The document presents results from an experimental study of load bearing capacity and settlement of shallow foundations with different vertical cross-sectional shapes, including rectangular, wedge, and T-shapes. Testing was conducted on three different modeled subsoil conditions. The results show that foundations with rectangular shapes derive most of their load resistance from soil beneath the base, while wedge and T-shaped foundations distribute loads both beneath and along the vertical stems through the soil. Foundations with wedge and T-shapes can help distribute structural loads to deeper soil layers, especially when stronger layers underlie weaker ones.