Diagrid

For the grid computing network, see DiaGrid (distributed computing network).

Base of the Swiss Re building at 30 St Mary Axe

Diagrid (a portmanteau of diagonal grid) is a design for constructing large buildings with steel that creates triangular structures with diagonal support beams. It requires less structural steel than a conventional steel frame. Hearst Tower in New York City, designed by Sir Norman Foster, reportedly uses 21 percent less steel than a standard design. The Diagrid also obviates the need for large corner columns and provides a better distribution of load in the case of a compromised building. Another building designed by Sir Norman Foster, 30 St Mary Axe, known as "the Gherkin", also makes use of this structural system.

Buildings utilizing diagrid

• Hearst Tower (New York City)
• 30 St Mary Axe - Swiss Re building ("the Gherkin"), London, England
• CCTV Headquarters in Beijing, China
• The Bow, Calgary, Canada
• Seattle Central Library, Seattle, Washington
• Capital Gate, Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate
• Guangzhou International Finance Center, Guangzhou, China
• The first design for the Freedom Tower at the World Trade Center site in New York, New York included the use of a diagrid perimeter.