Building up is typically the best way to maximise the density of a city. Skyscrapers can deliver the most housing for the smallest footprint. With land being in short supply in many cities and typically high demand for homes, tall residential buildings are becoming more common around the world. We want to look at this today, then if you need some help with residential architecture in London you can speak to us.

Current title holder

The world’s tallest residential building at the moment is Central Park Tower. The skyscraper in New York hit a massive milestone in 2019 when it topped out at 472.4m.

Impressively, the building took the title of tallest residential building from another skyscraper in NY; 432 Park Avenue. Topping out in 2014, it is 425.5m tall.

A third NY tower, 111 West 57th Street is also taller than the previous title holder. At 435.3m, it is the second tallest in the world at the moment.

There are plenty of impressive details about Central Park Tower. Firstly, it is the tallest pencil tower in the world. Also known as a skinny skyscraper or super thin tower, it means it has a very high slenderness ratio. Several floors of the building are a Nordstrom department store. There are 179 condos, amenity floors, and a private club.

New contenders

While Central Park Tower has the title at the moment, news from Brazil means it might not have it forever. Last month plans got approval for a new skyscraper in Balneario Camboriu, a southern coastal resort city. The plan says it could reach 544m tall.

The building, known as Triumph Tower, would fit well into the Brazilian city. It is already home to a number of skyscrapers, including several of the tallest buildings in South America. The residential tower would be the crown jewel though.

Triumph Tower is not the only project competing to take the crown. There is also the proposed Burj Binghatti Jacob & Co Residences in Dubai. The exact height is not confirmed here, but some estimate it will be over 550m.

Are you planning residential architecture in London?

Coffey Architects appreciates all the work that goes into developing beautiful buildings. It can be especially hard when it is towers and skyscrapers. There are many additional things to think about here, including ensuring the structural integrity in the face of adverse weather such as heavy winds. However, great designs and engineering expertise can bring them to life.

If you are planning residential architecture in London and want some help, you can speak to us. We can give you useful insights, recommendations, and a range of services.