Oklahoma City's Towering Triumph: The Devon Tower, Oklahoma's Tallest Skyscraper

Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper is the Devon Tower, a 50-story, 844-foot (257 m) skyscraper in downtown Oklahoma City.

The Devon Tower is the tallest building in Oklahoma and the 22nd-tallest building in the United States. It is also the tallest building west of the Mississippi River and the tallest building outside of a major coastal city.

The Devon Tower was completed in 2012 and is named after Devon Energy, the Oklahoma City-based energy company that is the tower’s primary tenant.

1. Height

The Devon Tower is the tallest skyscraper in Oklahoma City and the 22nd tallest building in the United States. Its height of 844 feet (257 m) is a major contributing factor to its status as the tallest building in Oklahoma.

The height of the Devon Tower provides several advantages. First, it offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding area. Second, it allows the building to accommodate more tenants and office space. Third, it makes the building a more recognizable landmark and a symbol of the city’s growth and prosperity.

The Devon Tower’s height was also a major engineering challenge. The building is located in an earthquake zone, so it had to be designed to withstand strong earthquakes. The building’s foundation is made of reinforced concrete and steel, and it has a steel frame that is designed to flex during an earthquake. The building also has a tuned mass damper, which is a large pendulum that helps to reduce the building’s sway during high winds.

The Devon Tower is a testament to the engineering and architectural skills of the people who designed and built it. Its height is a major contributing factor to its status as the tallest building in Oklahoma and a symbol of the city’s growth and prosperity.

2. Floors

The Devon Tower, as the tallest skyscraper in Oklahoma City, boasts a grand total of 50 floors. These floors serve a multitude of purposes, contributing significantly to the building’s impressive height and functionality.

• Office Space: The majority of the Devon Tower’s floors are dedicated to office space, accommodating various businesses and organizations. These offices benefit from the building’s prime location in downtown Oklahoma City and its unparalleled views of the city.
• Amenities: The Devon Tower also features several floors dedicated to amenities for tenants and visitors. These include a fitness center, a conference center, and a restaurant. These amenities provide convenience and enhance the overall experience of working and visiting the building.
• Observatory: One of the highlights of the Devon Tower is its observation deck, located on the 50th floor. This deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of Oklahoma City and the surrounding area, attracting tourists and locals alike.
• Mechanical Floors: In addition to the occupied floors, the Devon Tower also has several mechanical floors. These floors house the building’s mechanical systems, such as elevators, HVAC, and electrical equipment. These systems are essential for the efficient and safe operation of the building.

The 50 floors of the Devon Tower contribute to its status as the tallest skyscraper in Oklahoma City, providing ample space for businesses, amenities, and breathtaking views. These floors are a testament to the building’s grandeur and its commitment to providing a comprehensive and functional environment for its tenants and visitors.

3. Location

The Devon Tower’s location in downtown Oklahoma City is a key factor in its status as the city’s tallest skyscraper. Downtown Oklahoma City is the central business district and the economic hub of the city. It is home to many of the city’s largest corporations, financial institutions, and government buildings.

The Devon Tower’s location in downtown Oklahoma City provides several advantages. First, it offers easy access to transportation, with major highways and public transportation options nearby. Second, it is within walking distance of many of the city’s best restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Third, it is located in a safe and secure area of the city.

The Devon Tower’s location in downtown Oklahoma City has also had a positive impact on the city’s economy. The building has attracted new businesses to the area and has helped to create jobs. It has also helped to revitalize downtown Oklahoma City and make it a more vibrant and attractive place to live and work.

The Devon Tower is a prime example of how a skyscraper can be a catalyst for economic development and urban renewal. Its location in downtown Oklahoma City has played a key role in its success.

4. Architect

The Devon Tower, Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, was designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), a world-renowned architecture firm known for its innovative and sustainable designs.

KPF’s design for the Devon Tower is a testament to the firm’s commitment to creating buildings that are both beautiful and functional. The tower’s sleek glass facade and aerodynamic shape reduce wind resistance and energy consumption, while the building’s interior is designed to maximize natural light and provide stunning views of the city.

KPF’s expertise in high-rise design was essential to the success of the Devon Tower. The firm’s engineers and architects worked closely together to develop a design that would meet the challenges of building a skyscraper in an earthquake zone. The tower’s steel frame is designed to withstand strong earthquakes, and the building also has a tuned mass damper, which helps to reduce the building’s sway during high winds.

The Devon Tower is a shining example of KPF’s commitment to design excellence. The tower is not only the tallest building in Oklahoma City, but it is also one of the most sustainable and technologically advanced buildings in the world.

5. Construction

The construction of the Devon Tower, Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, spanned from 2009 to 2012. This period was marked by significant advancements in engineering and architectural techniques, all of which contributed to the tower’s impressive height and innovative design.

