In an effort to curb traffic congestion and connect the bustling Tamsui and Bali districts of Taipei, Taiwan, government officials launched an international architecture competition calling for a structure that would link the region’s highways. A panel of 15 committee members announced late last week that Zaha Hadid’s vision for a 3,018-foot, cable-stayed bridge over the Tamsui River had been selected as the winner. Much emphasis was placed on the firm’s single-mast approach, which, according to Hadid’s team, was the only of its kind in the competition. Their design will provide near-uninterrupted views of the Tamsui River, beloved by locals and tourists alike for its spectacular sunsets. When completed, the Danjiang Bridge will be the longest asymmetrical cable-stayed bridge in the world.

Hadid’s team went so far as to seek out solar studies in hopes of better understanding the exact position of the setting sun during Taipei’s spring, summer, and autumn months. “All aspects were driven by one goal: minimizing visual impact,” says Manuela Gatto, Danjiang Bridge project director for Zaha Hadid Architects. “The ultimate reason we chose a cable-stayed bridge over a suspension bridge was that the size of the cables would be significantly thinner, and therefore less visible and less likely to disrupt the sweeping views of the Tamsui, which are important to the people of Taipei.”

Hadid's design, developed in conjunction with award-winning bridge specialists Leonhardt, Andra & Partner and Sinotech Engineering Consultants, will not only connect major neighborhoods but make way for foot traffic while simultaneously extending the Danhai Light Rail Transportation System. “Increasing connectivity for all users was a priority,” Gatto explains. “Our goal was that cars, buses, light rail, bicycles, and pedestrians could use the bridge. This type of multipurpose bridge is a first in Taiwan, and we are very proud of that.”