Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper is the Devon Tower, a 50-story, 844-foot (257-meter) skyscraper. Completed in 2012, it is the tallest building in Oklahoma and the 38th-tallest building in the United States. The Devon Tower is a mixed-use building, with office space, retail space, and a restaurant on the top floor.
The Devon Tower is an important landmark in Oklahoma City and a symbol of the city’s economic growth. It is also a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming from all over the world to see the views from the observation deck on the top floor.
The Devon Tower is one of the tallest skyscrapers in the United States, and it is a major landmark in Oklahoma City. It is a symbol of the city’s economic growth and a popular tourist destination.
1. Height
The Devon Tower’s height of 844 feet (257 meters) is a defining characteristic that contributes to its status as Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper. This exceptional height offers several advantages and implications:
- Panoramic Views: The tower’s elevation provides breathtaking panoramic views of Oklahoma City and the surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy these views from the observation deck on the top floor.
- Architectural Landmark: The Devon Tower’s height makes it a prominent architectural landmark that can be seen from miles around. Its distinctive design has become synonymous with Oklahoma City’s skyline.
- Engineering Feat: Constructing a building of this height requires advanced engineering techniques and materials. The Devon Tower’s successful completion is a testament to the skill and expertise of the architects and engineers involved.
- Symbol of Economic Growth: The Devon Tower’s height is symbolic of Oklahoma City’s economic growth and prosperity. It represents the city’s ambition and its commitment to progress.
In conclusion, the height of 844 feet (257 meters) is a crucial aspect of the Devon Tower’s identity as Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper. It offers panoramic views, serves as an architectural landmark, demonstrates engineering prowess, and symbolizes the city’s economic vitality.
2. Floors
The Devon Tower, Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, boasts 50 floors, a significant aspect that contributes to its height, functionality, and overall design.
- Vertical Space Utilization: The 50 floors of the Devon Tower optimize vertical space, allowing for a large number of offices, retail spaces, and other facilities within a limited footprint on the ground. This efficient use of space is crucial in urban areas where land is scarce.
- Height and Elevation: The number of floors directly influences the height of the skyscraper. The Devon Tower’s 50 floors contribute to its impressive height of 844 feet (257 meters), making it the tallest building in Oklahoma City and a prominent landmark on the skyline.
- Functional Diversity: The 50 floors accommodate a wide range of functions, including office spaces for various businesses, retail stores on the lower levels, and a restaurant on the top floor. This diversity of uses creates a vibrant and dynamic environment within the skyscraper.
- Structural Considerations: Constructing a 50-story building requires careful structural engineering to ensure stability and withstand wind loads, seismic activity, and other external forces. The Devon Tower’s design incorporates advanced engineering techniques to meet these challenges.
In conclusion, the 50 floors of the Devon Tower are integral to its identity as Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper. They optimize space, contribute to its height, provide functional diversity, and demonstrate the advanced structural engineering involved in constructing such a high-rise building.
3. Completion
The completion of the Devon Tower in 2012 marked a significant milestone in the history of Oklahoma City’s skyline. As the city’s tallest skyscraper, the Devon Tower has become an iconic landmark and a symbol of Oklahoma City’s economic growth and development.
The tower’s completion in 2012 was the culmination of years of planning and construction. The project was led by Devon Energy, an Oklahoma City-based energy company. The tower was designed by the architectural firm Pickard Chilton, and construction was managed by the Turner Construction Company.
The Devon Tower’s completion in 2012 had a number of important implications for Oklahoma City. First, it solidified the city’s position as a major economic center in the region. The tower’s presence has attracted new businesses and investment to the city, and it has helped to create a more vibrant and dynamic downtown area.
Second, the Devon Tower’s completion has helped to raise Oklahoma City’s profile on a national and international level. The tower is now one of the most recognizable buildings in the United States, and it has been featured in numerous publications and television shows. The tower’s iconic status has helped to put Oklahoma City on the map, and it has made the city a more attractive destination for tourists and visitors.
The Devon Tower’s completion in 2012 was a major turning point for Oklahoma City. The tower has become a symbol of the city’s economic growth and development, and it has helped to raise Oklahoma City’s profile on a national and international level.
4. Architect
Pickard Chilton, an internationally renowned architectural firm, played a pivotal role in designing Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, the Devon Tower. Their expertise and innovative approach contributed significantly to the tower’s architectural significance and overall success.
- Design Concept and Vision: Pickard Chilton’s design for the Devon Tower was inspired by Oklahoma’s rich Native American heritage, incorporating elements that reflect the state’s cultural identity. The tower’s facade resembles a woven basket, symbolizing the craftsmanship and artistry of Native American tribes.
