The Buildings That Will Make News in 2013

Architizer previews the year ahead in global architecture. From the restoration of the Manhattan skyline to a temporary cathedral made of cardboard, the website looks at the projects that will heal, house, and astound in 2013.

2 minute read

January 4, 2013, 10:00 AM PST

By Jonathan Nettler @nettsj


While one might quibble with the significance of some of their selections (is a lollipop-looking observation tower for Phoenix the most meaningful project by BIG going forward next year?), there's no doubt the 10 projects identified by the editors at Architizer are sure to be the subject of much discussion in 2013. A least one enduring trend - the opening of splashy new museums and museum expansions - seems set to continue (the list includes three such projects), despite predictions of the end of that era.  

Other projects of interest include:

One World Trade Center - "After a decade of intense debate, multiple delays, and questionable design revisions, One World Trade Center will finally peak at 1,776 feet to become the country’s tallest tower. The exteriors are expected to be completed in 2013, and the structure’s controversial stripped-back spire to be hoisted into place in the same time. (The building isn’t schedule for to open until 2014.) When that happens, the Manhattan skyline will have been restored, so to speak, with 1 WTC serving as a visual counterbalance to the magnetic pull of the Empire State Building in Midtown."

Shigeru Ban’s Cardboard Cathedral - "The church, which just broke ground, replaces the 1864 Christchurch Cathedral, torn down following extensive damages during a Februrary 2011 earthquake. Ban’s cathedral is intended to stand for just 10 years, long enough to find a more permanent replacement, though according to the BBC, the architect hopes his design catches on with the public and is granted permanent status."

Wednesday, January 2, 2013 in Architizer

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Logo for Planetizen Federal Action Tracker with black and white image of U.S. Capitol with water ripple overlay.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker

A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

April 30, 2025 - Diana Ionescu

Close-up on Canadian flag with Canada Parliament building blurred in background.

Canada vs. Kamala: Whose Liberal Housing Platform Comes Out on Top?

As Canada votes for a new Prime Minister, what can America learn from the leading liberal candidate of its neighbor to the north?

April 28, 2025 - Benjamin Schneider

Person in yellow safety suit and white helmet kneels to examine water samples outdoors on a lake shore.

USGS Water Science Centers Targeted for Closure

If their work is suspended, states could lose a valuable resource for monitoring, understanding, and managing water resources.

May 1, 2025 - Inside Climate News

View of cars in traffic from behind with visible tailpipe emissions

House Moves to Rescind California’s Emissions Standards

The state has been allowed to set its own emissions goals, including a mandate to transition to electric or zero-emissions vehicles by 2035.

May 5 - Streetsblog California

View of Portland skyline with green trees in foreground.

Portland Proposal Would Suspend Development Fees to Spur Housing Construction

Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson announced their policy plan Thursday, with the goal to jumpstart housing construction.

May 5 - Oregon Capital Chronicle

Honolulu Community College building.

Honolulu Community College Celebrates Culture and Sustainability

Honolulu Community College brought together more than 320 students, staff, and community members for a day of Hawaiian cultural activities, music, and sustainability-focused learning at its annual Hoʻolauleʻa celebration.

May 5 - University of Hawai'i News

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.

Planning for Universal Design

Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.

Senior Manager Operations, Urban Planning

New York City School Construction Authority

Building Inspector

Village of Glen Ellyn

Manager of Model Development

Central Transportation Planning Staff/Boston Region MPO