Buttressed core

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A buttressed core is a structural system for high buildings, consisting of a hexagonal core reinforced by three buttresses that form a Y shape.

The buttressed core supports itself both laterally and torsionally. It also eliminates the need for column transfers, and moves loads in a smooth path from the building's top into its foundations.

The buttressed core was invented by the Skidmore, Owings & Merrill engineer Bill Baker. ^[1] It was first used in Tower Palace III in Seoul but its ability to support higher buildings than ever before was first demonstrated in Burj Khalifa in Dubai.^[2]

• Tower Palace III in Seoul, South Korea, completed in 2004
• Burj Khalifa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, completed in 2009
• Crown Las Vegas in Las Vegas, USA (never built)
• Jeddah Tower in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, construction restarted in January 2025, estimated to be completed in 2028 or 2029.

The buttressed core structural system offers several advantages over traditional methods:

• Stability: It provides excellent resistance to lateral forces, such as wind and seismic activities, enhancing the overall stability of the building.
• Efficiency: The system allows for a more efficient use of materials, reducing the overall weight and cost of the structure.
• Flexibility: It enables architects and engineers to design taller and more slender buildings without compromising on structural integrity.
• Aesthetics: The Y-shaped design offers unique architectural possibilities, contributing to the visual appeal of skyscrapers.

Despite its benefits, the buttressed core system also has some drawbacks:

• Complexity: The design and construction process can be more complex and require specialized knowledge and skills.
• Cost: Initial costs may be higher due to the need for precise engineering and high-quality materials.

• Core (architecture)