• Engineering Innovations: The Devon Tower’s construction showcased groundbreaking engineering techniques to ensure its stability and resilience in Oklahoma’s seismic zone. The use of a steel frame and a tuned mass damper allowed the building to withstand strong earthquakes and high winds.
• Sustainable Design: Sustainability was a key consideration throughout the construction process. The tower’s glass facade and aerodynamic shape reduce wind resistance and energy consumption, contributing to its LEED Gold certification.
• Collaboration and Expertise: The Devon Tower’s construction involved the collaboration of architects, engineers, and construction workers, each bringing their expertise to the project. This collaborative effort resulted in a building that met the highest standards of design, engineering, and safety.
• Economic Impact: The construction of the Devon Tower had a significant economic impact on Oklahoma City. It created jobs, stimulated the local economy, and contributed to the city’s growing skyline.

The Devon Tower’s construction period was a time of innovation, collaboration, and progress. The building’s completion in 2012 marked a new era for Oklahoma City, solidifying its position as a thriving and modern metropolis.

6. Owner

The connection between Devon Energy and the Devon Tower, Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, goes beyond mere ownership. Devon Energy is not just the building’s owner but also the driving force behind its conception, design, and construction.

• Corporate Identity: The Devon Tower serves as a physical embodiment of Devon Energy’s corporate identity. Its towering height and distinctive design reflect the company’s stature as a leading player in the energy industry.
• Investment in the City: The construction of the Devon Tower was a significant investment by Devon Energy in Oklahoma City. The building has become an iconic landmark, contributing to the city’s skyline and economic development.
• Commitment to Sustainability: Devon Energy’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the design of the Devon Tower. The building’s glass facade and aerodynamic shape minimize energy consumption, contributing to its LEED Gold certification.
• Community Involvement: Devon Energy actively supports the Oklahoma City community through the Devon Tower. The building hosts public events, art exhibitions, and educational programs, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among city residents.

In conclusion, Devon Energy’s ownership of the Devon Tower is not merely a financial arrangement; it is a testament to the company’s deep connection to Oklahoma City and its commitment to progress and sustainability. The Devon Tower stands as a symbol of the mutually beneficial relationship between a corporation and its community.

7. Primary Tenant

The strong connection between Devon Energy and the Devon Tower, Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, extends beyond the building’s ownership. Devon Energy is not only the owner but also the primary tenant, occupying a significant portion of the tower’s office space.

Devon Energy’s presence as the primary tenant plays a crucial role in the building’s success and vitality. Here are a few key points:

• Financial Stability: As the primary tenant, Devon Energy provides a stable source of income for the building’s operation and maintenance. This financial stability allows the building’s management to invest in upgrades, renovations, and amenities, ensuring that the Devon Tower remains a desirable and competitive address for tenants.
• Prestige and Recognition: Having Devon Energy as the primary tenant enhances the Devon Tower’s prestige and recognition. Devon Energy is a Fortune 500 company and a leading player in the energy industry. Its association with the building attracts other reputable businesses and organizations, reinforcing the Devon Tower’s status as a premier business address.
• Commitment to Oklahoma City: Devon Energy’s decision to make the Devon Tower its primary headquarters demonstrates the company’s commitment to Oklahoma City. This commitment fosters a sense of pride and loyalty among employees and the community, contributing to the city’s economic growth and stability.

In conclusion, the connection between Devon Energy and the Devon Tower is mutually beneficial. Devon Energy benefits from a prestigious and convenient headquarters, while the Devon Tower gains financial stability, recognition, and a strong corporate identity. This symbiotic relationship contributes to the success and prominence of Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper.

8. Cost

The $750 million cost of the Devon Tower, Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, is a reflection of the building’s ambitious design, innovative engineering, and commitment to sustainability.

The tower’s height, standing at 844 feet (257 m) with 50 floors, required significant investment in materials and construction expertise. The use of a steel frame and a tuned mass damper to withstand strong earthquakes and high winds added to the complexity and cost of the project.

In addition, the tower’s LEED Gold certification reflects its commitment to sustainable design. The glass facade and aerodynamic shape reduce wind resistance and energy consumption, resulting in lower operating costs over time.

• Engineering Innovation: The Devon Tower’s design incorporates cutting-edge engineering techniques to ensure its structural integrity and stability. The use of high-strength steel and a tuned mass damper contributes to the building’s ability to withstand strong winds and earthquakes, increasing its safety and longevity.
• Sustainable Design: The building’s design prioritizes sustainability, aiming to minimize its environmental impact. The glass facade and aerodynamic shape reduce energy consumption, while the use of natural materials and energy-efficient systems contribute to the tower’s LEED Gold certification.
• Economic Impact: The construction of the Devon Tower generated significant economic activity in Oklahoma City. The project created jobs, stimulated the local economy, and contributed to the city’s growing skyline.
• Symbol of Progress: The Devon Tower stands as a symbol of Oklahoma City’s progress and ambition. Its impressive height and innovative design have made it an iconic landmark, attracting visitors and businesses alike.

In conclusion, the $750 million cost of the Devon Tower reflects the building’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic development. As Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, the tower stands as a testament to the city’s growth and its aspiration to be a modern and progressive metropolis.

