Is there a massive skyscraper that towers over the rest? Since 2009, the Burf Khalifa has towered over the competition. With a height that makes the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty look minuscule, there is quite a bit to explore when looking at the world’s tallest skyscraper.
The First Interchange
The Burj Khalifa’s reputation as a massive skyscraper has been present for the last fifteen years. Centered at the heart of Dubai’s business district, the Burj Khalifa is intended to be the crown jewel of an already bustling city.
Construction Start
Ground was first broken on the Burj Khalifa in 2004. The massive skyscraper takes design notes from Frank Lloyd Wright’s The Illinois and the Willis Tower. Adrian Smith was the chief architect for the entire project, using a tubular construction to cut down on the need for steel.
Stalled Development
The Global Recession of 2008 did bring development to a halt while more funding was sought. This was a momentary setback at best, as the exterior of the building was completed in October of 2009. Construction for the massive skyscraper was officially completed on January 1st, 2010.
Original Intent
While most massive skyscrapers serve as hubs for business, the Burj Khalifa was intended to serve as housing for residents of the business district. To this end, the many floors of the massive skyscraper are comprised of apartments, hotels, and even swimming pools.
Breaking Records
Upon its completion, the Burj Khalifa wracked up records. The previous tallest building on the planet, the Taipei 101, was dethroned. Among other accolades, the massive skyscraper serves now as the world’s largest freestanding structure. The highest fireworks display you’ll see on the planet happens every New Year’s Eve at the Burj Khalifa.
Massive Undertaking
Words cannot state just how much work went into making the Burj Khalifa. When you set out to make the world’s tallest skyscraper, some difficult work takes place. Vertical concrete pumping up to 1,988 feet occurred, not to mention making sure the lighter steel superstructure could withstand the weight of the building’s 163 floors.
Important Specs
- Height: 2,722 feet
- Architectural Style: Neo-futurism
- Completed: October 1st, 2009
- Cost: $1.5 billion
- Owner: Emaar Properties
- Floors: 154 main floors, 9 maintenance floors for 163 total
The image featured at the top of this post is ©Roxana Bashyrova/Shutterstock.com.
