Winner 2025

Award for
the elegant and unique combination of materials in a landmark network arch bridge.

Project description

Spanning the Oder River between Germany and Poland, this elegant network arch bridge reuses existing piers and introduces shaped transitions that blend structure and form. It is the first known railway bridge to incorporate carbon-fibre-reinforced elements for structural performance. Light, efficient, and beautifully detailed, the bridge is a landmark in cross-border infrastructure and engineering precision.

Judge’s comments

An elegant and efficiently delivered network arch bridge that reflects a thoughtful and disciplined design process. Reusing existing piers and introducing carbon-fibre tension members, the structure achieves lightness, clarity, and beautifully resolved proportions. It’s a seamless integration of architecture and engineering, made possible through careful detailing and confident material choices.

Project overview

Structural Designer

  • schlaich bergermann partner (sbp), Schüßler-​Plan

Client Name

  • DB InfraGO AG, Infrastrukturprojekte Ost

Location

  • Küstrin-Kietz, Germany

Architect

  • Knight Architects

Principal Contractor

  • Sächsische Bau

Key Contractors

  • Carbon hanger manufacturer: Carbo-Link

    Checking engineer: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Karsten Geißler

    Experimental carbon hanger testing: Empa (Dübendorf)

    Geotechnical engineer: GuD Geotechnik, Aero Dynamik Consult

    Geotechnical independent check: Dr.-Ing. Lutz Vogt

Year Submitted

  • 2025

Key attributes

  • Process