How Does the Golden Gate Bridge Stay So Red-Orange?
The Golden Gate Bridge, an iconic structure of San Francisco, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and aesthetics. However, behind its striking red-orange appearance lies a blend of practicality and aesthetic appeal that has stood the test of time. This article will explore how this unique color choice persists, the initial intentions behind it, and its significance in the San Francisco landscape.
The Golden Gate Bridge: A Brief Introduction
Contrary to common misconceptions, the Golden Gate Bridge is not simply called the San Francisco Bridge. Instead, it stands as the defining structure of the city, linking San Francisco and Marin Counties across the Golden Gate Strait. This bridge, known for its distinctive red-orange color, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.
The Color Behind the Legend: International Orange
One of the stories surrounding the Golden Gate Bridge's color selection is that the vermilion hue, known as "International Orange," would provide better visibility in the frequent maritime fog that blankets the Golden Gate Strait. However, the primary rationale is rooted in both practicality and aesthetics. The supervising architect, Irving Morrow, recognized that this color would complement the natural palette of the surrounding landscape, which features dull greens, greys, blues, and tans.
The Origins of the Color
The bridge's original color was not predetermined, with the possibility of it being silver gray or black. However, the steel arrived from the mill pre-painted with an anti-corrosion reddish-orange primer, which coincidentally suited both the design needs and Morrow's aesthetic preferences. This fortuitous choice not only made the bridge more visually appealing but also enhanced its situational visibility under the city's foggy conditions.
Exploring Other Bridges in San Francisco
San Francisco is home to several other notable bridges, each with its own distinct color. For instance, the San Francisco Bay Bridge, connecting San Francisco to Oakland, features a metallic grey west span and a fresh white east span. Additionally, there are several highway and railroad bridges across Mission Bay, showcasing a range of colors including black, green, and concrete gray.
Golden Gate Bridge vs. Other Bridges
The unique color of the Golden Gate Bridge sets it apart from its counterparts, with the "International Orange" serving as a defining characteristic. This decision was not only about aesthetics but also about functionality. During sunset, the surrounding area often glows red-orange, creating an enchanting visual harmony with the bridge.
Why is It Called the Golden Gate Bridge if It's Red?
The Golden Gate Bridge is named after the Golden Gate, a strait it spans. This strait's name originates from John C. Frémont in 1846, who called it "Chrysopylae," meaning "Golden Gate." The name alludes to the expected wealth in trade with the Orient, a term that did not refer to actual gold discovered in California until shortly after or to the color of the bridge itself.
The Specificity of "International Orange"
While most people refer to the bridge's color as "red," its official name is "International Orange." This particular shade is deeper and redder than the typical version, serving both aesthetic and visibility purposes. Its design, enhanced by its local weather conditions, ensures that the bridge remains a vibrant and prominent landmark even under foggy conditions.
The Golden Gate Bridge's enduring red-orange hue is a testament to the seamless blend of necessity and beauty that has defined the bridge since its inception. Its color has not only made it a symbol of San Francisco but also ensured its continued relevance and admiration from generations of visitors and locals alike.