The leading architectural firm MVRDV has recently won a competition for the Dawn Bridge in Shanghai. Selected by the Zhujiajiao Municipality, the Dawn Bridge is the winning entry for the competition as it responds to the constraint of building the shortest bridge with an accommodating slope, and yet it is pedestrian-friendly.
Acting as a new landmark for the city, the Dawn Bridge will be located next to an existing iconic bridge in Shanghai, known as the Fangsheng Bridge.
With a width of 24 meters, the dawn bridge provides a vibrant pedestrian zone with a seating area overlooking the Dianpu river and the historic Zhujiajiao Old Town. Spanning 80 meters, the bridge is expected to be complete by 2019.
© MVRDV
Not only does the Dawn Bridge create a new connection for both pedestrians and cars between the modern housing developments but also offers a social hub. The observation deck and landings give a chance to pedestrians to enjoy the view of the Dianpu River and the historic old town while participating in social activities.
© MVRDV
Additionally, they mimic the natural landscape of the city so that the bridge smoothly blends in with its surrounding context. For instance, they have used the same reddish wood material commonly found in the surrounding modern houses in the area.
Additionally, local trees are planted on top of the flat deck which blends in with the landscape and are inspired by the ones in the famous Fangsheng Bridge. The design reduces air pollution and noise coming from the road.
© MVRDV
According to an official statement from MVRDV, “The vertical alignment of Dawn Bridge defines a sense of lightness and elegance, and our aim was to provide a graceful low curve above the river that also blends with the landscape.”
“Beyond blending, we wanted to create a bridge that invites public life over and around it and that is accessible to all people whether on foot or on wheels,” added Wenchian Shi, Partner at MVRDV.
Related: MVRDV House | MVRDV
