The design of the Millennium Bridge in London was the result of an international competition won by engineers Arup, architects Foster and Partners, and sculptor Anthony Caro. Since the bridge over the Thames was required to be as light as possible, a suspension-type was called for, but since a low profile was also mandated, the bridge could not have any supporting masts. Instead, the eight suspension cables—four per side—are at the level of the deck. The bridge is more than 1,000 feet long (the longest unsupported span is 480 feet). Initial swaying, caused by the motion of walking people, was solved by installing dampers. The Millennium Bridge is purposeful rather than beautiful, but the real payoff, other than being able to conveniently reach the Tate Modern from the city, is a stirring view of Christopher Wren's dome of St. Paul's.


Millennium Bridge, London. Photograph by Witold Rybczynski.


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