Abstract
This study presents the structural design of a three-storey steel-framed parking building located within the premises of Eulogio "Amang" Rodriguez Institute of Science and Technology (EARIST), Manila Campus. The project was conceptualized in response to the increasing demand for organized and accessible parking brought about by the continuous growth in the number of students, faculty members, and administrative personnel. The study aims to provide an innovative, structurally sound, and space-efficient solution to the campus's parking inadequacies by maximizing vertical space through steel construction.
To achieve this, the research involved a comprehensive process that began with site evaluation and feasibility analysis, followed by load determination, including dead loads, live loads, wind loads, and seismic forces. These were analyzed in accordance with the latest edition of the National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP 2015) to ensure compliance with national building safety standards. The structural behavior of the building under various loading conditions was simulated using STAAD.Pro, a widely recognized software for structural engineering analysis and design. This helped validate the performance of the steel frame system and provided accurate stress distribution, displacement values, and load path behavior.
The proposed design utilizes steel members such as I-beams, H-beams, and C-channels, selected for their high strength-to-weight ratio, ease of installation, and flexibility in construction. The layout includes a dedicated ground floor for buses and private vehicles, and upper floors exclusively for motorcycle
parking. Additionally, the structure integrates a straight ramp system, a single staircase/emergency exit, and utility rooms on each level to meet functional and safety requirements. Chevron bracing systems were adopted to enhance lateral stability and increase resistance against seismic and wind loads.
One of the key contributions of this study is the demonstration of how structural steel can serve as an effective material for vertical expansion in space-constrained urban environments.
The project emphasizes the advantages of steel in terms of construction speed, modularity, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, the use of 3D modeling via SketchUp and 2D drafting using AutoCAD allowed for a fully coordinated visualization of the building, facilitating clearer communication among stakeholders and ensuring practical constructability.
The results of the analysis confirm that the proposed steel-framed structure meets all required safety and usability standards, offering a robust and scalable design solution for educational institutions facing similar challenges. Beyond addressing parking shortages, the structure contributes to better campus organization, improved traffic flow, and enhanced safety. This study is expected to serve as a model for future infrastructure developments not only within EARIST but also in other schools and urban campuses across the country that aim to improve land utilization through efficient structural solutions.
