How to Read Bridges

This accessible book is a visual guide to understanding and identifying architectural styles and engineering techniques of all types of bridges, from ancient Roman arch bridges and nineteenth-century truss bridges prevalent in the United States, to the latest high-design cantilever and suspension bridges of the moment. It explores the elegant and varied ways in which engineers and architects have designed ever longer yet less heavy bridges, devising new methods of construction along the way. 

Illustrated throughout with detailed line drawings and cross sections, including dramatic images of the world’s iconic bridges, this charming guide still fits in a pocket or purse—perfect for anyone who likes to explore the dynamic bridges and built environment on foot.Edward Denison is a writer and photographer whose work includes authoritative books on design and architecture. Ian Stewart is an engineer at Davies Maguire + Whitby, a structural engineering design practice. He holds a BEng in civil engineering and a PhD in structural dynamics.