1. College of Construction Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun 130026, China; 2. Design Institute of Jilin Architectural and Civil Engineering Institute, Changchun 130021, China

The finite element method was used for analysis of raft foundation design in high-rise building. Compared with other conventional methods, this method is more adapted to the practical condition since both superstructure stiffness and soil conditions were considered in calculation. The calculation results by example show that the base reaction is more uniform and the maximum reaction decreases obviously. Accordingly, the raft foundation design is more economic without any loss of security for high-rise building.