Experience the awe-inspiring world of modern architecture with the exploration of 'supertall' structures in this groundbreaking book. Published by W W Norton & Company, this fascinating work delves into the new urban age, where megastructures redefine skylines and push the limits of engineering and design. Discover the world's tallest buildings, including the Burj Khalifa, London's Shard, and the Empire State Building, as architect and expert Stefan Al takes you behind the scenes of these magnificent feats.

Unveiling the incredible innovations that enable the construction of these towering giants, the book explores advanced engineering techniques such as double-decker elevators and high-strength concrete that can withstand immense pressure, showcasing the blend of art and science involved in creating these modern marvels.

However, the book doesn't shy away from critical discussions as it examines the environmental and social implications of supertall developments across major cities like New York, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Al critically analyzes issues such as wealth inequality and carbon emissions while also highlighting the latest sustainable building innovations, including tree-covered buildings and eco-friendly skyscrapers that pave the way for a greener urban landscape.

Richly illustrated with over thirty architectural drawings, this must-read book serves as an essential resource for anyone interested in urban design, sustainability, and the future of our cities.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled. Condition: BRAND NEW. ISBN: 9781324052098. Year: 2023.

Note: Shipping for this item is free. Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery. Once your order is placed, it cannot be cancelled.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781324052098
Year: 2023
Publisher: W W Norton & Company


Description:


We are living in a new urban age, and its most tangible expression is the "supertall": megastructures that are dramatically bigger, higher, and more ambitious than any in history.

Cities around the world are racing to build the first mile-high building, stretching the limits of engineering and design as never before.

In this fascinating work of urban history and design, TED resident Stefan Al-himself an experienced architect-explores the factors that have led to this worldwide boom. He reveals the marvelous and underappreciated feats of engineering that make today's supertalls a reality, from double-decker elevators that silently move up to 50 miles per hour to the sophisticated blend of polymers and steel fibers that enables concrete to withstand 8,000 tons of pressure per square meter. Taking readersbehind the scenes of the building and design of remarkable megastructures, bothfrom the past (the Empire State Building, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower) and the present(Dubai's Burj Khalifa, London's Shard, Shanghai Tower), Al demonstrates the impact of these innovations.

Yet while the supertall is undoubtedly a testament to great technological victories, it can come at an environmental and social cost. Focusing on four global cities-London, New York, Hong Kong, and Singapore-Al examines the risks of wealth inequality, carbon emissions, and contagion that stem from supertalls. And he uncovers the latest innovations in sustainable building, from skyscrapers made of wood to tree-covered buildings, that promise to yield a better urban future.

Featuring more than thirty architectural drawings, Superta