soft-story buildings

A soft-story building is one with a weak or open ground floor, often featuring large windows, parking spaces, or open areas without solid walls. This design creates a comparatively weaker level that is less capable of supporting forces during an earthquake or strong winds. Because of this vulnerability, soft-story buildings are at higher risk of collapse or severe damage in seismic events. Strengthening or retrofitting such structures involves adding support, walls, or braces to improve stability and ensure safety during natural hazards.