News: architect Maurice Shapero has released plans for a cross-shaped skyscraper on the waterfront in Liverpool, England.

At nearly 200 metres in height, the 67-storey tower would be the tallest building in the city and would contain apartments, offices and shops.

The horizontal element would cantilever out from both sides of the tower to accommodate a long and narrow restaurant with an impressive view across the city rooftops.

"All this verticality needs a counter," said Shapero, explaining the decision to add the projecting floor. "A dramatic cantilevered restaurant breaks the form high in the sky."

Discussing the religious imagery of the cruciform shape, the architect said: "This is the symbol which references one of the ultimate places in human spirituality. But should I be restricted from using it when it has come from my own investigation, imagination, conclusion?"

The building will be named the King Edward Tower, in reference to a pub that formerly occupied part of the site, and the architect plans to submit a planning application early next year.

Other unusual skyscrapers we've featured include one that will be built using ready-made Meccano-like pieces and one shaped like a pair of trousers.

See more buildings with unfortunate likenesses »
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Images are by Infinite 3D.