Raising Buildings: The Resilience of Elevated Structures

Abstract

Living on the Lousisana coast has always been defined by the influences of the deltaic environment, climate, and the resilience of the communities and individuals who inhabit this dynamic place. Unfortunately, a variety of factors have contributed to the continuous degradation of the coast; the land upon which people depend for inhabitation and settlement is disappearing beneath the water at an accelerated pace. In addition, flooding events have become more frequent and costly. The most common response is to elevate structures above the land in order to minimize damage and reduce risk, however, living in this condition presents unique challenges for people and communities. Current building practices and materials, including slab-on-grade construction and drywall assemblies making post-flood events more damaging and costly than necessary as well as extending the disruptions of post-flood recovery. Elevating buildings is one strategy for improving the resilience of communities, individuals and structures. Living above the land means that structures must adapt through the use of vertical circulation in the form of ramps, stairs and elevators. This chapter will address the building practices and methods employed in south Louisiana as well as impacts on the individual and collective living.