DNA-inspired bridge wins Singapore Institute Architectural award

Cox Architecture with Arup and Architects 61 received two honourable mentions at the 11th Singapore Institute of Architects Architectural Design Awards held in May.

The first is for the structurally pioneering design of the pedestrian bridge known as The Helix Bridge at the northeast corner of Marina Bay.

The second is for the environmentally innovative promenade and visitors centre at the opposite end of the bay.

Cox Architecture founder, Philip Cox said, “The Helix Bridge is the world’s only double helix bridge and was inspired by the Watson and Crick double helix spiral for DNA – the very structure of life. The bridge is a metaphor for the biological structure of all things and is the centrepiece of this sustainable urban environment. It illustrates the combination of solar protection as well as integrated structure, lighting and art works.”

The Helix Bridge provides a six metre – wide pedestrian connection over the head of the Singapore River, vital to the life of the city. This 280 metre-long foot bridge is constructed using efficient and long lasting materials, in this case high strength duplex stainless steel.