Supertall

“Lighter concrete, faster elevators, and even faster-growing cities are part of the formula architect Stefan Al lays out in this foundational book. Rather than describing the latest supertall skyscrapers, he shows us what makes them possible and why cities and companies think they are necessary. Mixing personal experience, history lessons, and explanations of technology that are clear and simple, Al’s book shows how and why a new generation of skyscrapers is now under construction around the world.” – Aaron Betsky, author of Architecture Matters“Stefan Al’s Supertall is a thoughtful inquiry into the new generation of skyscrapers, which are taller and more ubiquitous than their predecessors… There is a lot of rich history here, well and concisely told (and illustrated with superb line drawings, a refreshing change from the big, splashy photographs of coffee-table books).” – Paul Goldberger - New York Times Book Review“The sheer volume of calculation required to build and keep [supertalls] aloft and functioning is astounding. Al…explains these esoteric technical challenges in lucid fashion…[T]he story of what’s come about in the age of the supertall is gripping.” – Anthony Paletta - The Wall Street Journal

Stefan Al, a licensed architect who holds a PhD in urban planning from the University of California, Berkeley, is the author of Supertall and The Strip, among other works. Originally from the Netherlands, he now lives with his family in a 100–year–old house in New Jersey.