liftkernen

Liftkernen, or the elevator core, is the central vertical structure in a building that houses the elevators and often stairs and ancillary services. It provides the main vertical circulation route and frequently functions as a structural core, contributing to lateral stability against wind and seismic forces. The liftkernen typically comprises one or more elevator shafts, machine rooms, electrical risers, ventilation ducts, fire stairs, and refuge areas, all enclosed within a reinforced concrete or steel framework.

Location and layout play a key role in efficiency and safety. In tall buildings, placing the liftkernen near the center minimizes travel distance to all floors and supports open floor plates. The core can be designed as a single block or as multiple interconnected cores that share loads and provide redundancy for safety. Its position also influences architectural expression, floor plate geometry, and façade design.

Structural role and integration are central to its design. As a shear core, the liftkernen helps resist lateral loads and may be integrated with other structural elements such as perimeter walls or braced frames. In some designs, the core is the primary structural system, while in others it works in conjunction with a separate structural skeleton.

Construction and variants vary by project. Concrete cores are common for fire resistance and robustness in high-rise construction, while steel or composite cores can offer faster construction and lighter weight. Some buildings integrate additional services or secondary cores to increase capacity, redundancy, and safety.

In English, the term is often called elevator core or lift core; liftkernen reflects Scandinavian usage. It remains a fundamental element in the planning, safety, and performance of tall buildings.