The settlement performance of a raft supporting a 27-storey hotel on estuarine deposits in Durban

The raft analysis and design, site investigation and choice of material parameters were descriptionbed, as well as the subsequent monitoring of its settlement performance. Levelling studs and a magnetic borehole extensometer were installed to monitor raft settlements and compression of particular soil horizons. The maximum settlement measured over five years to April 1988 was 36 mm. The key parameters in raft design were discussed. These included soil parameters, applied loading, contact pressure distribution, stress distribution with depth below the raft, relative raft stiffness and time-dependent settlement.