in a wide range from the construction of buildings in accordance with engineering standards to interior space solutions.
In the recovery process of earthquake-stricken cities, it is not only sufficient to ensure the physical resilience of buildings, but also urban planning strategies and sustainable design principles are integral parts of post-earthquake urban design. While the first year of the February 6 earthquake in our country has passed, we are still trying to heal the wounds of that day. We remember the losses with deep sorrow. In order to take more conscious steps in the aftermath of this disaster, here are some key elements that should be taken into consideration in post-earthquake urban design to create a safe environment.
Urban Planning and Reconstruction
Earthquakes can severely affect the existing urban fabric, so urban planning strategies are of great importance. In the reconstruction process, the positioning of buildings, their functions, road networks and public spaces should be planned to maximize safety as well as function.
Green and Sustainable Design
Adopting a sustainable approach to environmental protection and resource use can increase the resilience of cities to potential future earthquakes or natural disaster risks. Applying these principles also allows cities to optimize livability and safety, striking a balance between aesthetics and function.
Reconfiguring Public Spaces
Public spaces are key in post-earthquake urban design to enable community gathering and recovery. Parks, squares and walkways encourage social interaction and serve as gathering points for emergencies.
Innovative Approaches to Earthquake Resistant Building Design
Earthquake resistant building design requires buildings to be constructed in accordance with engineering standards. Buildings that are earthquake resistant but whose interior solutions are not designed in accordance with seismic risks are likely to harm their users. Therefore, it is extremely important to consider non-structural elements that have a great impact on human safety in the design process of buildings. Thus, not only structural durability but also the safety of users should be maximized.
Seismic suspended ceiling systems are one of the most important non-structural elements that play an important role in human safety. These systems are carefully designed in accordance with the calculations of the seismic movements of the earthquake. Seismic suspended ceiling systems are equipped with fixed and sliding bearings that allow the ceiling to move flexibly during shaking without jamming. Thus, these systems offer enhanced durability to meet safety needs during an earthquake.
Partition wall systems divide interior spaces and take on the load-bearing task. However, in some cases these walls can increase the total load of the building. This causes the building to become statically risky. Partition wall systems play an important role in seismic design. These systems impose less total load on buildings than masonry and create less stress during earthquakes.
In conclusion, urban design after earthquakes shapes not only the physical structure of cities, but also their social and economic structures. A safe, sustainable and community-oriented urban design not only reduces earthquake risk but also makes cities more resilient and livable. Therefore, it is critical that post-earthquake urban design is handled with a multidisciplinary approach and involves the participation of all stakeholders.
