Jeddah Tower Architect Says Future Cities Must Renew Existing Buildings, Not Simply Build Taller

Jeddah Tower architect Gordon Gill has highlighted a broader vision for the future of cities, arguing that the real “hidden city” lies within millions of aging buildings that can be renewed, adapted and reused instead of being demolished and replaced. His remarks place sustainable redevelopment alongside the continuing construction of Jeddah Tower, which is planned to exceed 1,000 metres and become the world’s tallest building upon completion. The tower is currently targeting an August 2028 completion date and will include hotel, office, residential and observation spaces. Gill’s argument is that adaptive reuse can reduce construction waste, preserve communities and unlock significant urban capacity without relying entirely on new megaprojects.