Which building geometry enhances earthquake resistance?

The geometry of a building plays a crucial role in its performance during an earthquake, and small, round, square, or rectangular shapes are considered to enhance earthquake resistance effectively. These shapes distribute structural loads more evenly and provide greater stability compared to more complex geometries.

Square and rectangular shapes are particularly beneficial because they have a simpler load path and allow for uniform stress distribution. This uniformity helps prevent localized failures that could lead to a collapse during seismic events. Additionally, round shapes can help mitigate the effects of torsion that might occur during an earthquake, further contributing to the building's stability.

In contrast, curved shapes with high ceilings may introduce complexities in load distribution and can create areas of vulnerability. Irregular polygons can lead to unpredictable stress concentrations which are not as optimal for seismic performance. Tall structures with slender profiles typically possess a higher risk of swaying and overturning in response to seismic forces, making them less favorable for earthquake resistance.