Jeddah Tower and the Future of Supertall Engineering Featured in Newsweek

Managing Principal John Peronto tells Newsweek that the future of supertall skyscrapers will be shaped by new materials, smarter construction methods, and tighter project coordination, opening the door to towers that rise far beyond today’s height limits. 

In the article, Peronto points to Jeddah Tower as proof that engineering continues to expand what is possible. Set to reach more than 1,000 meters, the tower will become the world’s tallest building when complete. Peronto says the industry can engineer solutions for towers that may one day double or even triple that height. But he also notes that the biggest challenges now extend beyond structure to constructability, logistics, and the practical question of how tall buildings need to be. 

Peronto also explains that evolving concrete technologies and other material advances could reshape future megatall building projects, even as cities weigh sustainability, density, and long-term usefulness. He suggests the conversation is no longer just about how high we can build, but also why and where taller buildings make sense.

Thornton Tomasetti is providing structural engineering services for Jeddah Tower to Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill Architecture, combining bespoke high-performance designs with advanced structural systems and materials. The work is being delivered in close coordination with the project team, including Jeddah Economic Company, Dar, Saudi Binladin Group (SBG), Turner International, Langan Engineering & Environmental Services, and RWDI.

Connect with us to discuss structural engineering approaches for tall, complex and technically demanding buildings