The Revitalist

In Philadelphia, Walnut Street Capital, a development company, has commissioned Kohn Pedersen Fox architects to build the Center City Tower, what could be the tallest building in America and the second tallest in the world. Amidst fierce competition, cities such as Shanghai and Hong Kong threaten to strip Philadelphia of this title though. Currently, Dubai is building a structure which will surpass even Taipei’s 1,670 ft. tower--the tallest in the world.

In the new modernist equation, height seems to equal strength, solidarity, fortitude—everything that symbolizes power. As China tries to compete on the world stage, their buildings are becoming taller and more eye-catching, be it good or bad. Everywhere, cities are crawling up into the sky and claiming “unlimited” vertical real estate.

Still, Philadelphia may have one claim to fame. Their 1,500 ft tower will attempt LEED Gold Certification. With gardens on two floors, this megalith may be somewhat livable. The structure will house offices, retail space, and a hotel.