Rather than reinforcing stratification and hierarchical systems, the skyscraper needs to go beyond vertical dominance and explore spatial qualities that allow for greater social interaction and cohesion. Looking back at 20 years of exploration of alternative models for the skyscraper, this presentation examines four projects of the past (now realized) and four projects of the future (current state of planning and development), through four overarching topics relevant to tall buildings and the future of our cities.