A pair of Canadian skyscrapers have been dubbed the “Marilyn Monroe” towers due to their shapely form. In Abu Dhabi, twin towers are shielded from the sun by computer-controlled shading screens. Architect Antony Wood discusses features of some tall buildings that make them standouts across the world.

You can see photos of all of the skyscrapers named the Best Tall Buildings of 2012 by The Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitatas in our slideshow.