The World’s Most Astounding Skyscrapers

Source: Mimoa, http://www.mimoa.eu/images/19380_l.jpg

Source: Wikimedia, http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5d/UOB_re.jpg

Built to reflect the increasing computerization of banking, architect Sumet Jumsai created this unique design for the Bank of Asia in 1986. The two antennas of the head of the robot serve as lightning rods and communication equipment.

Source: Zeo Spot, http://zeospot.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/The-O-14-Tower-Corner-Building-Architecture-Design-920×1380.jpg

Despite being 102 m (335 ft) tall and comprising 23 floors, the O-14 building in Dubai has very few structural columns thanks to the 40 cm thick fluid concrete facade that also acts as a ventilation system by allowing warm air to rise and cool air to come in from below.

Source: Deviantart, http://zeospot.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/The-O-14-Tower-Corner-Building-Architecture-Design-920×1380.jpg

Source: Sustainable Chicago, http://www.sustainable-chicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Aqua-012.jpg

Inspired by striated limestone, Jeanne Gang of Studio Gang Architects designed this 86 story, mixed use skyscraper in Chicago.  Reaching 859 ft (262 m), it is currently the tallest building in the world whose lead architect was a woman. It is also a very bird-friendly building; the complex’s exterior structure helps them avoid crashing into windows.

Source: Tumblr, http://25.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m390da4xgO1rsflcyo1_1280.png