- Sustainable Design: Pickard Chilton prioritized sustainability in the design of the Devon Tower. The building is LEED-certified, incorporating energy-efficient lighting systems, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and a rainwater collection system. These features contribute to the tower’s environmental performance and reduce i
ts carbon footprint. - Structural Engineering: The Devon Tower’s height and complex design required innovative structural engineering solutions. Pickard Chilton collaborated with engineers to develop a system that withstands high winds and seismic activity. The tower’s core and exterior walls are reinforced with high-strength concrete and steel, ensuring its structural integrity.
- Urban Context: Pickard Chilton carefully considered the Devon Tower’s relationship to its surroundings. The tower’s placement and design complement the existing urban fabric while creating a new focal point for the city’s skyline. The tower’s public spaces and amenities contribute to the vibrancy of the downtown area.
In conclusion, Pickard Chilton’s involvement as the architect of Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, the Devon Tower, reflects their commitment to design excellence, sustainability, and creating structures that positively impact the urban environment.
5. Owner
Devon Energy’s ownership of Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, the Devon Tower, is a significant aspect that underscores the company’s commitment to the city and its role in shaping the city’s skyline.
- Corporate Identity and Branding: The Devon Tower serves as a prominent symbol of Devon Energy’s corporate identity. The company’s name and logo adorn the tower, creating a strong visual association between Devon Energy and Oklahoma City’s most iconic building.
- Investment in the City: Devon Energy’s ownership of the Devon Tower represents a substantial investment in Oklahoma City. The construction and maintenance of the tower contribute to the city’s economic growth and development.
- Community Involvement: Devon Energy’s involvement as the owner of the Devon Tower extends beyond the building itself. The company actively participates in community initiatives and events, demonstrating its commitment to the well-being of Oklahoma City.
- Sustainability and Innovation: Devon Energy’s ownership aligns with its commitment to sustainability and innovation. The Devon Tower is LEED-certified, showcasing the company’s dedication to environmental responsibility and cutting-edge building practices.
In conclusion, Devon Energy’s ownership of Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, the Devon Tower, reflects the company’s strong ties to the city, its commitment to economic development, and its embrace of sustainability and innovation.
6. Usage
The Devon Tower, Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, is a mixed-use building that accommodates a variety of uses, including office space, retail space, and a restaurant on the top floor. This combination of uses contributes to the tower’s overall success and enhances its value as a landmark and economic driver for the city.
The office space in the Devon Tower caters to various businesses and organizations, providing a prestigious and convenient work environment in the heart of Oklahoma City. The retail space on the lower levels offers a diverse range of shops and services, attracting customers and creating a vibrant street-level atmosphere. The restaurant on the top floor, with its panoramic views of the city, provides a unique dining experience and has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
The mixed-use nature of the Devon Tower reflects the evolving needs of modern urban environments. By combining different functions within a single building, the tower creates a dynamic and self-contained ecosystem that enhances the overall experience for tenants, visitors, and the surrounding community. This approach promotes economic growth, fosters social interaction, and contributes to a more sustainable and livable city.
7. Observation deck
The presence of an observation deck in Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, the Devon Tower, is a significant feature that adds to its appeal as a landmark and tourist attraction. Observation decks offer visitors the opportunity to experience panoramic views of the city from a unique vantage point, providing a valuable perspective on the urban landscape and its surroundings.
The observation deck in the Devon Tower is strategically located on the top floor, providing unobstructed views of Oklahoma City and beyond. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking vistas that encompass the city’s downtown core, the Oklahoma River, and the rolling hills of the surrounding countryside. The observation deck also features interactive exhibits and educational displays that provide insights into the city’s history, architecture, and cultural attractions.
The observation deck in the Devon Tower serves multiple purposes. It enhances the tower’s overall value as a tourist destination, attracting visitors who seek unique experiences and panoramic city views. The revenue generated from observation deck admissions contributes to the financial viability of the tower and supports its ongoing maintenance and operation costs. Additionally, the observation deck serves as an educational resource for locals and tourists alike, offering a deeper understanding of Oklahoma City’s urban development and architectural heritage.
8. Rank
The Devon Tower’s ranking as the 38th tallest building in the United States is a significant aspect that underscores its national prominence and architectural significance. This ranking is a testament to the tower’s exceptional height and its contribution to Oklahoma City’s skyline.
The tower’s height of 844 feet (257 meters) places it among the tallest buildings in the country. Its distinctive design, inspired by Oklahoma’s Native American heritage, has become a recognizable landmark on the national architectural scene. The tower’s placement in the top 40 tallest buildings in the United States reflects Oklahoma City’s growing stature and its position as a major economic and cultural center in the region.
The Devon Tower’s national ranking also has practical implications. It attracts attention and interest from visitors and businesses alike. The tower’s presence enhances Oklahoma City’s reputation as a modern and ambitious city, capable of undertaking and completing major architectural projects. This, in turn, contributes to the city’s economic development and growth.
