The article discusses a new design method for rigid pile composite foundations that focuses on controlling settlement. By analyzing the relationship between cushion thickness, soil stiffness, and pile-soil stress ratio, the researchers developed a method that optimizes loads on piles and soil to minimize settlement. This method considers the interaction between piles and soil, resulting in a more efficient and reliable design process. The approach involves calculating stress-settlement curves for both piles and soil, then combining them to determine the settlement curve for the composite foundation. The practical application of this method in a project showed close agreement between calculated and measured settlement values, demonstrating the effectiveness of the design approach.