Every two years, the German Museum of Architecture (DAM) introduces the world's
best high-rises from the previous two years as part of the International Highrise
Award. This year's nominees, 26 high-rises from 17 countries, were either erected
within the past two years or are now very close to completion. In recent times, the
centre stage for new high-rises has shifted from the United States to Asia.
The publication includes all of the nominated high-rises as documented with plans,
photos and building descriptions. Record heights and construction are not the
only important aspects of international high-rise construction. The projects will be
used to introduce current developments with regard to building technology, design,
but also sustainability and urban planning. Even the changing use of these towers
becomes evident in the growing number of high-rises developed not only as office
buildings, but also for mixed-function or housing purposes.
And as always, the architectural typology of the high-rise stands for the vertical
superlative, or serves as an identifying icon for contemporary metropolitan centres.
In her essay, Carol Willis (founder and director of the Skyscraper Museum in New
York City) investigates the phenomenon of so-called 'supertall' high-rises that
reach heights of 300 metres or more. Sigidur Gunnarsson (structural engineer and
professor at the Bergen School of Architecture) will add to this perspective with his
commentary on the contemporary construction systems and supporting structures
for these new skyscrapers.
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