High-rise construction has been experiencing a genuine renaissance for some time now. And where expansion at ground level is complicated and expensive, the only way is up. But what is state-of-the-art in high-rise construction? This question is answered by a look at the list of finalists for the International Highrise Award, which in 2020 comprises three buildings in Europe and two in Asia.

Buildings are still thought of almost exclusively from a human perspective. There are only a few small oases for other species - an insect hotel in the back of the garden or a beehive on the city roof. What is possible when whole ecosystems are integrated right from the start is shown by a planned residential building for the New York district of Nolita: it is to provide a home not only for people but also for monarch butterflies. BASF helped develop the special facade.

Urban planners, architects, politicians and residents all agree that cities need more greenery. There are numerous approaches to this. Green façades, roof gardens and the targeted redevelopment of industrial wastelands, to which New York owes its Highline so popular with locals and tourists alike. But what if it’s not just about creating pockets of greenery amid pavement, steel and glass? Urban farming is going a step further, for it aims to bring food production into the city.

The renowned Pritzker Prize was again awarded in Chicago at the beginning of March. This year the highest international award for architecture went to the two Irish women Yvonne Farrell and Shelley McNamara from Grafton Architects. Our picture gallery provides an insight into their work.