The background issue which is addressed in this paper relates to the current realities with regard to bridge aesthetics, engineering and architecture, and the changing balance of these three elements of bridge design and construction projects in Canada. The objective of the paper is to set out with reference to the Canadian experience, a review of past practice and current trends, leading to an assessment of the future direction of the importance of bridge aesthetics. This is considered in balance with practical bridge engineering design and construction, innovative bridge architecture, and reasonable construction costs. The methodology involves looking back at the history of bridge engineering in Canada with a particular emphasis on bridge aesthetics, and recent trends which have affected Canadian bridge engineering and architecture, including inventive bridge engineering and architectural work in Europe. A number of outstanding Canadian bridges are examined with consideration of their aesthetic appeal and value including the Angus L. Macdonald Bridge in Nova Scotia, the Jacques Cartier Bridge in Montreal, the Thousand Islands Bridge in Ontario, the Esplanade Riel Bridge in Winnipeg, the Broadway Bridge in Saskatoon, the High Level Bridge in Edmonton, and the Kicking Horse Canyon Bridge in British Columbia, amongst others, touching on several of the Provinces and Territories. Issues discussed include: • Is there necessarily a compromise between aesthetics and function? • Are there additional costs associated with outstanding aesthetics? • Where are signature bridges most appropriate? • What is the value to society of a bridge with pleasing aesthetics? • Should bridges blend with the environment? • What can we learn from recent European experience? • What is the relationship between the Design-Build method, and bridge aesthetics? • What is the effect of design competitions? • How have computers affected modern bridges? The conclusions of the paper relate to all of these topics. The paper sets out some thoughts as to the overall relative importance of bridge aesthetics, engineering and architecture. Consideration is given to how these elements have worked together in the Canadian experience to date, and to how they may be affected by trends in the future.
