![King Edward Tower by Maurice Shapero](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_King-Edward-Tower_1sq.jpg)
Cross-shaped skyscraper planned for Liverpool
News: architect Maurice Shapero has released plans for a cross-shaped skyscraper on the waterfront in Liverpool, England.
![King Edward Tower by Maurice Shapero King Edward Tower by Maurice Shapero](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_King-Edward-Tower_2.jpg)
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.
![King Edward Tower by Maurice Shapero King Edward Tower by Maurice Shapero](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_King-Edward-Tower_3.jpg)
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.
![King Edward Tower by Maurice Shapero King Edward Tower by Maurice Shapero](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_King-Edward-Tower_4.jpg)
"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."
![King Edward Tower by Maurice Shapero King Edward Tower by Maurice Shapero](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2012/10/dezeen_King-Edward-Tower_5.jpg)
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 »
See all our stories about skyscrapers »
Images are by Infinite 3D.