What major advantage does a hydraulic elevator have regarding building design?

A major advantage of a hydraulic elevator in terms of building design is that it requires less structural support compared to other types of elevators, such as traction elevators. This is primarily due to the way hydraulic elevators function. They use a hydraulic fluid to lift the elevator car through a cylinder, which can be installed without the need for a large pit or extensive overhead structural support.

This reduced need for structural support allows for more flexibility in building design, especially in smaller or mid-rise structures where the loads and stresses on the building's framework can be minimized. Additionally, hydraulic systems do not require the heavy machinery and sheaves needed for traction systems, which can further lessen the impact on the building's structural requirements. As a result, architects and engineers can take advantage of this simplicity and ease of installation when planning a building's layout and design.