The Space Between: Urban Places, Public Spaces & Tall Buildings

An output of the CTBUH Urban Habitat / Urban Design Committee

Since the launch of the CTBUH Sustainability Working Group's pioneering guide on Natural Ventilation in High-Rise Office Buildings in 2012, a series of Technical Guides have paved the way for designing the next generation of sustainable skyscrapers. These publications respond to the urgent need posed by rapid urbanization and escalating climate change, shaping the future of our cities.

As urban populations burgeon worldwide, from the developing world to the sun-soaked cities of the West, the challenge of accommodating new inhabitants looms large. The solution, increasingly acknowledged, lies in embracing greater urban density to mitigate energy consumption and combat climate change. Yet, the transition to vertical density poses complex questions for cities worldwide, from established skyscraper hubs like New York to burgeoning metropolises like Shanghai.

This Technical Guide explores the pivotal role of open spaces in high-rise urban environments, offering case studies and best practices to enhance the quality of public realms. By reimagining how tall buildings engage with the street level, we aim to foster vibrant communities and sustainable urban habitats.

As our cities evolve, this guide invites readers to reflect on the critical factors shaping high-quality public spaces and to join the conversation on Sustainable Vertical Urbanism. Together, let's build a future where skyscrapers not only rise towards the sky but also enrich the lives of those who inhabit them.