02-21-2011, 03:26 PM
i dont see any problem with isolated pads for 12 storey building as long as calculations and experience allow, for example if seismic hazard is below 5 on ritcher scale and the rock type is stable of very high density and bearing capacity. You can tie columns at ground level and intruduce shear walls to reduce stresses on columns and come up with a very light structure. Engineering is about economy and safety. Sometimes haeavy column section or very rigid structure is not safe.