The world’s top ten tall buildings have been unveiled as part of the 22nd annual Emporis Skyscraper Award, the world’s most renowned prize for high-rise architecture.
This year, the number one spot goes to MVRDV’s Valley, a mixed-use building complex located in Amsterdam.
The complex features three peaks that switch between a sheer glass façade and protruding stone-clad windows and balconies.
The centre of the building features a publicly accessible terraced valley, and its jutting elements create a variety of unique housing units. The buildings also include offices, apartments, shops, and cultural institutes.
“Valley looks like an oasis in a business district dominated by regular office buildings. It is not only an outstanding architectural statement but also an excellent example of sustainable and climate-friendly building construction,” said the jury.
In this year’s competition, the jurors placed more emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and clever design over height in their evaluations. “Over the last years, we have seen a significant shift in how skyscrapers are designed, constructed as well as perceived by the public,” said Daniel Schuldt, Senior Manager at Emporis.
The award winners were selected by an international jury of experts out of a worldwide pool of 600 eligible high-rises. This is the second time a building in the Netherlands has managed to claim the premier spot.
Main image: Valley by MVRDV (credit: Marcel Steinbach)
Read next: BIG unveils new education complex master plan in Denmark
Are you a building professional? Sign up for a FREE MEMBERSHIP to upload news stories, post job vacancies, and connect with colleagues on our secure social feed.
