Effect of Shear Wall Area Ratio on the Structural Performance of Mid-Rise and High-Rise Rc Buildings

The increasing demand for multi-storey reinforced concrete (RC) buildings has emphasized the need for efficient lateral load-resisting systems capable of withstanding seismic and wind-induced forces. Shear walls are widely recognized as one of the most effective structural components for controlling lateral displacement and improving overall stability. This study investigates the influence of varying shear wall area-to-plinth area ratios on the seismic and wind response of mid-rise (G+14) and high-rise (G+29) reinforced concrete buildings. Five structural configurations comprising a bare moment-resisting frame (MRF) and shear wall ratios of 0.75%, 1.0%, 1.5%, and 2.0% were developed in ETABS. Response Spectrum Analysis was carried out according to IS 1893:2016 for Seismic Zones III, IV, and V, while wind loading was considered as per IS 875 (Part 3):2015. Structural performance was evaluated in terms of base shear, maximum storey displacement, inter-storey drift, fundamental time period, and steel-to-concrete ratio. The results demonstrate that increased shear wall percentages considerably enhance lateral stiffness and reduce displacement and drift demands. However, higher stiffness also results in greater base shear attraction. The study identifies optimum shear wall percentages for both building categories and provides practical recommendations for achieving a balance between structural safety, serviceability, and material economy