Twist Bridge: A Ribbon of Innovation in Urban Design

Ge Wang’s pedestrian overpass redefines city connectivity and visual identity.

The Twist Bridge, completed in October 2021, is located on Fengshan Middle Road in Shunde District, Foshan City. Designed by Ge Wang, this pedestrian overpass draws its inspiration from the simple yet mysterious form of twisted paper. The bridge’s dynamic, ribbon-like structure not only creates a visually captivating silhouette but also reimagines how public infrastructure can enhance urban landscapes. Its design aims to provide both functional connectivity and a memorable visual experience for residents and visitors alike.

Spanning an inner length of 65.588 meters and an outer length of 71.191 meters, the bridge is 3 meters wide, offering ample space for pedestrians. The structure’s north section is supported by robust columns, with a deck thickness of approximately 450mm and an inclined plane structure of about 200mm. This engineering approach ensures high stability while keeping the bridge lightweight and cost-effective. The streamlined railing design further enhances the bridge’s airy, silk-like appearance, guiding pedestrians’ views toward the city and surrounding mountains.

The Twist Bridge serves as a vital link between Huagai Mountain and Fengling Mountain, two popular recreational areas separated by a highway with a 6.2-meter elevation difference. By connecting these spaces, the bridge expands the city’s mountain walking path network, making it easier for citizens and tourists to access nature, exercise, and explore. The multiple entrances and exits integrate seamlessly with nearby roads, commercial zones, and residential areas, transforming the bridge into a pedestrian transportation hub and enhancing the city’s walkability.

One of the bridge’s most distinctive features is its rotating fence, which acts as a thoughtful visual guide rather than a barrier. As pedestrians traverse the bridge, the unique enclosure frames panoramic views of the cityscape, while drivers passing underneath experience the evolving rhythm and form of the structure from different angles. This interplay of movement and perspective creates a dynamic relationship between the bridge, its users, and the urban environment.

The Twist Bridge has garnered international acclaim, earning the Silver A' Design Award in 2025 for its outstanding technical innovation and artistic expression. According to the award committee, the bridge exemplifies “remarkable excellence and introduces positive feelings, amazement, and wonder” through its creative form and expert execution. Ge Wang’s design not only addresses practical urban challenges but also elevates the everyday experience of city life through artful architecture.

By blending innovative engineering with poetic design, the Twist Bridge stands as a testament to the transformative power of thoughtful urban infrastructure. Its presence enriches the city’s identity, encourages active lifestyles, and fosters a deeper connection between people and their environment.