This is the Living Bridge in the Limerick Republic of Ireland. It was created by London-based architects Wilkinson Eyre.
The bridge, which was finished in November 2007, crosses the river Shannon in five spans. The deck was built so that its width fluctuates along the length of the whole structure to allow for the accommodation of resting places and public art displays.
"The design grows from the site, an organic response to a natural environment," says Dezeen. "A curvaceous deck sweeps across the Shannon and its embankments in five spans between strategically located support locations. The impression is both of a single crossing but also of a series of bridges jumping from pier to pier, like stepping-stones."
Bridging Gaps with Art & Relaxation
Ireland's "Living Bridge"
Trend Themes
1. Living Bridge - Opportunity for integrating art and relaxation spaces into bridge design to enhance public experience and engagement.
2. Fluctuating Width - Potential for creating flexible bridge decks that adjust in width to accommodate various features such as rest areas and art installations.
3. Organic Design - Innovation opportunity for bridges to be designed as an organic response to the natural environment, enhancing aesthetics and sustainability.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - Architectural firms can explore incorporating art, relaxation spaces, and flexible designs in their bridge projects to create unique and engaging structures.
2. Public Art - Opportunity for public art organizations to collaborate with architects and bridge designers to enhance the visual experience and storytelling potential of bridges.
3. Urban Planning - Urban planners can consider integrating innovative bridge designs that harmoniously blend with the natural surroundings, offering new opportunities for public interaction and leisure activities.