Petronas Towers – «Petronas Towers» (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
The twin towers in Kuala Lumpur are unlike any other skyscraper – over the time since their opening in 1999, they have become a symbol of Malaysia. Also unique is the two-story bridge built between the 41st and 42nd floors – it connects the two buildings at a record height.
Taipei 101 – «Taipei 101» (Taipei, Taiwan)
The tower rising above the capital of Taiwan, designed under the guidance of architect C.Y. Lee, held the title of the world's tallest building until the opening of the Burj Khalifa in 2010. The structure is designed for the harshest weather conditions and is capable of withstanding an earthquake, which is why Taipei 101 is considered one of the safest skyscrapers in the world. The architects also embedded many symbols into its design: for example, the number of floors – 101 – signifies renewal and a new beginning.
Turning Torso – «Turning Torso» (Malmö, Sweden)
This 54-story residential building features a state-of-the-art eco-friendly design: for example, it uses renewable energy sources. The twisting silhouette of the skyscraper, according to architect Santiago Calatrava, echoes the plasticity of natural forms and the human body.
JHC – John Hancock Center (Chicago, USA)
The Chicago skyscraper, completed in 1969, became a brilliant example of structuralism in architecture and still remains one of the main elements shaping the city's skyline – even though there are many competitors.
The Shard – «The Shard» (London, United Kingdom)
Londoners did not immediately embrace Renzo Piano's daring project, but since its completion in 2012, this ultra-modern skyscraper has become very popular with locals and tourists. It houses the highest observation deck in the city, offering a bird's-eye view of the vast metropolis.
Chrysler Building – «Chrysler Building» (New York, USA)
This Manhattan skyscraper held the title of the world's tallest building for only 11 months – from 1930 to 1931. Yet it still holds an important place in the hearts of New Yorkers and architecture lovers from around the world. William Van Alen's design remains a classic example of Art Deco style, and moreover, it became the clear winner in reader preferences on the BBC Culture website.
Burj Khalifa – «Burj Khalifa» (Dubai, UAE)
The mere fact that this building is the tallest in the world (by a wide margin) is enough to include it in our list. But you cannot deny the beauty of the Burj Khalifa either: the 828-meter Dubai tower was a real breakthrough in construction and architecture and a testament to the far-reaching ambitions of its creators.
MSU – Moscow State University (Moscow, Russia)
The main building of Moscow State University is one of the seven Stalinist skyscrapers built in a recognizable monumental style. For almost 40 years, this building of Moscow University remained the tallest structure in Europe, until it was surpassed by the Frankfurt Messeturm. However, among educational institution buildings, the skyscraper on Vorobyovy Hills remains unmatched.