01 / Introduction

Cities across the world have undergone major change in recent decades as populations have urbanised and globalisation has spread people and money geographically, with buildings becoming taller, smarter and more mixed-use.

Toronto and London are examples of established cities whose skylines have developed dramatically over the last 20 years or so, for different reasons and in different ways. Their “before and after” photographs over this period show remarkable development. This article explores the drivers for vertical densification in each location, their trends in design and procurement, and their respective cost drivers. It includes summary cost models for a high-rise commercial office tower in both cities.

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