The Beauty of Diversity in Unity (People’s) Bridge
There are no other nations like China. it is a nation with vast land and thousands of rich cultures, arts, and cultures. All of this diversity is connected by al common language and shared ideals. Such unity amidst diversity represent a wealth that no other nation possesses. Inspired by this, we see an opportunity to transform a vehicle bridge into a lush garden bridge, connecting
two parks separated by highway. This transformation will restore the space to a more human-centered environment for people.
The spirit of “From People, Of People, For People.”
Despite the rapid development in many cities a China, China does not need to modernize its design approach uniformly. Instead a building similar modern architecture, development in China should reflect its diversity and differentiate spatial designs. This approach will bring the spirit of the people’s diversity into future design.
Framing Vista
The landscape structure stretches over the bridge, creating an entrance gate from the bridge to the riverfront park. A different orientation is established towards the service building to emphasize its importance, as well as the significance of the entire park, rather than focusing solely on the bridge. The gate over the bridge will not only serve a functional purpose but also create a distinct entrance character to the complex.
Mix and Match / Plug and Play
The combination and placement of functions alongside the bridge are limitless, depending on what is needed. It is also possible to combine two functions into a single integrated volume. Each massing has a unique shape, specific characteristics, and functions that reflect the diverse needs of people. The flexibility in function and placement allows for future adjustments as needs evolve.
While oriented differently, the framing gate is well connected to the bridge at multiple levels. The varying heights offer a unique experience for people to enjoy both the bridge and the landscape structure. By linking the municipal bridge circulation to the vertical circulation access and attaching the canopy, the design creates more accessible circulation, allowing people to enjoy the elevated views.
The design employs a simple vertical circulation system, connecting multiple levels of activity that are attached to both the bridge and the framing gate. Vertical access points are placed at both ends, with stairs and lifts at each end to ensure a continuous loop of circulation for people, while maintaining safety. By doing so, the central area remains unobstructed, allowing for an uninterrupted view towards the park.
The 1,000 petals on the People Bridge are designed with a parametric and organic interpretation of the unique activities hosted on each petal. Their varying shapes, volumes, and elevations create distinct characteristics while maintaining a common datum. Although diverse, their repetitive arrangement along the bridge offers a unique journey for people as they explore the open spaces in between. This approach allows for an unlimited range of experiences and views along the People Bridge.
Life on People Petals
Different petals in various shapes, volumes, and levels can serve multiple functions. The People Bridge should be lively and engaging for all generations, from children to the elderly. It should not only be aesthetically pleasing from the Plug and Play but also functional for the neighborhood and the park.
The diversity represented by the unique petals along the bridge is unified by a canopy and railing that extend the horizontal lines of the existing bridge. The canopy covers all the functions and circulation needed along the bridge. This design creates a visual connection that stretches all the way to the top of the landscape structure, giving the impression that the landscape is a continuation of the existing bridge rather than a separate entity.
The bridge is not only for people; it also serves as a connector between two parks separated by the highway. Given the existing conditions, the concept is brilliant in that it envisions two separated parks being re-connected. This idea inspired us to give nature the space to reconnect, forming the backbone of the new organic bridge design.
