World's Tallest Skyscraper Completed -- Taipei 101

[alva]

Architects use inches and feet, engineers centimeters and meters. I always wonder how the heck buildings manage to stand up in this country.

* cough mars cough *

[Combat Ingrid]

Alva:



But seriously, it's scary to think of the consequences if someone confuses kilos with pounds when building things like this

[Drogue]

Although I agree the Crysler building is beautiful, and a wonderful example of Art Deco architecture, I think the Empire State is a bit of an eyesore.

I loved the 'kissing towers' design by Norman Foster (IIRC) for Ground Zero, however it didn't get to the last 2. I think the Liebesind design is good though.

I look forward to a day when we get skyscrapers that are as beautiful as Gothic and Renaissance buildings, however I can't see that happening. The way modern trends are going, I think the Crysler building will remain, IMHO, the most beautiful skyscraper.

[dainbramaged13]

hahahah thats great

[DanS]

It's better to think that the Chrysler building will be surpassed in beauty. I would be very happy if it were, because that would mean that there are at least two very beautiful skyscrapers.

[DanS]

The reason why I like this building is that it is one of the only skyscrapers to incorporate a lot of Asian design motifs. I like to see fresh ideas--not ones that were primarily pioneered in the US. If Asians make beautiful skyscrapers, then that will inspire our own skyscraper builders.

[Snotty]

Are there any skyscrapers with parks on top?

[Hueij]

No chance the Chrysler will be surpassed. Today's western achitecture is all about function and economics. Form and style were thrown out a long time ago...

I bought a book on cast-iron architecture once (in NYC) and the bookseller got all upset and started to rant about how they were turning his city in a glass and concrete jungle. He was right

About an Asian style of building, although it's not my taste, maybe they are right about it. The whole world is beginning to look the same anywhere.

[Ted Striker]

I really like this building

Though I agree with Hueij about the twin towers Chrysler and Empire have STYLE

I think there has definitley been a return to style though in the past 10 years, things have definitley improved

The 1970s was the WORST -- damn functionality

[Drake Tungsten]

I like the building the Taiwanese put up as well. Certainly loads better than the monstrosities put up by their mainland counterparts



Ugh...

[Az]

Nah, Drake. That one actually looks great as part of the skyline.

[Drake Tungsten]

No it doesn't. You just don't notice the horrible eyesore as much when you're distracted by the other, somewhat attractive buildings.

[Az]

I do notice it. It goes very well together. really.

[mindseye]

Some incarnations of the Asian (especially Chinese)aesthetic can be perplexing to westerners. Skyscrapers, vehicles, fashions... Some of the skyscrapers in Shanghai are gorgeous. Others are odd. Some are downright hideous, to my eyes.

I think the first tower looks really good.

This one does not.

A giant bottle opener? What were they thinking?

Shanghai world financial tower.

Designed by an American firm.

[mindseye]

Originally posted by Hueij
Who cares about who has the biggest tower? It's all about beauty and in that aspect these two will never be surpassed:

I agree - in my opinion the Chrysler Building is still the most attractive!

Coincidentally, just read a few days ago I read that the breathtaking spire was originally going to be much plainer. Then ground was broke for another - taller- skyscraper (sorry, forgot which one). So, the builders of the Chrysler Tower had the marvelous spire secretly constructed inside, then hoisted into place at the last minute, regaining the "tallest building" distinction! Unfortunately, construction on the Empire State Building began before the Chrysler Buiding was completed, so its reign was a short one.