The Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, is the tallest man-made structure in North America. Located in Chicago, Illinois, the 1,451-foot-tall tower stands as a testament to the city’s architectural prowess.
The Willis Tower was originally built to be the headquarters of Sears, Roebuck and Company. Construction on the tower began in 1970 and was completed a decade later in 1980. Upon its completion, the building became the tallest structure in the world, a title it held until 1998 when the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia surpassed it.
The tower’s pillar-like design is composed of nine rectangular tubes and uses a system of exterior steel trusses to support its weight. The building is composed of nine square sections that rise from the ground and taper inwards as they reach the top. The exterior of the building is composed of bronze-tinted glass and illuminated at night in a variety of colors.
The Willis Tower is composed of 108 floors, with the 103rd floor being the highest observation deck in the western hemisphere. The 103rd floor is accessible by a set of elevators that take visitors to the Skydeck, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the city. The Skydeck has become a popular tourist destination, and has attracted millions of visitors since its opening in 1974.
The Willis Tower is a significant landmark in Chicago, and is recognized as one of the most iconic man-made structures in the world. It stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to innovation and architecture, and serves as an inspiration for future generations of architects.
