falcon flight bridge
dubai, united arab emirates
In collaboration with Buckland & Taylor bridge designers, MacDonald Architects entered into a design competition to create the Falcon Flight Bridge in Dubai.
To create a lasting urban icon, MacDonald Architects set out to develop a structure that could emphasize the Arab’s rich heritage, culture, and traditions transitioning into the 21st century. Focusing on the region and cultural customs the design team focused on the Falcon (UAE’s National bird) as the symbolic image at the start of the vision.
Falcon in Latin translates to Falco, which means the shape of the bird’s wings. Emblematically, a Falcon has visionary power, superiority, and freedom. This design reflects Arabian tradition dating back generations.
The bridge’s Main Tower design is a direct translation to the bird’s arched wingspan symbolically delivering distinction. Designed to mimic how a Falcon’s wings are used to efficiently and powerfully fly, the bridge’s design will stand proud, presiding over the region, inspiring its boating community, and its adjacent urban dwellers.
The bridge's night lighting scheme allows the bridge to glow at night without having a visible light source that can be spotted by viewers. It becomes a symbol at night reinforced by its reflection on the water of the Arabian Canal.