What if buildings could dance? Here at Absolute World, they do. These twisting towers, right before your eyes, are more than just condos. They’re a statement. They’re nicknamed the “Marilyn Monroe Towers.” See how they curve and sway, like the iconic actress herself? Absolute World is a testament to innovative architecture and a unique addition to Mississauga’s skyline. The Absolute World complex consists of five towers. These two, however, steal the show. Officially known as Absolute World 4 and 5, they were completed in 2012. The taller of the two reaches 56 stories and a height of 179.5 meters. That’s 589 feet of twisting steel and glass. Imagine living here, with a view that constantly shifts as the building spirals upwards. The shorter tower is no slouch either, standing at 50 stories and 161.2 meters high.
The design, a collaboration between MAD Architects and Burka Architects, was the result of an international competition held in 2004. The Beijing-based MAD Architects, led by Yansong Ma, won with their audacious vision of a dynamic, ever-changing form. Burka Architects, a local Toronto firm, partnered with MAD to bring this complex design to life. The taller tower boasts a remarkable 209-degree twist from base to top. Each floor is slightly offset from the one below, creating the illusion of movement. The shorter tower also twists, but to a lesser degree, creating a harmonious dance between the two. Think about the engineering marvel required to make a building twist like this. The structural design, by Sigmund Soudack & Associates, was a feat of ingenuity.
Absolute World has earned accolades from around the globe. In 2012, the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) recognized it as one of the world’s best new skyscrapers. It also won the prestigious Emporis Skyscraper Award that same year. Its striking design has also made it a pop culture icon. In 2025, it even graced the cover of a music album by Canadian artists PartyNextDoor and Drake. So next time you see a picture of these towers, remember the story of Absolute World. It’s a story of architectural ambition, engineering prowess, and a touch of Hollywood glamour, right here in Mississauga.