Where do you see the borderline between the financially advantageous solution and between aesthetically , architecturally more complex ( and probably more expensive ) solution ?
The borderline is the client and it depends upon its budget . It is like acquiring any other object , one can buy a pleasing sports car or a simple utility car !
By how much do you think it is reasonable to increase the price of the bridge ( in %) due to its aesthetics , more complex solution and detailing ? What difference in that percentage shall be in case of a bridge in a city and in rural areas ?
It is a misconception to think that more money is required to create an aesthetically pleasing bridge . Least material helps but this requires more design effort to arrive at a design that is also visually pleasing . It is reasonable to spend more on materials like stainless steel and glass in urban areas which would not be appreciated in a rural setting .
Future inspection and maintenance and whole life cost should also be a major consideration .
There is no simple answer ; it is about affordability and also about the aesthetic perception of the community . What may be considered to be aesthetically pleasing in the Far East may not be considered pleasing in Europe .
What are your plans in making yourself and your knowledge available to young bridge engineers and next generations outside Arup community ?
I have been lucky to give talks and presentations in conferences / events organised by institutions such as ICE , IStructE , IABSE , IABMAS and universities which I hope younger engineers found useful .
What would you like to be remembered for as your greatest achievement or contribution to bridge engineering over your impressive career ?
As the concept designer for Queensferry Crossing in Scotland .
Thank you very much for your time .
1 / 2018