Construction of the World’s Tallest Building Resumes – Latest Updates

The Jeddah Tower, formerly known as the Kingdom Tower, is set to become the world’s tallest skyscraper by 2028. Designed by Adrian Smith + Gill Gordon Architecture, this iconic structure in Saudi Arabia has officially resumed construction after a hiatus since 2018. The developer, Kingdom Holding Company, made the significant announcement at a ceremony last week, marking a new chapter in architectural history.

Upcoming Skyscrapers Around the World

In the realm of architecture, 10 major skyscrapers are expected to reach completion this year, including Albania’s Downtown One Tirana with its striking pixelated facade. The Henderson in Hong Kong, designed by Zaha Hadid Architects, is another notable project underway on one of the world’s most expensive plots. Additionally, the US is gearing up for the construction of Legend’s Tower in Oklahoma City, poised to become America’s next tallest building.

Architectural Highlights and Industry Insights

Marina Tabassum, a Bangladeshi architect, has been named the designer of the 2025 Serpentine Pavilion in the UK, a tribute to Zaha Hadid’s legacy. Tabassum’s design, named A Capsule in Time, features a lightweight timber structure that encapsulates the essence of temporary pavilions at the Serpentine Gallery in Kensington Gardens. On a more sobering note, a survey on working conditions in the architecture and design industry revealed that one in five professionals are contemplating leaving due to issues like high workloads and inadequate pay.

Justin Shubow, President of the National Civic Art Society, shared his insights with Dezeen on Donald Trump’s executive order promoting classical architecture in federal civic projects. Despite concerns from the American Institute of Architects, Shubow believes the industry’s reaction may be overstated. In the realm of design, Hyundai unveiled concept designs for electric rickshaws as a sustainable urban transportation solution, and Beijing announced plans for a groundbreaking half marathon involving humanoid robots.

Moreover, Boom Supersonic achieved a milestone by successfully testing the XB-1 prototype for supersonic flight above California’s Mojave Desert. Looking ahead, readers are invited to vote for the most significant building of the 21st century, following the conclusion of the 21st-Century Architecture: 25 Years 25 Buildings series. Finally, popular projects featured this week include a multi-generational home in India, woodland cottages by Nendo, and a Menorca farmhouse transformed into a holiday retreat.

This week on Dezeen encapsulates the latest developments in the world of architecture and design, offering a glimpse into the innovative projects and industry trends shaping our built environment. Stay informed with our newsletters to stay abreast of the most compelling stories and emerging talents in the field.