Designed for the [AMSTERDAM] Iconic Pedestrian Bridge Competition, the project offers more than just a possibility of crossing the Amstel river. Branching into several pedestrian trajectories, the bridge prioritizes on being an extension of the public space in front of the Hermitage Museum. In order to prolong the experience of being on water, the bridge comprises several routes that create a public promenade with small docking areas for the local houseboats. The iconic nature of the project is seen by the design team (Mariana Popescu, Mihaela Radescu, Ovidiu Stanciu, Dimitrie Stefanescu) as an emergent feature resulting from both the geometry of the bridge as well as the socially enabled functional potential.
Description of the Architects:
We see Amsterdam as a city of differences at a small scale which emphasize its local realm. Houseboats represent a specific way of living which could better highlight the local and embed a fruitful cultural echange between the visitors and Amsterdam’s way of living.
Sustainability is a rather over-used word in relation with materials, energy harvesting, etc.. Our approach focuses on social sustainability, by which we refer to an intensification of the interactions between locals and tourists. The bridge acts as a vibrant cultural environment from which both public and private actors can benefit.