Building core

The vertical center containing elevators, stairs, and service shafts.

In tall buildings the core often resists wind and earthquake forces. Central, offset, or multiple cores change floor efficiency, views, and circulation.

Egress, fire, and service regulations strongly constrain core planning. Vertical transport, safety, and structure precede lobby appearance.

Finding the core in plans of the Seagram, Willis, or modern supertall towers reveals the building’s logic.