Iconic pedestrian bridge in Amsterdam
Amsterdam - Netherlands
Studio Gianluca Centurani - Edilizia pubblica e dei servizi
Quarzite Ceniza Extreme Active e Quarzite Avana Extreme Active 75x37,5 cm
Taxos Extreme Active 150x75 cm
Silver Ground Active 60x30 cm : 1500 mq (ca.)
The design is that of a pulsing vein, which delivers culture from the museum out to the city walls and from there to the entire world. The form is organic and coloured red, and the volume expands and contracts at the café and bicycle shed, which makes the structure lively and dynamic, and generates a sensation of a continuous flow of culture coming from the Hermitage.
The bridge has pedestrian and cycle lanes, two different solutions of mooring to the bank: the solution is asymmetrical, and is bifurcated on the bank opposite the museum, each side of which is intended for a different use. The minimum inclination between the two banks enables the bridge to be used by all types of user without the need for elevators. Following the directives governing river traffic on the Amstel, the longitudinal profile allows any type of boat to pass under it, with a minimum height of 2.6 m over a length of 5 m.
The free and irregular form is realised with fibre-reinforced polymer panels. This is a composite material with a fibre-loaded polymer matrix. The fibres impart strength and rigidity to the composite. The matrix binds the fibres into a rigid form. Furthermore, the fibres protect against abrasion and chemical reactions with the environment.
The panels are anchored to a second, aluminium structure, connected to the first one with steel blocks. Sustainability was a priority in choosing the materials: indeed, composite materials ensure the non-discerning of energy, while the C02 emissions are comparable to those of other materials, like steel and aluminium.
The use of alternative energies was handled with great care. Piezoelectric panels have been installed in the floor of the bridge and generate light when walked over. There is also a hydroelectric system in the supporting pylon, which uses a turbine to generate electricity from the flow of water through it.