9. LEED Certification

The Devon Tower, Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, has achieved LEED Gold certification, a globally recognized symbol of sustainability and environmental responsibility in building design and construction. This certification underscores the building’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact and promoting the well-being of its occupants.

• Sustainable Design Features: The Devon Tower incorporates various sustainable design strategies, such as a high-performance glass facade that maximizes natural light while minimizing heat gain, and a rainwater harvesting system that reduces water consumption. These features contribute to the building’s overall energy efficiency and environmental friendliness.
• Energy Efficiency: The building’s energy-efficient systems and lighting reduce its energy consumption, resulting in lower operating costs and a smaller carbon footprint. The use of LED lighting throughout the tower further enhances its energy efficiency.
• Indoor Environmental Quality: The Devon Tower prioritizes the health and well-being of its occupants by providing ample natural light, fresh air ventilation, and low-emitting materials. These measures create a comfortable and healthy indoor environment, which can improve productivity and reduce absenteeism.
• Water Conservation: The building’s water-saving fixtures and rainwater harvesting system significantly reduce its water consumption. This focus on water conservation helps preserve this precious resource and promotes environmental sustainability.

The Devon Tower’s LEED Gold certification demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By incorporating innovative green building practices, the tower sets a high standard for responsible and eco-conscious construction in Oklahoma City and beyond.

FAQs about Oklahoma City’s Tallest Skyscraper

The Devon Tower, Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, has captured public attention and sparked inquiries. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about this architectural marvel:

Question 1: What is the height of the Devon Tower?

Answer: The Devon Tower stands at an impressive 844 feet (257 meters) tall, making it the tallest building in Oklahoma and the 22nd-tallest building in the United States.

Question 2: How many floors does the Devon Tower have?

Answer: The Devon Tower has 50 floors, providing ample space for offices, amenities, and breathtaking views of Oklahoma City.

Question 3: When was the Devon Tower built?

Answer: The Devon Tower was constructed between 2009 and 2012, showcasing innovative engineering and architectural techniques during its construction.

Question 4: Who owns the Devon Tower?

Answer: Devon Energy, a leading energy company headquartered in Oklahoma City, is the proud owner of the Devon Tower.

Question 5: What is the cost of the Devon Tower?

Answer: The Devon Tower was built at a cost of $750 million, a testament to its ambitious design, cutting-edge engineering, and commitment to sustainability.

Question 6: Does the Devon Tower have a LEED certification?

Answer: Yes, the Devon Tower has achieved LEED Gold certification, recognizing its commitment to sustainable design and environmental responsibility.

In conclusion, the Devon Tower stands as a symbol of Oklahoma City’s progress and aspiration, offering stunning views, modern amenities, and a commitment to sustainability. Its impressive height, innovative design, and LEED Gold certification make it a landmark of architectural achievement and environmental consciousness.

For further exploration, the following section delves into the architectural significance and impact of Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper.

Tips for Visiting Oklahoma City’s Tallest Skyscraper

The Devon Tower, Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. To make the most of your visit, consider these helpful tips:

Tip 1: Advance PlanningPurchase tickets online or make reservations for guided tours in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak season.Tip 2: Allow Ample Time Set aside sufficient time for your visit, as the Devon Tower offers various attractions, including an observation deck, exhibits, and retail stores.Tip 3: Dress AppropriatelyThe observation deck can be chilly, so dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes, as there are stairs to climb.Tip 4: Arrive Early for Tours Arrive 15-30 minutes before your scheduled tour time to allow for check-in and security screening.Tip 5: Capture Panoramic ViewsThe observation deck provides breathtaking 360-degree views of Oklahoma City and the surrounding area. Bring a camera to capture the stunning vistas.Tip 6: Learn about the Tower’s History Take advantage of the interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the Devon Tower’s unique design and construction.Tip 7: Enjoy Amenities and DiningThe Devon Tower offers a restaurant and a gift shop on the lower levels. Consider dining or purchasing souvenirs to enhance your visit.Tip 8: Explore Downtown Oklahoma City After visiting the Devon Tower, explore the vibrant downtown area, which offers a variety of attractions, restaurants, and shops within walking distance.By following these tips, you can maximize your experience at Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper and create lasting memories of this architectural marvel.

In conclusion, the Devon Tower not only offers breathtaking views but also provides a glimpse into Oklahoma City’s rich history and modern architectural achievements. Your visit to this iconic skyscraper promises to be an enriching and unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, the Devon Tower, stands as a testament to the city’s growth, ambition, and commitment to sustainability. Its impressive height, innovative engineering, and LEED Gold certification make it a landmark of architectural achievement and environmental consciousness.

The Devon Tower offers not only breathtaking views but also valuable insights into the history and modern architectural landscape of Oklahoma City. Its observation deck, interactive exhibits, and amenities provide a comprehensive and engaging experience for visitors.

As Oklahoma City continues to evolve, the Devon Tower will undoubtedly remain a symbol of progress and aspiration. It serves as a reminder that even in the heart of the Midwest, architectural marvels can be found, inspiring future generations to dream big and strive for excellence.