Proposed Shift in CTBUH Height Ranking Criteria: From 'Height to Architectural Top' to 'Height to Highest Occupied Floor'

This infographic provides a visual representation of the proposed changes to skyscraper ranking criteria, suggesting a shift from measuring 'height to architectural top' to 'height to highest occupied floor'. The purpose of this change is to eliminate the incentives for including non-functional 'vanity height', which contributes unnecessarily to carbon emissions and does not enhance the usable space of buildings.

Through comparative visuals of the Petronas Towers, the infographic illustrates the current and proposed criteria side by side, highlighting the portion of the building considered as vanity height. A distinct color differentiation emphasizes the non-usable space encouraged under current practices. Accompanied by a "Why Change?" explanation box, the graphic clarifies the environmental and practical benefits of this criterion adjustment, promoting sustainability and more meaningful architectural accomplishments.

This work is based on the study: Helal, J., Trabucco, D., & Savovic, D. (2024). Embodied carbon premium for vanity height: a case for the exclusion of decorative spires in the design of tall buildings. Journal of Cleaner Production, 142334. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2024.142334