Antony Wood’s relationship with CTBUH transcended mere contribution—it was his life’s work. Under his leadership between 2004 and 2024 as Executive Director, CEO, and finally President, it grew from a two-person office to a global authority on tall buildings and urban development, establishing international height measurement standards and hosting landmark conferences across the globe.

I first met Antony in 2004, before he assumed his role. Recognizing complementary personalities united by strong work ethics, Alastair Collins, CEO of Davis Langdon and Seah Global Board, introduced us. Over a Chinese meal in London, we discovered shared passions for professional excellence and tall buildings.

I regularly say that Antony is the most driven person I have ever met, and I’ve worked with some pretty driven people. He enhances that drive with a real passion for his subject, a sharp intellect, a quick mind, an incredible attention to detail and an unwavering ability to say what he is thinking. It makes him a great researcher and strategist as well as a keen editor and reviewer. His presentation style—sometimes provocative, always engaging—stems from comprehensive knowledge and natural salesmanship. 

His achievements were remarkable: establishing the Research Division that produced over 40 technical reports, launching the Academic Program that connected 26 universities worldwide, and creating the CTBUH Journal—now Vertical Urbanism. He pioneered the Awards Program recognizing excellence in tall buildings and developed the Council’s database, which became the global authority on tall building data. 

He established conferences as a major international initiative, expanding CTBUH’s footprint from Abu Dhabi and Costa Rica to Sydney and Shenzhen. Our members now make active contributions in many cities and in every continent. 

His early recognition of the urban habitat’s importance has materialized in initiatives like the City Advocacy Forum. Looking ahead, CTBUH’s expanding advocacy for sustainable vertical urbanism across professional communities, governments, and public spheres will stand as a testament to Antony’s enduring legacy.

- Steve Watts

This letter can be found in CTBUH's flagship magazine Vertical Urbanism, Issue 2.