The DAM’s research in this year confirmed the ongoing trend seen in favor of mixed-use high-rises, a form of tall building that since 2014 has repeatedly been in evidence among the IHRA finalists. What were in the past special features such as buildings completely clad in greenery or the construction of clusters of towers have long since become part of the new normal. As a result of the lack of suitable construction sites and the growing eco-awareness, the focus in high-rise construction is increasingly on the use of existing buildings.
While the majority of tall buildings continue to be erected in China, followed by the USA and Australia, at present South America, including Argentina and Brasil as well as Singapore have emerged as exciting hubs of high-rise architecture.
In the final instance, 30 projects from 12 different countries were nominated for the long list of the International High-Rise Award 2026/27, represented on five continents.
For the jury, the focus was on the question of what role the high-rise of the future will play. It was agreed that – apart from aesthetics and function – the skyscraper’s ability to ‘be a good neighbour’ is of fundamental importance. Does it contribute to its surroundings and how does it enrich them? Does it benefit the city and its residents?
The jury members agreed that the key challenges in high-rise construction lie in the need for green spaces, higher building density and the maximum utilisation of existing buildings. The task facing architects and town planners in the future is to combine all three aspects.
The award has been organized jointly by the City of Frankfurt/Main, Deutsches Architekturmuseum (DAM) and DekaBank since 22 years.