[Marilyn]

If it's supposed to be an art center, why don't you make it a little artsy and incorporate an inverse stair step, cantalever design for either the exterior or use it on the interior. The Hyatt Regency Downtown San Francisco is has a right angle triangular footprint. They used the stair step, cantalever design for the interior of the longest wall. The lobby is open all the way to the top floor. It's a very interesting design. This should be structurally challenging and very do-able. Your adviser might go for that.

Just a thought. I've been out of pure engineering too long to help with calculations, but thought I'd throw this idea out there for you to think about.

Wishing you the very best. You do seem like a very together person. YOU CAN DO IT!!!!!!!!! We're rooting for you!!!!!!