An International Arrival: The Collaborative Design of an Iconic Airport Footbridge

The expansion of the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport has provided an opportunity to Cultivate Debate among an international group of designers collaboratively designing an iconic new footbridge. This bridge has been designed to provide effective circulation, allow passengers views of the site and geography beyond, and to act as a strong visual symbol of the tranformation of the facility and region. The unique location of the bridge as well as the aesthetic and structure of the linked buildings have influenced the design and proposed construction method. This progressive design-build project encouraged the formation of an international team of designers and builders to work closely with the owners throughout the process. The design process has been productive and collaborative, and yet has also included healthy debates about how best to integrate diverse interests to result in a bridge that can fulfill (and, when possible, exceed) all requirements. In addition to site and construction demands, these requirements have included: stringent dynamic criteria; integration into the architectural language of the overall project; emphasis on passenger comfort; the need to stay cost effective; and the desire for a lightweight, iconic, efficient design.

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