Santiago Calatrava is known for his elegant bridges that combine structure with a sculpture-esque touch.  Yet, could his iconic style be changing?  His latest design for Calgary, Canada is a red and white tubular structure, an aesthetic quite unlike of his earlier works.  The new footbridge, slated for completion in 2010, will span the Bow River and aid approximately 5,000 people a day commuting in and out of the city on foot or on bike.

More about the bridge after the break

The bright red bridge will span 130 meters and its helix design lacks the soaring masts, steel cables and asymmetrical design typical of a Calatrava project.  Since the bridge is for pedestrians and cyclists, separate paths will be incorporated so each can enjoy his journey over the bridge comfortably.  The bridge will also be covered in glass allowing Canadians to use the bridge throughout the year.

The bridge’s tubular form is a successful design solution as it could not have piers in the riverbed or vertical elements. “Seemingly simplistic at first glance, the Peace Bridge is a highly technical bridge,” Calatrava stated.