Analysis of Costs and Benefits of Tall Buildings

Abstract

The paper evaluates the cost-benefit parameters of tall residential buildings 10 to 40 stories high, as compared with 5 to 7 story high conventional buildings. Two viewpoints are examined: those of the developer and of the dweller. The paper explains the methodology employed in the evaluation and examines the following parameters: the costs of construction, land, financing, and risk; the costs during use; and also the intangible impacts of tall buildings on scenery, open spaces, safety, accessibility, and other factors. Conclusions are presented, and their applicability under different conditions is discussed.