In a world of endless possibilities, it’s easy to wonder what could have been. The Atlas of Never Built Architecture is here to provide us with a glimpse into that world. This new book explores never-built designs from over 300 global architects, giving us a peek into the creative visions of architects that never came to fruition due to various reasons like a lack of funds or political interference.
Authors Sam Lubell and Greg Goldin delve deep into the lost library of architect’s dreamy ideas that were left behind due to unforeseen circumstances. The book includes sketches and stories behind more than 300 proposed skyscrapers, hotels, casinos, government buildings, cemeteries, and even a “floating theater boat that resembles a UFO.” These proposed structures span over 100 years and 80 countries, giving readers an insight into the creative minds of architects who had big dreams but were unable to bring them to life.
One such design included in the book is the Peruri 88 tower in Jakarta, Indonesia. Unveiled in 2012, this 88-story tower was planned as a complex of Tetris-like structures that maximized vertical space. It was set to include offices, townhouses, a luxury hotel, movie theaters, a wedding chapel, and a mosque, with plans for a mall featuring escalators spanning 15 stories. However, despite its grandeur on paper, the project was eventually shelved due to financial difficulties and other unforeseen circumstances.
As we explore these never-built designs from around the world through this fascinating book’s pages, we are encouraged to consider what could have been and whether our current built environment is truly better off without these missed opportunities for innovation and creativity. We are invited to imagine alternative realities and question the fixed nature of our environment.
The Atlas of Never Built Architecture is not just for architecture enthusiasts but for anyone looking for inspiration in their own lives. It’s a reminder that sometimes great things take time and patience before they come to fruition – so keep dreaming big!
