Sample controllers for a three-dimensional smart base-isolated building benchmark problem with linear and frictional isolation system are presented in this paper. A Kalman filter is used to estimate the states based on absolute acceleration measurements. Input filters are used to better inform the controller of the spectral content of the earthquake excitations. A reduced order control-oriented model of the benchmark structure with a linear isolation system is developed. A H2/linear quadratic Gaussian controller is presented for the active case; additionally, a clipped optimal controller is presented for the semiactive case. A preliminary ‘skyhook’ semiactive controller is also presented for the benchmark problem. Magnetorheological fluid dampers are used for control in the semiactive case and ideal actuators are used for control in the active case. The focus of this phase I study is on the linear isolation system only. Computed results for the passive, semiactive, and active cases are presented. Detailed comparisons of benchmark performance indices for base-isolated structures with a nominal linear isolation system, with and without control, for a set of strong near-field earthquakes are presented. The modeling and sample control designs demonstrated in this paper can be used to form the basis for studying a wide variety of active and semiactive control strategies—to be developed by the participants in the benchmark study—for linear base-isolated buildings. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.