ICE photo competition

Sunset over progress, Tuen Mun - Chek Lap Kok Link, Hong Kong

Pak Lam Lui's description of the photo

“Sunset over Progress” shows a peaceful moment at a busy construction site near Hong Kong Airport.

The photo was taken at the end of a normal workday. The beautiful sunset shines behind the dark shapes of heavy machines, showing the teamwork between people and engineering.

This site is part of major infrastructure work that supports travel, trade, and the local economy. Even during quiet moments, the machines remind us how civil engineers help build a better future.

This photo shows how infrastructure helps connect people and places, and how progress happens every day.

The Tyne bridges, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Jim Millar's description of the photo

These bridges link the communities of Newcastle and Gateshead.

Every day thousands of people use these crossings, on foot, by bicycle, wheelchairs, cars, trains, metro and buses for work, pleasure and entertainment.

Sharp angles and perspectives, London Bridge Station, UK

Bogdan Schiteanu's description of the photo

Only if you pace up or down the platforms do you manage to see the full shape of the Shard.

At that point, the convergence of its geometric shape and the perpsective created by the platforms roofs and railtracks result in a dazzling urban rendition of the city, in a place where thousands of commuters or visitors are coming and going every single day.

Heritage, Waimate, New Zealand

Mali Mehl's description of the photo

“Heritage” depicts the Empress Flour Mill silos in Waimate, New Zealand.

In the urban and contemporary environment of Waimate the silos are a monolithic monument to the heritage and history of the town and country.

Decorated with tender and emotional murals, the silos remind passersbys about the people that have driven change and growth and the people they did it for.

RA257, South Surra Project, Kuwait

Haytham Mohamed's description of the photo

This photo tells a story of connection in the making.

At the heart of a growing city, new roads and bridges rise—not just as concrete and steel, but as lifelines that bring people closer together.

You can see homes, mosques, and daily life surrounding the construction, reminding us that infrastructure isn’t just about traffic flow—it’s about communities.

It’s about getting to school, to work, to a loved one’s house faster and safer.

This evolving landscape shows how thoughtful design and development can shape not just a city, but the everyday lives of the people who call it home.

Urban pulse: the fusion of light trails and skyscrapers, Japan

Chung Kan Huang's description of the photo

Skyscrapers symbolize a city's prosperity and quality of life, serving as economic hubs and community centers that shape social interactions.

Light trails represent the transportation infrastructure that facilitates daily life in a modern metropolis.

The interplay of light and shadow in the photo captures the city's vitality and dynamism, reminding us that while developing infrastructure, we must consider its impact on people's lives, ensuring urban progress enhances overall well-being.

Minimalistic engineering, The Émosson Dam - Switzerland

Bogdan Schiteanu's description of the photo

With its 180m majestic height, this dam not only its two hydropower plants provides 3% of the Swiss electricity supply but it also creates a wonderful converging point for visitors and tourists from all over the world marvelling at the amazing scenery of the Alps as well as the technical excellence of the engineers who made this project possible.

Connection and continuity: Dublin's modern flow, Dublin, Ireland

Ian Mullarkey's description of the photo

This image of Dublin at twilight showcases the Samuel Beckett Bridge gracefully spanning the River Liffey, its sleek lines illuminated against the backdrop of modern office buildings and the soft glow of urban lights.

The bridge, with its harp-like design, is not only a feat of contemporary engineering but also a vital artery connecting the north and south sides of the city.

The surrounding infrastructure – offices, walkways, and riverside spaces – reflects the dynamic interaction between people, work, and public space.

Together, they form a visual narrative of how thoughtfully designed infrastructure fosters community, mobility, and a sense of place in the heart of Dublin.

Clifton Suspension Bridge, Clifton, Bristol, UK

Nick Draisey's description of the photo

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is more than just a way across the Avon Gorge, it is a symbol of Bristol’s engineering legacy.

Designed by Isambard Kingdom Brunel, it was completed in 1864 after his death by the Institution of Civil Engineers as a tribute to his life’s work.

As a civil engineering student at the University of Bristol, I see it almost daily, and it never fails to inspire me.

Knowing that such an incredible piece of infrastucture was built in the 19th Century, fills both the University community and wider city with both pride and motivation.

Timeless connections: Baker Street Station, Baker Street Underground Station, London

Martin Scragg's description of the photo

My photograph captures the iconic Baker Street Underground Station, where the distinctive arched brick ceiling and period design elements converge in a timeless embrace.

Through selective colourisation, the crimson hues of the rounded signs emerge, creating a striking visual symphony.

This image is a testament to how infrastructure, like the London Underground, serves as the lifeblood of urban connectivity.

It celebrates the seamless fusion of historical architecture with the pulse of modern city life, facilitating daily journeys and interactions.

The station is a key hub, fostering connections and enhancing the community in London.

Cracks in the flow, Izmir, Turkey

Bengisu Ateş's description of the photo

Infrastructure can significantly impact communities not only positively, but also negatively when poorly executed.

This photo captures a moment where a water pipe was accidentally damaged during excavation, immediately disrupting urban life.

It also highlights the importance of combining theoretical and practical knowledge in civil engineering to foresee potential complications.

Any failure in a city’s infrastructure is instantly noticed by the people it serves and disrupts social life.

As engineers, our duty is not only to build structures but also to ensure sustainability and protect society.

Proper planning and execution are essential for infrastructure to truly support a community’s well-being.

Luís I Bridge - from above, Porto, Portugal

Jola Brown's description of the photo

Spanning the Douro River, the bridge unites the city’s two halves, supporting daily movement and shared experiences.

Its layered design accommodates both pedestrians and transit, symbolising accessibility and inclusivity.

Beyond function, it stands as a gathering point, a backdrop to local life, and a testament to engineering that fosters unity.

The bridge embodies how thoughtful infrastructure can shape and sustain the rhythm of a community.