Observe These Renowned Skyscrapers
- Joe Lim
- Apr 26
- 3 min read
A look at five of the most important skyscrapers as we celebrate Skyscraper Appreciation Day on 10 August.
August 10 is recognized as Skyscraper Appreciation Day. Indeed, these iconic towers symbolize towns and nations worldwide. We commend the iconic designs of these buildings, appreciating their remarkable architecture and the exceptional architects responsible for them.
Luxurious Skyscraper
The Burj Khalifa, inaugurated in 2010, epitomizes architectural ingenuity and human accomplishment. This iconic skyscraper, conceived by Adrian Smith of the architectural firm SOM (Skidmore, Owings & Merrill), dominates the Dubai skyline. At a height of 828 meters (2,722 feet), it is the tallest human-made structure globally. The Burj Khalifa features a sleek, contemporary design, characterized by setbacks that reduce wind load. The façade features a unique glass and steel design. The Armani Hotel, together with offices and luxurious villas, is located within the Burj Khalifa, a testament to modern engineering and design excellence.
Defying Heights and Convention
The remarkable Shanghai Tower, a feat of modern architectural brilliance, is situated in the heart of Shanghai's Lujiazui district. This 632-meter-tall skyscraper, built by the esteemed international firm Gensler, redefines urban living. It is the world's second-tallest edifice, finished in 2015. Its distinctive winding shape minimizes wind loads and offers stunning panoramic vistas, both functionally and artistically. The 128-story edifice accommodates workplaces, cultural centers, and a luxury five-star hotel. Shanghai Tower exemplifies the harmonious coexistence of urban architecture and environmental consciousness through its advanced sustainability features and double-skin facade.
Symbol of Resilience and Hope
One World Trade Center, which towers over the Manhattan skyline, epitomizes resilience and renewal. This 541-meter-tall edifice was designed in 2014 by architect David Childs of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill. Its design is a synthesis of innovation and commemoration, emerging from the hallowed site of the original World Trade Centre. The tower incorporates a robust concrete core to enhance safety and integrate energy-efficient elements such as advanced heating and cooling systems. The monument's height symbolizes the year of the American Declaration of Independence. One World Trade Center symbolizes a future of strength and unity while honoring history.
Asia’s Iconic Skyscraper
The Petronas Towers, designed in 1998 by Argentine architect Cesar Pelli, are an impressive duo of skyscrapers symbolizing Kuala Lumpur's modernism. Until 2004, these twin towers were the tallest edifices in the world. Each structure comprises 88 floors and reaches a height of 452 meters (1,483 feet), linked by a double-decker Skybridge. The contemporary steel and glass façade of the Towers, which mirrors Malaysia's cultural identity, is influenced by Islamic motifs. The Petronas Towers, exemplifying a unique postmodern design and symbolizing the zenith of 20th-century architectural achievement, accommodate workplaces and retail spaces while demonstrating a seamless integration of aesthetics and engineering excellence.
London’s Architectural Pride
The Shard is an architectural and engineering masterpiece, symbolizing modern London. This 95-story glass tower, designed by architect Renzo Piano, punctuates the city skyline with its elegant form. The Shard, completed in 2012 and standing at 1,016 feet (310 meters), is the highest edifice in Western Europe and the United Kingdom. The distinctive pyramid-shaped structure, featuring a state-of-the-art glass façade, mirrors both the sky and the surrounding urban landscape. The Shard seamlessly merges functionality, aesthetics, and urban integration in its top levels, which accommodate offices, luxurious residences, a hotel, and a public viewing gallery.
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