Heatherwick studio was invited to design a pedestrian bridge in a network of waterways in the Shanghai district of Jiading. Drawing inspiration from the traditional Chinese Moon Bridge and its sinuous curvature, the design combines the elegant form and modern day accessibility requirement with a surprising twist. Hydraulically powered, the stepped sections that make up the bridge can be lowered to a levelled crossing that meanders in plan for wheelchairs and bicycles, or raised up in steps to a mounting hump for passing boats underneath.   

Photos courtesy of Heatherwick studio.