TALL TALES
How high are the tallest buildings in the world? Take a look and see!
Published on March 27, 2024
Credit: Rohan Makhecha
Skyscrapers are the architectural legacy of modernity. Pushing the boundaries of engineering and design, these monumental structures redefined urban living and reshaped cities. From towering glass structures to spiraling wonders, skyscrapers continue to fascinate city dwellers and stand as testaments to human ingenuity.
Let’s take a tour around the world and explore 10 of the most fascinating skyscrapers out there!
Burj Khalifa
Credit: Nick Fewings
Location: Dubai, UAE
At a staggering 2,722 feet, the Burj Khalifa currently reigns as the world's tallest building. Its sleek design, inspired by the desert flower Hymenocallis as well as by Islamic architecture, features a spiraling pattern that draws the eye upward. An architectural wonder, it is built to endure the extreme conditions of the desert while offering panoramic views of the city below.
Shanghai Tower
Credit: Antonella Vilardo
Location: Shanghai, China
As the third-tallest building globally, the Shanghai Tower soars 2,073 feet into the sky. Its distinctive twisted shape not only reduces wind loads but also creates a stunning visual effect. With some of the world's fastest elevators, a mixed-use concept, and a futuristic design that focuses on high energy efficiency, the Shanghai Tower is a striking symbol of China's rapid development.
One World Trade Center
Credit: Lucas Franco
Location: New York City, USA
An emblem of resilience and rebirth, the One World Trade Center is arguably the beating heart of New York City. Reaching 1,776 feet, a deliberate homage to the year of American independence, the colossal building was also designed to be in harmony with the city’s iconic skyline. Whether seeking to understand the city's history, or simply marvel at the breathtaking views, the One World Trade Center is an unforgettable experience for visitors from around the world.
Petronas Towers
Credit: Vlad Shapochnikov
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
The breathtaking Petronas Towers in Malaysia’s capital proudly held the title of the world's tallest buildings from 1998 to 2004. But despite being surpassed, they are still a marvel of modern architecture. Their sleek design inspired by Islamic motifs incorporates steel and glass to stunning effect. The sky bridge connecting the two towers offers panoramic views of the city and is a popular tourist attraction.
Taipei 101
Credit: Jack Brind
Location: Taipei, Taiwan
The tallest building in Taiwan, Taipei 101's bold design incorporates elements of traditional Asian architecture with modern technology. Its distinctive pagoda-like structure is made to withstand typhoons and earthquakes and also to symbolize the connection between earth and sky. Its 101 floors are also deliberate, as the number represents the renewal of time, linking past and future.
Lotte World Tower
Credit: Ryan Brooklyn
Location: Seoul, South Korea
Standing 1,821 feet tall, Lotte World Tower's elegant silhouette dominates the Seoul skyline. Its design draws inspiration from traditional Korean ceramics and features cutting-edge sustainability elements. The first building in South Korea to be over 100 stories tall, light and fireworks displays are often showcased from the tower during national festivities or celebrations.
The Shard
Credit: Valentin Kremer
Location: London, UK
Formerly known as the London Bridge Tower and rising 1,016 feet above the skyline, The Shard's glass façade and iconic silhouette have become synonymous with modern London. Its characteristic pyramidal shape was designed to resemble the 18th-century London spires as well as the masts of sailing ships.
Marina Bay Sands
Credit: Andreas M
Location: Singapore
Although technically not a skyscraper by most accounts, at 650 feet, the Marina Bay Sands building is still a wonder of modern architecture. The multifaceted complex consists of three towers connected at the top by a massive rooftop terrace known as the SkyPark, which features gardens, infinity pools, and panoramic views of the city skyline.
Central Park Tower
Credit: Martti Salmi
Location: New York City, USA
Soaring 1,550 feet above Manhattan's skyline, the Central Park Tower stands as the tallest primarily residential building in the world. Designed to maximize both views and comfort, the luxurious building offers unparalleled views of Central Park and the iconic cityscape, with amenities including a private club, swimming pool, and concierge services.
Al Hamra Tower
Credit: irvin calicut, CC BY-SA 3.0
Location: Kuwait City, Kuwait
As the tallest building in Kuwait and the tallest curved concrete skyscraper in the world, the Al Hamra Tower is the central piece of Kuwait City’s skyline. Its twisting form and beautifully polished frontage make it an unforgettable landmark, with an innovative design that incorporates energy-efficient features and advanced technology to minimize reflective surface area.