Thomas Randall-Page Designs the Cody Dock Rolling Bridge
Amy Duong — February 28, 2023 — Art & Design
References: thomasrandallpage & dezeen
British designer Thomas Randall-Page installed a new footbridge in London dubbed the Cody Dock Rolling Bridge as a part of the masterplan by local studio PUP Architects. It is made from weathering steel and oak and is able to rotate using manual levers in order to allow boats to pass through. The overarching project is to revive the former Victorian dock on the River Lea.
Randall-Page speaks about the project to Dezeen, noting that "Early industrial infrastructure inspired me to design a balanced system, like a canal lock or a draw bridge. These systems are counterweighted or use gravity to their advantage rather than external power sources. Utilising weathering steel and steam-bent oak in their raw untreated state, the aesthetic is more influenced by the area's maritime and shipbuilding past, traces of which are dotted throughout the area."
Image Credit: Randall-Page
Randall-Page speaks about the project to Dezeen, noting that "Early industrial infrastructure inspired me to design a balanced system, like a canal lock or a draw bridge. These systems are counterweighted or use gravity to their advantage rather than external power sources. Utilising weathering steel and steam-bent oak in their raw untreated state, the aesthetic is more influenced by the area's maritime and shipbuilding past, traces of which are dotted throughout the area."
Image Credit: Randall-Page
Trend Themes
1. Weathering Steel Architecture - Incorporating weathering steel as a building material for structures such as bridges and buildings presents an opportunity for designers and architects to create visually unique and sustainable designs.
2. Manual Control Mechanisms - Designing structures that can be controlled manually, such as bridges and locks, can provide an opportunity to save energy and promote sustainable living.
3. Reviving Industrial Infrastructure - Reimagining the use of former industrial sites can present opportunities for innovative architectural and structural designs that celebrate the local history and cultural identity while promoting sustainable communities.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture - The use of weathering steel and manual control mechanisms can be incorporated into architectural designs to create visually stunning and sustainable buildings and structures.
2. Engineering - Creating structures that are primarily controlled manually can provide new opportunities for engineers to innovate and optimize the mechanical systems involved in their design.
3. Urban Planning - Reviving industrial sites in urban areas can provide urban planners an opportunity to incorporate historic and cultural elements into their planning while designing for sustainable communities.
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