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Partricular features of overpassing local optima and providing near-optimal soultion in practical time has led researchers to apply metaheuristics in several engineering problems. Optimal design of diagrids as one of the most efficient structural systems in tall buildings has been concerned here. Jaya algorithm as a recent paramter-less optimization method is employed to solve the problem using a set of available sections. Furthermore, passive congregation is embedded in Jaya without adding any extra control parameters. Applyig the method in a number of real-size structural examples including diagrids, exhibits performance improvement by the new hybrid algorithm with respect to Jaya.