The world’s best-designed bridge is in Taiwan, China has two in the Top 5

By: Little Traveler

On social media, we often see breathtaking architecture from abroad, but it turns out that nearby Taiwan also has a “world’s best-designed bridge.” Ranked among the top five by the UK-based online architecture media outlet Worldbuild365 is the “Donghe Steel Administration Center Footbridge,” designed in 2012 by renowned Taiwanese architect Chang Che-Fu, while China also has two bridges making it into the Top 5.

Inspired by the steel materials visible at the factory site, the bridge features intertwined steel curves that envelop the entire walkway connecting the administration building of the Donghe Steel Administration Center, creating a tunnel-like space. The stylish and minimalist design adds a refreshing touch to what would otherwise be a rather dull building. Unfortunately, this bridge is not open to the public. If you want to appreciate Chang Che-Fu’s works, you can also visit Kaohsiung MRT’s Central Park Station, the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, and Taipei MRT’s Da’an Forest Park Station—all designed by him.

In addition, another entry in the “World’s Five Best-Designed Bridges” is the Millau Viaduct in southern France, a masterpiece by British architect Norman Foster. Upon its completion in 2004, it broke the record for the tallest bridge piers in the world and became the tallest structure in France.

As for China, two bridges made the list: the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge in Hunan, China, designed by Israeli architect Haim Dotan, is the world’s highest and longest glass bridge. Meanwhile, the Lucky Knot pedestrian bridge in Changsha was designed by the Dutch firm NEXT Architects, drawing inspiration from traditional knot art.

The fifth bridge is the Tabiat Pedestrian Bridge in Tehran, Iran, designed by Iranian female architect Leila Araghian when she was just 26 years old.

Image sources: Chang Che-Fu Architecture Office, Liberty Times, Xinhua Net, Aga Khan Development Network, KKNews