Elevators in skyscrapers: key design and installation considerations

Elevators are vital components of tall buildings, ensuring efficient vertical transportation for huge numbers of people. Elevator planning must begin at the earliest stages for such projects, so that it can properly integrate with the building’s design and structural systems, taking into account people flow and transportation. Understanding how a building will be used is vital, because there are fewer and fewer single-use tall buildings.

Typically, the architect creates the vision, and then we work with all the construction partners to understand the structure and present what’s possible. KONE engages during the concept design or schematic design phases, offering an evaluation of the practicalities related to the design and advising on key questions. For example, how many elevators are needed? How fast do they need to go? How do we futureproof in case the building use changes?

New elevator technology

Two-thirds of the global population is expected to be living in cities by 2050, which will mean more high-rise living is necessary. There has been rapid growth in skyscrapers in the last 10 years and this has prompted a wave of new elevator technology which is changing the possibilities for tall buildings.

As new buildings get taller, the need for lighter, faster and more stable elevator systems has emerged. This led us to develop the KONE Ultra-Rope, an innovative carbon-fibre hoisting system that can be used up to 1,000m. This technology is being used on the Jeddah Tower, which will feature 65 elevators supplied by KONE.

Prefabricated modular elevator systems are another example of new technology.

KONE has worked with Laing O’Rourke to develop a modular elevator system that has been tested on Building S5 at King’s Cross, London.

These are increasingly used in mid-rise buildings and offer faster, safer and more efficient construction.

Smart elevators

Smart elevators featuring destination control systems, artificial intelligence, and advanced materials are also transforming the industry. These technologies improve speed, energy efficiency, and capacity, making them ideal for modern skyscrapers – as well as offering benefits which can be unlocked in the data they gather.

Other innovations include minimising sway-induced discomfort and optimising space by incorporating multiple elevator systems within the same shaft. Technology such as ropeless elevators or sky bridges between shafts are potential solutions for the future.

Retrofitting elevators is a growing trend driven by urban renewal and sustainability goals. Installing new elevators in existing buildings can be challenging due to space constraints and structural limitations, but is a significant part of KONE’s business and growing year-on-year. The case for retrofitting is determined by the building’s specification and use.  

In cases where retrofitting is not feasible, refurbishing existing elevators remains a practical alternative, extending their lifespan and improving performance. 

Elevator standards and future changes

Every country has its own standards for building control, design, construction methods, environmental impact and other considerations.

In the UK, elevator design adheres to stringent standards, including BS EN 81-20 and BS EN 81-50. The Building Safety Act and changes to Building Regulations have also introduced new requirements for fire safety and emergency evacuation systems, significantly influencing elevator designs. 

Ultra-high-rise buildings can contain thousands of people, all of whom will need vertical transportation. The expectation is that this will be rapid, smooth and quiet, but we also need to consider safety, energy efficiency, reliability and cable strength. These buildings thus present design and construction challenges that will need to be carefully reviewed as we start breaking new height barriers – as we are with the Jeddah Tower.

Sascha Brozek is head of KONE major projects in Europe.