Sited in the natural context of Lura Park, our design for a new pedestrian and cycling bridge is a modern and contextual addition to the bucolic landscape of the region. Spanning over the Lura Creek Valley, the bridge connects the areas of Manera and Rovellasca while also enabling links with the wider regional pedestrian and cycling networks.

Inspired by a self-supporting system first studied by Leonardo in the 15th century, the design consists of simple rectilinear timber beams assembled without the use of ties. Once completed, the compressive loads of the bridge itself lock together the longitudinal and cross beams in a scissor-like fashion, creating an efficient self-supporting system that permanently secures the structure in place. In our case, the Leonardesque Bridge concept is revisited in a contemporary way through the use of glulam timber, allowing longer spans and enhanced durability over time. This technique also minimises the number of metal joineries with the aim of reducing unsustainable materials, effectively reducing the building’s carbon footprint and extending the building’s life span.

Our choices of material celebrate the structure’s eventual weathering, deliberately minimising the frequency of operational maintenance whilst allowing the bridge to slowly develop a textured coloration and patina that will help it further blend into the context of Lura Park.

 

DATA
Client: Consorzio Parco del Lura
Use: Pedestrian and cycling footbridge
Budget: 260,000 Euro
Structure: Glulam timber
Status: Honorable Mention, International Design Competition

 

CREDITS
Architect: LUCA POIAN FORMS with Archest Srl
Engineer: SOLUXN Ltd
Images: Liraat Visuals