8 twisted buildings from across the world that make these cities worth a trip

Architectural marvels that mostly hog the limelight are those that are tallest, greatest, grandest, and more. However, modern architecture is no longer about rigid skyscrapers that are scraping the sky in neat, straight lines. Across the globe, architects have been going extra lengths, and are literally putting a ‘twist’ on their design,by creating spiraling, rotating, and helical towers that look like something straight out of science fiction. These twisted buildings are more than engineering marvels. Over the years, they have become popular landmarks that symbolise creativity, sustainability, and a break from the conventional skyline. Here are eight of the most fascinating twisted structures one can see around the world.

The Turning Torso, designed by Santiago Calatrava, was the world’s first twisting skyscraper when it opened in 2005. Standing at a height of 90 m, with 54 floors, it’s interesting to note that it spirals a full 90 degrees from base to top. The design of this structure has been inspired by a human body in motion, and this residential tower went on to redefine Malmö’s skyline and set the stage for twisted architecture worldwide.

When it’s about architectural drama, Dubai is not the one to stay behind. And the Cayan Tower in Dubai Marina proves it. Standing tall at 307 m, the tower rotates 90 degrees along its height, making it one of the tallest residential towers in the world. The twist isn’t just for show; it reduces wind forces on the building while giving every apartment a panoramic waterfront view.

China’s tallest building and the world’s second-tallest at 632 m, the Shanghai Tower spirals dramatically upward with a 120-degree twist. The double-glass façade reduces wind loads by 24%, saving millions in construction costs. Inside, the tower functions as a vertical city with offices, hotels, retail, and sky gardens stacked into its spiraling design.

Shaped like a giant helix, the Evolution Tower in Moscow International Business Center looks like two ribbons intertwining. Rising 246 m, the building houses offices and an event hall. Its futuristic form reflects both innovation and Russia’s embrace of contemporary design on a global scale.

Nicknamed the “Marilyn Monroe Towers” for their curvy silhouettes, the Absolute World Towers are a pair of twisting residential buildings in Ontario. One rises 179 meters and the other 161 meters, each with a 209-degree rotation. Their sculptural shape challenged the monotony of suburban skylines, making them an icon of Mississauga.

Formerly known as the Revolution Tower, the F&F Tower stands out with its emerald-green façade and corkscrew design. The 52-floor office tower rotates sharply as it rises, resembling a giant drill bit piercing the sky. Completed in 2011, it has become one of Panama City’s most recognizable landmarks.

Sustainability meets sculpture at Taipei’s Agora Garden Tower. Designed by Vincent Callebaut, the 20-floor residential tower twists 90 degrees from bottom to top, resembling a DNA strand. What makes it unique is its eco-friendly design — featuring rainwater recycling, solar panels, and gardens on every balcony. It’s a building where luxury and green living literally spiral together.

Europe’s tallest building, the Lakhta Center, towers 462 m above St. Petersburg. Its twisting glass form narrows elegantly as it rises, rotating about 90 degrees. The design minimizes wind stress and improves energy efficiency. Housing Gazprom’s headquarters, it is both a corporate symbol and an architectural landmark redefining Russia’s modern skyline.