Petronas Towers

They were the tallest buildings in the world between 1998 and 2005

The Petronas Towers are located in Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia also known as the Petrona Twin Towers they were the tallest buildings in the world between 1998 and 2005 and to the present day are the tallest twin towers in the world. Along with the Kuala Lumpur Tower, they are a landmark of Kuala Lumpur and Malaysia. They were designed by architect Cesar Pelli in a distinctive postmodern style. The planning began in January 1992, excavation of the site in March 1993 and the construction of the structure itself started in April 1994. 3 years after construction began first members of Petronas personnel moved in. It was officially opened by Malaysia’s Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir bin Mohamad on 31st August 1999.

The Malaysian government specified the building be completed in 6 years and as a result 2 consortiums were hired to ensure the deadline was met. They were constructed with super high strength reinforced concrete becuase of the vast cost of importing steel. It is more effective than steel in sway reduction, however it is much heavier than a comparable steel building. It is supported by 23-by-23m concrete cases and other ring of widelt spaced super columns, the towers use a sophisicated structural system accomodating its slender profile.

**Did you know?**They have a double decker skybridge across the two towers on 41st/42nd floors it is the highest two story bridge in ther world. Beneath the towers are a shopping mall and Petronas Philharmonic Hal, the home of the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra.