In 2012 The Absolute Towers were named as being the best tall buildings in the Americas. A group of architects and engineers from around the world chose the best tall buildings in four regional categories. Some of the criteria used during the seliction process included innovation, sustainability and design. The towers are located in Toronto, Canada in a fast growing suburb named Mississauga. The towers were designed by a Chinese architect named Yansong Ma. These are residential buildings that are 50 stories high. Because of the curvaceous shape of the buildings locals have given them the nickname ‘Marilyn Munroe.’
The developers of the site Fernbrook Homes and Cityzen Developement Group, wanted to ensure that the buildings were very distinct as they felt that the area lacked an iconic and recognisable landmark. In order to achieve this they decided to do something different. They sponsered an international competition to find the best possible design. This was the first competition of it’s kind that had been launched for approximately 40 years and the response was fantastic. Over six hundred expresssions of interest and ninety-two designs were received. The winning design captured the imagination of the judges and the public with it’s distinct shape and illusion of movement.