Supertall: How the World's Tallest Buildings Are Reshaping Our Cities and Our Lives

The "supertall" is a new urban age expression of megastructures that are bigger, higher, and more ambitious than ever before. TED Resident Stefan Al explores the advancements in engineering, design, and data science that have led to this worldwide boom, including technological innovations in cement, wind resistance, elevator design, and air-conditioning. He also examines the risks of wealth inequality, carbon emissions, and contagion and argues for a more sustainable, resilient, and equitable built environment for everyone.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2022
Publisher: WW Norton & Co

We are witnessing the emergence of a new urban era, characterized by the construction of awe-inspiring megastructures known as "supertalls." These colossal structures surpass all previous records in terms of size, height, and ambition, marking a significant milestone in architectural history. In his captivating TED Talk, Stefan Al, an accomplished architect with extensive experience in designing some of the world's largest buildings, delves into the advancements in engineering, design, and data science that have fueled this global boom.

Al begins by providing historical examples of remarkable skyscrapers, such as the Empire State Building, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Eiffel Tower, highlighting the craftsmanship and engineering prowess that went into their construction. He then transitions to present-day examples, including Dubai's Burj Khalifa, London's Shard, and Shanghai Tower, showcasing the latest technological innovations that have made these structures possible.

Al explores the ingenious technological advancements in cement, wind resistance, elevator design, and air-conditioning that have enabled the construction of supertalls. He explains how these innovations have addressed the challenges of building structures of such magnitude, such as stability, structural integrity, and energy efficiency.

However, Al also raises important concerns about the risks associated with supertalls. He discusses the issue of wealth inequality, as these megastructures often serve as symbols of luxury and exclusivity, leaving marginalized communities behind. He also emphasizes the impact of carbon emissions on the environment and the need for sustainable building practices to mitigate these effects.

Furthermore, Al explores the potential for contagion in supertalls, as they can become hubs for economic activity and attract large numbers of people. He argues that the design and management of these structures should prioritize the well-being and safety of residents and visitors, ensuring that they are resilient in the face of natural disasters and other unforeseen events.

In conclusion, Stefan Al's TED Talk provides a fascinating insight into the world of supertalls, highlighting the advancements in engineering, design, and data science that have enabled their construction. At the same time, it raises important concerns about wealth inequality, carbon emissions, and the need for a more sustainable and equitable built environment. By advocating for a more balanced approach to urban development, we can create cities that are not only visually stunning but also resilient, sustainable, and inclusive for all.

Weight: 556g
Dimension: 161 x 239 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781324006411