ποΈπ Architectural Icon: Willis Tower (Chicago) π
Willis Tower π’ (formerly Sears Tower) = 110 stories of skyscraper glory! π Height: 442.3m (527.3m with antenna π‘) Title Holder: Worldβs tallest building (1974β1998) π Designed by: Architect Bruce Graham + structural engineer Fazlur Khan π¨π¨π·βοΈ Shape: 9 bundled square βtubesβ of varying heights π¦βsleek, minimalist, and wind-resistant! π¨ Breaking Rules: Asymmetric facades π vs. boring symmetry! Engineering Marvel π οΈ: Bundled tube structure: Steel frame + black aluminum/glass curtain walls π€π² Tapered Design: 1β50F: 9 squares (23.86m wide) π© 51β66F: Diagonal tubes removed βοΈ 67β90F: More tubes cut β cross shape β 91β110F: Final 2 tubes to the top! β¬οΈ Result: Reduced wind pressure π¬οΈ + dramatic silhouette! π Fun Facts π: Steel Used: 76,000 tons ποΈ (1.62kg/mΒ²) Efficiency: 20% less steel than NYCβs Empire State Building! π½ Wind Test: Designed for 3kPa wind pressure π¨, sways 90cm (but only moves 46cm in reality!) π Fire Safety π₯: 2 sky lobbies (Floors 33 & 66) π 5 mechanical floors π§ Tech: Smoke detectors, alarms, and sprinklers EVERYWHERE! π¨π¦ 102 elevators π: Express to 33F/66F, then switch to local lifts! Pro Tip πΈ: Visit the Skydeck (103F) for LEDGE glass boxes π±βhovering 412m above Chicago! π #ChicagoArchitecture #WillisTower #SkyscraperHistory ποΈπ