In conclusion, the Devon Tower’s ranking as the 38th tallest building in the United States is a reflection of its architectural significance and a testament to Oklahoma City’s growing stature as a major economic and cultural center. This ranking has practical implications for the city’s development and contributes to its national prominence.
FAQs on Oklahoma City’s Tallest Skyscraper
This section addresses frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, the Devon Tower. These questions and answers aim to provide comprehensive and informative responses to common inquiries.
Question 1: What is the height of the Devon To
wer?
The Devon Tower stands at an impressive 844 feet (257 meters) tall, making it the 38th tallest building in the United States. Its height offers breathtaking panoramic views of Oklahoma City and its surroundings.
Question 2: How many floors does the Devon Tower have?
The Devon Tower has 50 floors, accommodating a diverse range of tenants, including offices, retail stores, and a restaurant on the top floor. This mixed-use design fosters a vibrant and dynamic environment within the skyscraper.
Question 3: When was the Devon Tower completed?
The Devon Tower was completed in 2012, marking a significant milestone in Oklahoma City’s architectural landscape. Its completion solidified the city’s position as a major economic center and raised its profile both nationally and internationally.
Question 4: Who designed the Devon Tower?
The renowned architectural firm Pickard Chilton designed the Devon Tower. Their design incorporates elements of Oklahoma’s Native American heritage, such as the woven basket-like facade, while prioritizing sustainability and structural integrity.
Question 5: Who owns the Devon Tower?
Devon Energy, an Oklahoma City-based energy company, owns the Devon Tower. Their ownership underscores the company’s commitment to the city and its role in shaping Oklahoma City’s skyline.
Question 6: What is the primary use of the Devon Tower?
The Devon Tower serves as a mixed-use building, housing offices, retail space, and a restaurant on the top floor with panoramic views. This combination enhances the tower’s value as a landmark and economic driver for the city.
These FAQs provide key insights into the Devon Tower’s height, design, history, ownership, and usage. Understanding these aspects helps appreciate the architectural significance and economic impact of Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper.
Moving on to the next article section…
Tips Related to Oklahoma City’s Tallest Skyscraper
The Devon Tower, standing tall as Oklahoma City’s architectural icon, offers valuable insights for urban development, sustainable design, and economic growth. Here are some important tips to consider:
Tip 1: Prioritize Sustainability in High-Rise Construction
The Devon Tower’s LEED certification showcases the successful integration of sustainable practices in high-rise construction. Architects and developers should embrace sustainable design principles to minimize environmental impact and promote energy efficiency.
Tip 2: Foster Mixed-Use Developments for Urban Vitality
The Devon Tower’s mixed-use design creates a vibrant urban environment with office spaces, retail stores, and dining options. Encouraging mixed-use developments can revitalize city centers and enhance the overall quality of urban life.
Tip 3: Leverage Observation Decks for Tourism and Education
The Devon Tower’s observation deck attracts visitors and provides educational opportunities. Observation decks can enhance tourism revenue and foster a deeper appreciation for a city’s architectural heritage and urban landscape.
Tip 4: Celebrate Cultural Identity through Architecture
The Devon Tower’s design incorporates elements of Oklahoma’s Native American heritage. Architects should consider how buildings can reflect a city’s unique cultural identity and create a sense of place.
Tip 5: Promote Tall Buildings as Economic Drivers
The Devon Tower’s presence has attracted businesses and investments to Oklahoma City. Tall buildings can serve as economic catalysts, stimulating job creation and urban growth.
These tips highlight the multifaceted benefits of Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, the Devon Tower. By embracing these principles, cities can enhance their urban environments, promote sustainable development, and foster economic prosperity.
In conclusion, Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper stands as a testament to the transformative power of architecture. Its design, sustainability, and economic impact offer valuable lessons for urban planning and development.
Conclusion
The exploration of Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper, the Devon Tower, reveals its architectural significance, economic impact, and sustainable design. Standing prominently in the heart of the city, the Devon Tower serves as a testament to Oklahoma City’s growth and ambition.
The tower’s innovative design, inspired by Oklahoma’s Native American heritage, showcases the power of architecture to reflect cultural identity. Its mixed-use nature fosters a vibrant urban environment, while its sustainability features demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the Devon Tower’s prominence as the 38th tallest building in the United States highlights Oklahoma City’s growing stature on the national stage.
The lessons learned from the Devon Tower’s success can guide urban planning and development efforts in cities worldwide. By embracing sustainable practices, fostering mixed-use developments, and celebrating cultural identity through architecture, we can create vibrant and thriving urban centers. Oklahoma City’s tallest skyscraper serves as a beacon of progress, inspiring us to strive for architectural excellence and economic prosperity.
