A serene landscape featuring a tall, modern bridge over a calm river. The bridge is supported by two towers with cables, and lush green trees cover the hillside. The sky is lightly clouded, casting soft reflections on the water.
Suchdol Bridge

Suchdol Bridge

Prague, Czech Republic

2025

Client   ŘSD Czech Directorate of Roads and Motorways
The Suchdol bridge is a key structure in the completion of the Prague ring road system, bringing the final section of motorway across the Vltava River valley. This dramatic site requires a structure that sits within the landscape in a considered manner that respects the protected natural and community areas.
A serene river view at sunset with a bridge spanning across the water. The sky is tinged with pink and orange hues. Trees line the riverbanks, and gentle ripples appear on the waters surface. The bridge is silhouetted against the sky.

Minimising the number of locations the bridge touches the river valley, and maintaining a low-level structure above the road deck led us to this award winning extradosed solution. The key elements of this structure have been refined and simplified visually; a single, multi-celled concrete box supports a slim deck that tapers to a thin, visually lightweight deck edge describing a clean line across the valley. Two slender piers carry the deck structure, splitting in elevation towards the top to align with the masts that support a single plane of cables in the middle of the bridge.

Cross-sectional architectural diagram of a bridge with two roadways. It shows vehicles on the bridge and two tunnels beneath, each containing people. The structures supports and details are outlined in a technical style.
Architectural cross-section of a bridge showcasing multiple levels. The upper level has cars, while the lower section appears to be pedestrian pathways. Structural elements and support columns are visible in the design.

A pair of enclosed walkways are mounted beneath the deck cantilevers providing a route for pedestrians and cyclists separated completely from the carriageway above. The shaped boomerang supports and high-quality stainless-steel mesh infill create a defined volume that provides a safe and peaceful route across the river valley, seating located at mid-span and the piers encourages users to pause and enjoy the spectacular views.

A majestic bridge extends across a lush forest valley under a soft, pastel sky. Two large pylons support the structure, while sunlight casts gentle shadows. Mist hangs low over the dense treetops, adding a mystical quality to the landscape.
Suchdol Bridge Long Section
Suchdol Bridge Plans

The abutments seamlessly integrate accessible routes for pedestrians and cyclists and maintenance access to the abutment. The abutments are constructed from reinforced earth and gabion walls where possible to reduce the amount of concrete used. Planting of the earth slopes and use of local stone in the gabions allow the abutments to sit comfortably within the natural landscape. The bridge inspection gantries are housed in the abutments keeping them protected and concealed from view when not in use.

Tall, modern tower structure with a triangular peak and horizontal platform near the top, set against a dark background.
A tall, abstract architectural model with a central pillar and angular projections on top, set against a dark background. The structure has a geometric, futuristic design with sharp lines and a minimalist appearance.
Partner
Structural engineer
COWI

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