Elevators are one of the most important inventions ever. They make moving up and down buildings easy, save time, and are safe and fast. With more people living and working in tall buildings, elevators are now essential in places with 15 to 20 floors.
But did you know that elevator manufacturers care about more than just the engineering? Everything from the music to the mirrors is carefully planned out.
Why Elevators Have Mirrors: The Surprising Reason
In the early days of skyscrapers, people started using elevators more. But they often complained that elevators were too slow.
Elevator companies wanted to fix this. Building faster and safer elevators was possible but very expensive. An engineer realized that the problem was not the speed itself but the passengers’ perception of the speed. This insight led to a new approach: focusing on the passenger experience rather than just the machinery.
The Role of Mirrors in Elevators
After much research, mirrors were added to elevators. Here’s why:
- Sense of Security: Have you ever felt uneasy in an elevator with strangers? Mirrors help you see what others are doing, making you feel safer and more alert to any potential threats. In Japan, it’s mandatory to have mirrors in elevators to help wheelchair users easily get in and out.
- Reducing Anxiety and Claustrophobia: Many people feel claustrophobic in small spaces like elevators. Mirrors make the space look larger and less cramped, easing the fear of being confined.
- Keeping You Distracted: Engineers found that people felt elevators were slower when they had nothing to do but stare at the walls. Mirrors keep you distracted, so the ride feels faster and less stressful.
Next time you’re in an elevator, and you find yourself fixing your hair or taking a selfie, remember it’s all part of a clever strategy by elevator companies to make you feel more comfortable.