Every year it seems another "world's tallest building" is planned or completed, signalling its city's prominence as a modern Mecca of industry and civilisation. As proven by this compendium of the best in high-rise architecture from the past two years, sustainability, energy, cost efficiency and user-friendly design can distinguish a run-of-the-mill skyscraper from a landmark building. Through photographs, illustrations and architectural drawings, this collection of magnificent structures focuses on the evolution of high-rise architecture away from the classic office building and towards mixed use projects that will shape the appearance and liveability of cities around the world.