King Abdul Aziz Flyover

Structural Designer

Buro Happold; Bernard / Wiecon (Concept)

Client Name

Arriyadh Development Authority

Location

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

The King Abdul Aziz Flyover supports a new highway interchange in the centre of Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Designed to blend harmoniously with its modern surroundings, this elegant viaduct has a steel arch spanning 83m as its main feature, with a post-tensioned voided slab for the remainder length. The single tied arch has a multi-facetted cross-section, giving it good stability and a very delicate appearance. Much of the design is constrained by the existing infrastructure and services, but the team still manages to produce a wonderful bridge.

Judge's comment:
A delightfully simple scheme – demonstrating how an elegant, slender structure can be created within an awkward and constrained site. It is an excellent solution, with fine details throughout, perfectly matched to this modern city.