Impact of Building Height on Seismic Response, Economic Viability, Environmental Performance and Social Well-being in Earthquake-Prone Türkiye

İngilizce (OpenAlex)

This study presents a comprehensive comparative evaluation of high-rise and low-rise building typologies in Türkiye’s seismically active regions, addressing their seismic behavior, economic viability, environmental footprint, and socio-psychological impacts. Utilizing Finite Element Method (FEM) simulations and Life Cycle Cost Analysis (LCCA), the research integrates structural modeling with long-term performance metrics, supported by generalized data derived from the 2023 Kahramanmaraş earthquake and national statistical sources. In accordance with TBDY-2018, high-rise buildings are defined as those exceeding 15 stories or 60 meters in height, while low-rise buildings typically fall below this threshold. The analysis indicates that, under normalized seismic loading conditions, low-rise buildings exhibit lower inter-story drift and base shear demands, reflecting different dynamic responses. Economically, high-rise developments are associated with 20–30% higher life-cycle costs, primarily due to maintenance, vertical transportation systems, and energy-intensive infrastructure requirements. From an environmental perspective, high-rise structures consume approximately 30% more operational energy and emit up to 35% more CO₂ over their lifespan, attributed to mechanical system dependence and higher embodied carbon in construction materials. Additionally, socio-psychological assessments reveal that high-rise living often correlates with increased social isolation, reduced neighborhood interaction, and adverse effects on mental well-being, whereas low-rise environments tend to support stronger community ties. While recognizing the inherent design and regulatory distinctions between these typologies, this study employs harmonized analytical methods to derive context-specific insights, offering guidance for urban planners and policymakers seeking to align seismic safety with sustainable, livable development strategies.