Why do commercial buildings have high ceilings?

Question

I notice that in buildings like libraries, offices, stores, etc, that the ceilings are always higher than what you would normally see in a house. It seems like so much wasted space up there. Is there a specific purpose for making the ceilings higher?

Answer 1

Because having a low ceiling in a commercial place could be seen as discriminating against really tall people who would be forced to duck when walking in.

Answer 2

In addition to the two previous answers, it is a security reason. By having the ceiling high allow the engineers to place bright lights that will cover a lot more space compared to a lower ceiling that will allow more shadow in different corners around the facility. Also the height plays a good factor also when it comes to place security cameras. Most cameras has the capability to focus and zoom on objects; the higher the ceiling, the fewer cameras is needed. Beside by having the camera installed very high, not only stop burglars who would attempt to cover the camera with objects or with their shadow, but also give the security team the advantage of better vision on individuals and objects in every corner of the store on the same screen.

Answer 3

usually it is to run cable and fire breaks, for retail it is for marketing.