Not twins, but one tower split in two

Dominique Perrault (born 1953 in Clermont-Ferrand, lives and works in Paris) is one of France's star architects. He became internationally known through the construction of the Bibliotheque Nationale de France in Paris, which was completed in 1995. In his architectural designs, whose strict formalism is often reminiscent of minimalist sculpture, he always integrates urban planning considerations.

With the DC Tower 1, currently the tallest building in Austria, Perrault has created a new landmark for Vienna. Located directly on the Danube, the narrow tower, visible from a great distance, ensures a stronger connection between the younger districts and the traditional city center. At the same time, it moves Vienna closer to the water. Austrian artist Markus Krottendorfer has captured its elegant, versatile appearance and the highly complex technological inner life in a photographic essay, highlighting the many exceptional facets of the building. The history of the origins and vision of this project, which has also been important in terms of urban development, are at the center of two discussions lead by Austrian architect journalist Christian Kuhn with Dominique Perrault and real estate developer Thomas Jakoubek.