The Flying Spine
Zhang Jian Bang Green Wedge, Pudong, Shanghai, China
FIRST PRIZE. International Competition
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Program: Pedestrian and bike walkway
Year: 2016-
Status: Phase I completed. Phases II-VI under construction.
Area: 5.5 km long
Client: Shanghai Pudong Properties Group Co, Ltd.
Architecture: Iñaki Ábalos, Renata Sentkiewicz (Ábalos+Sentkiewicz)
Structure: Xavier Aguiló (BAC ECG)
Local Partner: Linxue Li (Atelier L+)
The competition called for submission to develop a zig-zagging route to explore the large park under construction in Zhang Jia Bang, passing over and under the intervening infrastructure and creating an unobstructed route for walkers, bicyclists, joggers, etc. We chose a fishbone structure whose elements never require double curvature and salso result in a recognizable shape, inspiring its name: The Flying Spine. Spanning a total length of 5.5 kilometres, elevated along approximately half of its length, this route also includes pavilions for taking a rest or exercising,observation decks, areas offering shelter from the sun and rain, and washrooms, all built with the same construction system as the bridge itself and ending up at a final pavilion for rest and contemplation at the park’s large scenic and recreational lake.
