The important aspects of precast concrete frame design in multistory buildings are presented. These comprise component selection and design, joints, stability and integrity. The paper discusses why these items cannot be dealt with in isolation, and, contrary to popular opinion, shows that precast concrete design is an integrated process. The major structural components are slabs, beams, staircases, columns and walls. The use and versatility of these units are discussed, and the general approach to the design of non-composite and composite beams, columns and walls is given. Precast concrete frame stability is a crucial issue in multistory frame design. Adequate sway stiffness and strength, and structural integrity must be provided. It is important because both the design of the precast concrete components and the connections must be correct. The most economical and structurally efficient solution is a pin-jointed braced frame. The frame is braced against sidesway using shear walls or diagonal steel bracing. Alternatively, an unbraced frame may be designed in which the columns resist sway loading. Unbraced frames are practical only up to three stories, and braced frames up to about 20 stories.
