A Bridge Without Mechanical Fasteners
Situated on the outskirts of Peitian Village, Fujian Province, China and designed to be constructed without the use of mechanical fasteners, “Wind and Rain Bridge” by Donn Holohan - The University of Hong Kong is a reciprocal interlocking timber structure which draws on the long tradition of wooden buildings native to the region. Each of the bridges’ 265 elements is unique and integral, assembled under the supervision of traditional carpenters, who number some of the few remaining exponents of their craft.
The bridge creates a community space, located in the heart of the village’s fertile farmland, where local people can socialize and exchange. Opening outward towards the village, the bridge negotiates the variable terrain and provides a place of respite from Peitian’s changeable climate. Supported by the Gallant Ho Experiential Learning Fund, and integrated within the University of Hong Kong’s introduction to architectural design course, The Peitian bridge project took 70 students to southern Fujian to aid in the construction of this community structure.
