Bridge Aesthetics: Guidelines for the New Millennium

The design of attractive bridges does not happen by chance, nor does it exclusively depend on some elusive “feel” that is only given to a chosen few. Constant conscious examination of existing bridges to find out why they are beautiful or ugly educates aesthetic awareness. Aesthetic guidelines can help to find a good shape or to check the shaping of bridges. Important aesthetic criteria are clear structural statements; good proportions; order; compatibility with the surroundings, including coloring; and, above all, simplicity.