Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Timber Truss Structure Enhanced By Anti-Parabolic Cables Over Natural Valley

Authors:
Kaikang Shen, Yuchi Wang, Yijia Wang, Yaran Zhang
Timber Truss Structure Enhanced By Anti-Parabolic Cables Over Natural Valley

Project in-detail

A timber truss structure, supported by anti-parabolic cables and designed to mimic the elegant form of a butterfly, seamlessly connects two park areas while enhancing the landscape experience for pedestrians.
5 key facts about this project
01
Timber truss design mimics the delicate form of a butterfly in flight.
02
Anti-parabolic cables enhance structural stability while maintaining visual lightness.
03
Integrated LED lighting highlights the bridge's contours at night.
04
Curved handrails provide both safety and aesthetic continuity.
05
Gentle gradient ensures accessibility for all users.
The "Butterfly" Bridge is a pedestrian structure designed within a park landscape, serving as a connector between various zones. Its name derives from its organic shape, which emulates the graceful form of a butterfly in flight. This architectural design not only facilitates movement but also enhances the user experience by providing an inviting aesthetic presence in a natural setting.

Structural integrity and materiality are fundamental to the bridge's design. Comprising a three-dimensional truss system, the bridge utilizes timber as the primary material, capitalizing on its strength, sustainability, and aesthetic qualities. The timber beams are arranged alongside anti-parabolic steel inhaul cables that provide additional support and stability. Metal connectors are integrated into the junctions to ensure durability and structural integrity.

Unique Design Approaches

The Butterfly Bridge employs a parametric design methodology, which allowed for precise adjustments in response to structural requirements and environmental context. This approach not only reinforces the bridge's stability but also results in a visual form that resonates with the landscapes surrounding it. The curvature of the bridge mimics natural forms, promoting an engaging visual experience for pedestrians.

Another distinctive feature is the careful consideration of lighting. Integrated LED elements provide illumination, enhancing safety and creating visual interest during evening hours. This feature transforms the bridge into a landmark, sufficiently visible and engaging at night. The handrail system also reflects a focus on user safety while maintaining the aesthetic narrative of the overall design.

Functionality and User Experience

Functionality is paramount in the bridge's design, which emphasizes accessibility through a gentle gradient suitable for diverse user groups. In addition to providing essential connectivity within the park, the bridge invites social interactions and promotes community engagement, making it an attractive location for gatherings and activities.

The incorporation of sustainable materials underscores the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility. By using renewable timber, the design minimizes its ecological footprint while contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.

For those interested in learning more about the "Butterfly" Bridge, further insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas can be explored within the detailed project presentation. Understanding these elements provides a comprehensive perspective on the design's functional and aesthetic intentions.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy