Length: 41m
Completion Date: 2023
Design Team: Tie Fan, Slavo Siska, Olivia Li, Remi Feng, Lu Li
Structure Innovation
Structuralism emphasizes the importance of wholeness and the connection between individuals. The aesthetics of structuralism revolve around patterns, symmetry, and order. Aesthetics play a vital role in bridge design, helping to provide each structure with a unique personality while enhancing its functional purpose. ATD strives to functionality, durability and safety, and the aesthetics of the structure.
In the design of the Huabei pedestrian bridge, ATD adopted a single-column umbrella steel structure to support the roof canopy. ATD team improved and innovated the umbrella structure by designing the single column as a triangular pyramidal form, Additionally, the canopy was designed as an inverted triangular cone structure. The design choice creates a slim connection with the column and gives the roof a visually light appearance. Compared with typical pedestrian bridge, ATD's design offers good permeability, allowing pedestrians to easily appreciate the lush greenery in the surrounding area.
The design of the single column brought to mind the cross columns used by Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe in 1929 for the design of the Barcelona Pavilion. The "X" column of Huabei pedestrian bridge is swift and fierce, conveying a sense of lightness and security. However, the manufacturer informed us that they are unable to produce the "X" column. Finally, we adopted special steel and molds for customization, and successfully implemented the design.
The canopy is set at a 5% slope. Along with this slope, rainwater on the roof can be collected to the planters along the bridge to irrigate the plants. Compared with the traditional vertical baseboard, the glass baseboard on both sides of the main bridge, slightly tilt outward. Stepping onto the bridge deck enhances the sense of interaction with the Bougainvillea on both sides, making it feel within reach and providing a broader vision.
The wood aluminum panel is used for the canopy ceiling. Both sides of the bridge utilise compressed bamboo handrail to achieve a durable effect while providing a warm visual sense. At night falls, the steps strip, canopy strip and floor lights illuminate, reflecting off the wood-colored canopy and casting a warm and soft glow along the road, illuminating the way for pedestrians and vehicles.
