Shape optimisation of eccentrically loaded columns – theory and experimental verification. In shape optimisation, the external shape of the structural component is adapted to the predominant force flow. In this way, large load increases can be achieved with the same material use, or high material savings can be achieved with the same load-bearing capacity. In this paper, a shape optimisation for eccentrically loaded columns is presented, where the bending stress results from a frame effect of the load-bearing system. This is the case, for example, in edge columns of typical reinforced concrete skeleton structures, as they are usually used in residential and commercial buildings. The shape optimisation method presented in the article can be applied to columns with an arbitrary ratio of a moment-normal force loading, provided that a material failure occurs. Results for shape optimisation in the case of a stability failure have already been published separately for centrically pressed columns. The optimisation itself is carried out iteratively on a column segmented over the height under the criterion of achieving a uniform stress state in the component. With the help of an experimental check on 3.3 m high columns, the selected calculation and optimisation method could be verified. In addition to the failure loads, the concrete strains and the deformation behaviour were also analysed and evaluated at selected points of the specimen.