Throughout the history of architecture, numerous buildings have never been built. Often this was due to technical or economic reasons, and at other times, because people could not distinguish between fantasy and reality.
Hotel Attraction
It was designed by the Spaniard Antoni Gaudí and, in 1908, would have been the tallest building in New York at 360 meters. It consisted of a bullet-shaped central structure topped with a star, surrounded by other smaller buildings. It is unknown why the project was scrapped, but in 2003 it was considered for the reconstruction of Ground Zero in Manhattan.
The Great Dome
This building was never constructed due to the Germans' defeat. It would have had the world's largest dome, with a base diameter of 250 meters and a height of 290 meters. It was conceived by Hitler and architect Albert Speer, who were eager to display power and grandeur.
Illinois Skyscrapers
It was planned to be built in Chicago in 1956 by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, and would have stood approximately 1,610 meters tall. This type of structure presented several problems: the wind would cause significant swaying at the top of the building, since it was constructed of steel. There were safety risks for occupants in the event of a fire, as well as insufficient space for the elevators needed to reach the highest floors. Furthermore, it was not economically viable.
The Pyramid of the Megacity of Shimuzi
This impressive project consists of a massive pyramid approximately 2,000 meters tall that would be located in Tokyo Bay. It was intended to be 12 times larger than the Pyramid of Giza, housing within it residences, schools, offices, parks, sports stadiums… and even 24 skyscrapers, each 80 stories tall.
It was seen as a good solution to the lack of space in one of the most populous cities on the planet, as it could house up to 750,000 people. The reason it has not yet been built is the lack of suitable materials to support such a structure.
Triangulo Tower
This glass tower was intended to be built in Paris, with a height of 180 meters and a budget of 520 million euros. The building was designed by Swiss architects Jacques Herzog and Pierre de Meuron. The Paris City Council rejected the project in a vote of 83 against and 78 in favor.
Fourth Grace
Designed by architect Will Alsop, its construction was planned as part of Liverpool’s celebrations as the European Capital of Culture in 2008. Construction was halted in 2004 due to excessive costs.
