Amsterdam Iconic Pedestrian Bridge Entry by Yaohua Wang Architecture

In our last post, we published the winning designs of the [AC-CA]-hosted Amsterdam Iconic Pedestrian Bridge competition. Here's another proposal that didn't quite make the cut with the jurors, but we are happy to publish it. The author is Yaohua Wang, who – in past articles – managed to polarize the opinions like nobody else.

Let us know what you think in the comment section below!

Project Description from the Architect:

Amsterdam bridge V is aware of the simple functionality and sculpture of a bridge. Therefore, every part of this design contributes to the unique aesthetic as seen in the spiral steel structure. The design includes two independent pathways, specifically for pedestrians and bicyclists, that run parallel to each other through the bridge.  These pathways meet at the center of bridge, which behaves as the functional hub.  This central location provides a sheltered space in which a slower pace can be obtained contrary to the fast movement surrounding the bridge.  Inside this hub, the elegant form of this bridge can be appreciated.

F117 jet fighter plane is an very interesting example about the relationship between performance and aesthetics. The unique form of F117 jet fighter plane came directly from the need of hiding from radar wave, rather than from air dynamic aesthetics. The Amsterdam bridge also tries to achieve this relationship. In this case, the idea is the relationship between structural performance and aesthetic. The spiral structure provides an unique structural ability, allows the bridge to span across the river, also allowing the tectonics of several layers of spiral surfaces to interlock with each other. Meanwhile, these interlocked surfaces and structures wrap around the function hub, provide shelter with openings.

The solar and wind power plants are constantly feeding energy into the program for the bridge. They reduce the bridge’s carbon footprint, also, they create a noise in its profile line.

Project Details:

Architect: Yaohua Wang Architecture 
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands 
Structural Engineer: Organization Group 
Program: Pedestrian Bridge, Cafe, Office 
Size: 200 m² 
Note: Design proposal

Find more renderings and diagrams in the project gallery below.