The Architecture of Bridge Design

Book excerpt: The role of the designer and architect in the planning and design of bridges is undergoing radical change, with architects now being appointed before the engineer on a growing number of projects. The relationship between the two roles is therefore on a different level than either will have previously experienced. This book details the process of design whereby the inspiration for a bridge is developed into the final reality of the built solution. It looks at the functions of a bridge, defining purpose of place and context, the spirit of creativity and the reasoned progression of an idea. It also explores the exploitation of materials technology and construction innovation, and the tension between lightness and mass and between sculpture and scale. The architecture of bridge design takes the form of a number of submissions from leading architects and engineers, each setting out their views on bridge design - present and future. As well as providing vital source material for those tendering for bridge projects in which they will be closely involved in the design process, it also provides a state-of-the-art statement on modern bridge design form the viewpoint of client, architect and engineer.