Cities in the Sky: The Quest to Build the World's Tallest Skyscrapers By Jason M. Barr

"Cities in the Sky" by Jason Barr provides a captivating exploration into the global phenomenon of skyscrapers, tracing their evolution, impact, and enduring appeal across the world's greatest metropolises. As one of the foremost experts on the economics of skyscrapers, Barr delves into the motivations behind the construction of these towering structures, despite controversies surrounding their costs, shadows, and ostentatious designs.

The book spans iconic skyscrapers from the Empire State Building to the Shanghai Tower, detailing the architectural and engineering innovations that have driven their construction. Barr elucidates how skyscrapers are financed, why they are economically viable investments, and how they transform city skylines. He examines the historical contexts behind the proliferation of skyscrapers in American cities post-World War II and explores contrasting urban policies such as London's early ban on skyscrapers and its later embrace in the 21st century.

Barr's narrative extends globally, from Hong Kong's dense skyscraper clusters to China's "skyscraper fever" and Dubai's ambitious Burj Khalifa, offering insights into the cultural, economic, and political forces that drive cities to build ever taller. The book addresses both the positive and negative impacts of vertical urbanism, making it essential reading for urbanists, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the future of urban design.

"Cities in the Sky" not only chronicles the past and present of skyscrapers but also speculates on their future trajectory, questioning whether cities worldwide will continue their upward expansion. It blends historical analysis with forward-looking perspectives, presenting a comprehensive view of how skyscrapers shape urban landscapes and contribute to the evolving identity of modern cities. 📚❤️