"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
26 Apr 2023
When it comes to iconic city skylines, the United States is often the first country that comes to mind. From the Empire State Building in New York City to the Willis Tower in Chicago, the United States is home to some of the tallest and most recognizable skyscrapers in the world. However, despite being home to some of the oldest and most architecturally rich cities in the world, Europe has relatively few skyscrapers in comparison.
There are several reasons why Europe has not embraced the skyscraper to the same extent as the United States. One of the main reasons is that many European cities have strict building height restrictions due to their historic architecture and the desire to preserve their unique cultural heritage. Many of these cities have strict zoning laws and regulations that limit the height of buildings, and this has made it difficult for developers to build tall structures.
Another reason why skyscrapers are less common in Europe is due to the cost of construction. Building a skyscraper is an expensive and complex process, and in many European cities, the cost of land and labor is much higher than in the United States. This means that building a skyscraper in Europe can be prohibitively expensive, making it difficult for developers to justify the cost.
Additionally, many European cities have efficient and well-established public transportation systems that make it easier for people to get around without relying on cars. This has meant that there is less pressure to build tall structures to accommodate a growing population.