In this work innovative hybrid coupled shear walls (HCSW) are considered, their design is discussed, their efficiency and limitations evaluated by means of nonlinear static (pushover) analysis. Different numbers of storeys, wall geometries and design assumptions are studied in order to give an overview of situations of interest in European seismic prone areas. The design of an experimental test regarding the performance of the connection of a seismic link embedded in a concrete shear wall is presented. This study is part of a larger research project named INNO-HYCO (INNOvative HYbrid and COmposite steel-concrete structural solutions for building in seismic area) funded by the European Commission