The Curse of the 13th Floor

The number 13 might be Taylor Swift’s favorite number, but for most, it still carries superstitious and unlucky connotations.

Take a look at the elevator buttons in a tall building, and you might notice a peculiar absence: the 13th floor. In fact, there might just be a button for “12A” to mark the floor between 12 and 14 instead. This omission is not due to a construction oversight or an architectural blunder – rather, it might be a manifestation of a superstition deeply ingrained in building design. The absence of the 13th floor is a curious phenomenon that reflects the influence of cultural beliefs on the built environment.

The superstition surrounding the number 13, known as triskaidekaphobia (say that five-times fast), has ancient roots. It's often associated with various cultural and religious beliefs, with the number acquiring a reputation for bringing misfortune and bad luck. This superstition has permeated various aspects of society, and it has real implications. One study found that apartments located on the 13th floor of a building sold 18% less often than those on other floors.

While the omission of the 13th floor is a common practice in Western countries, it's not a universal phenomenon. In China, the number four is considered unlucky due to its phonetic similarity to the word for 'death.' As a result, you may find buildings that avoid the use of the number four, much like the avoidance of the 13th floor in Western contexts.

The absence of the 13th floor in Western building design is a fascinating intersection of cultural superstitions and architectural practices. Whether rooted in ancient beliefs or perpetuated by contemporary sensibilities, the omission serves as a reminder of the profound influence that cultural traditions can exert on even the most modern and functional aspects of our urban landscape.