Taipei 101 Certified as World's Tallest Building
March 29th, 2004
March 29th, 2004

How Long Ago?
20 years, 11 months, 15 days ago
Location
Taipei, Taiwan
Category
Technology & Innovation
People
- C.Y. Lee
- Huang Hsiang-Wen
Links & References
Tags
Taipei 101 Certified as World's Tallest Building
Taipei 101 was officially certified as the world's tallest building by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat. The building was recognized based on its topping out on July 1, 2003. Although not fully completed until December 31, 2004, the certification underscored its iconic status and height of 508 meters, making a significant mark in architectural achievements. This was a defining moment for Taiwan's skyline and global presence in high-rise architecture.
Taipei 101 reaches 508 meters in height.
Completed structure symbolizes Taiwan's progress.
Set standards for sustainable architecture worldwide.
Joins the ranks of iconic global skyscrapers.
What Happened?
The certification of Taipei 101 as the world's tallest building by the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat marked a monumental achievement in architectural history. Topped out on July 1, 2003, this skyscraper reached an impressive height of 508 meters, surpassing the previous holder, the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Though the building wouldn’t officially open until December 31, 2004, the certification recognized its completed structural height as a significant benchmark in the realm of high-rise constructions. Taipei 101, designed by architect C.Y. Lee, was meant to symbolize Taiwan’s economic progress and modernity. The tower's aesthetics drew from traditional pagoda designs, showcasing the blend of culture and innovation.The official certification event gathered various stakeholders including construction firms, governmental representatives, and architectural bodies who celebrated the milestone. The structure’s height was a subject of fascination worldwide, attracting tourists and architecture enthusiasts to Taiwan. Taipei 101 also adopted numerous green building practices which later influenced sustainable architecture, enhancing its reputation beyond just its height. This iconic landmark not only transformed the Taipei skyline but also put Taiwan on the global map as a hub of modern architecture.
Why Does it Matter?
The certification of Taipei 101 as the tallest building highlighted the advancements in engineering and architectural design. This event attracted global attention, showcasing Taiwan's ability to construct tall, iconic structures. The completion and recognition of Taipei 101 motivated other countries to pursue supertall buildings, setting new standards in design and sustainability.
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