Back in Time Today
Some buildings are never completed—but that doesn’t mean they lack impact. From futuristic visions to towering religious wonders, these unfinished projects could have transformed skylines and architectural history. Here are 23 of the most fascinating structures that never reached the finish line.
1. The Tower of Babel
A legendary sky-piercer said to challenge the heavens. Its unfinished status became a metaphor for human ambition—and divine limits. This biblical story remains an enduring symbol of human overreach and the quest for the infinite.
2. La Sagrada Família
Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece has been under construction since 1882. Even unfinished, it’s already a global icon of organic architecture. Its detailed facades tell stories of nature, faith, and artistry.
3. Palace of the Soviets
Planned as a Stalinist skyscraper topped with Lenin’s statue, WWII halted it. It might have been the world’s tallest building at the time, representing Soviet ambition and ideology.
4. The Chicago Spire
A 150-story, twisting tower by Santiago Calatrava that stalled during the 2008 financial crisis. It could’ve reshaped the city’s skyline with its innovative design.
5. Ryugyong Hotel
Started in 1987, this 105-story pyramid hotel was halted for decades. It’s an eerie monument to architectural ambition gone awry, symbolizing the North Korean regime’s overreach.
6. The Jeddah Tower
Planned to be the tallest building on Earth, construction paused with only about a third complete. Its unfinished state reflects bold aspirations and challenging realities.
7. Tatlin’s Tower
A spiraling monument to modernism and revolution, this never-built structure could’ve redefined constructivist design. It was intended as a symbol of Soviet ingenuity and power.
8. National Monument to Victor Emmanuel II
Though partially completed, the full vision of this monument was never realized due to shifting political tides. It’s a testament to Italy’s complex history and evolving identity.
9. Ajuda National Palace
War and financial issues left this royal residence half-finished—what exists is still stunning. It stands as a reminder of Portugal’s royal ambitions and historical upheavals.
10. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Mile-High Illinois
A mile-tall skyscraper concept that was never built. It pushed the boundaries of what architecture could be, embodying Wright’s visionary thinking.
11. Wat Phra Dhammakaya Temple Dome
Only partially realized, this massive Buddhist complex could’ve been the largest spiritual structure in the world. Its current form is a revered pilgrimage site.
12. The Ziggurat Pyramid
An eco-city concept in pyramid form, it was supposed to house a million people. Never materialized, but still inspires with its sustainable vision.
13. Basilica di San Petronio
Meant to rival St. Peter’s in Rome, but only a fraction of the plan was built due to Vatican pushback. It remains a symbol of Bologna’s rich cultural heritage.
14. Sagrada Família Schools
Gaudí’s lesser-known project for children’s education was paused indefinitely, though parts are preserved today. It reflects his commitment to community and learning.
15. Habitat 67 Expansion
The original structure exists, but architect Moshe Safdie’s vision for massive affordable modular housing remains incomplete. It still stands as an icon of modern design.
16. Wangjing SOHO Phase 4
Zaha Hadid’s bold, flowing complex was downsized—leaving what could have been a fuller architectural statement unfulfilled. It captures the imagination with its unique design.
17. Hotel Attraction
Designed by Gaudí himself, this futuristic hotel was too radical for its time and never approved. It would have been a landmark of innovation and creativity.
18. Mamilla Pool Complex
This historic area has long been a battle between preservation and development—leaving many plans unbuilt. It represents the tension between past and present.
19. Nakagin Capsule Tower Expansion
Though iconic, plans to expand the capsule city never happened—leaving it a relic of what modular architecture might have become. It remains a symbol of futuristic innovation.
20. Madrasa of Sultan Hassan
Construction halted mid-process due to the Sultan’s death, yet even its unfinished elements are mesmerizing. It stands as a testament to the Mamluk architectural prowess.
21. O’Connell Tower
Construction started in the 19th century to honor Daniel O’Connell, but funds dried up. The base still stands today, whispering tales of Irish patriotism.
22. Marina City Phase 3
Bertrand Goldberg’s futuristic urban plan never saw its third tower built—changing the course of Chicago’s architectural rhythm. It remains a hallmark of 1960s architecture.
23. National Museum of Afghanistan
A modern expansion was started but left incomplete due to political instability. It could have marked a cultural renaissance, bridging Afghanistan’s past and future.