The soil resisting mechanism for piles is often represented by a static or dynamic Winkler-type spring. The present paper proposes two models for analysis and design of pile-supported building structures. The first-type model is a continuum model which deals with the governing differential equation directly and enables the, introduction of the one-dimensional wave propagation theory. The second-type model is a finite-element model enabling the introduction of the response spectrum method. The accuracy, of these models is clarified through the comparison in terms of transfer functions and time histories. The maximum seismic response of the models to the ground motion defined at the engineering bedrock surface as an acceleration response spectrum is evaluated by the response spectrum method in terms of complex modal quantities. The stiffness design for a specified maximum interstory drift and a pile stress ratio (maximum pile stress/allowable stress) is obtained by regarding the lowest natural circular frequency of the fixed-base model and the pile diameter as principal parameters.