Czech design studio Ehl & Koumar Architekti finishes a sculptural footbridge located in Litomyšl, the Czech Republic. It is defined by a construction of steel and concrete materials that open up to cantilevered viewpoints on both sides. It is a pedestrian bridge that goes across a must motorway -- the welded steel forms the structure and the exposed concrete makes up the pillars.
Ehl & Koumar Architekti architect Tomas Koumar tells Dezeen "The heavy shapes of concrete pillars contrast to the lightweight steel structure and we like to use the exposed concrete for its almost tactile qualities. We wanted to give the new footbridge the human scale, have its deck as low as possible, and protect pedestrians from the busy I/35 highway. Therefore, we designed the horizontal part as a spatial 3D Vierendeel girder."
Welded Steel Cantilevered Footbridges
Ehl & KKoumar Architekti Designs a Sculptural Footbridge
Trend Themes
1. Sculptural Footbridge Designs - Innovative architects are focusing on creating footbridges that blend steel and concrete for cantilevered viewpoints.
2. Contrasting Material Combinations - Designers are exploring the juxtaposition of heavy concrete pillars with lightweight steel structures in infrastructure projects.
3. Spatial 3D Girder Integration - The integration of spatial 3D Vierendeel girders in footbridge design is redefining structural efficiency and pedestrian safety.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture & Design - The architecture and design industry is embracing innovative approaches to bridge construction, incorporating contrasting materials for aesthetic and functional purposes.
2. Engineering & Infrastructure - In the engineering and infrastructure sector, opportunities lie in optimizing the structural integrity and visual appeal of footbridges through unique material combinations and design elements.
3. Construction & Urban Development - The construction and urban development industry can benefit from adopting advanced techniques like spatial 3D girder integration to enhance the safety and aesthetics of pedestrian pathways.