To simulate the seismic vulnerabilities observed, the most critical features of current design practice in accordance with the traditional force-based approach prescribed in the national seismic code have been synthesized. Results from representative case studies are discussed as abackground to the experimental program conducted. The building stock considered consists of 650 industrial facilities built between 1960 and 2010. The structural layouts,determined on the basis of field surveys of pre-code warehouses located in Tuscany, Emilia Romagna, and Piedmont have been redesigned in accordance with the current seismic code.