2012: Transforming the Bridge | 12149

Awarad: Honorable Mention

Team: Crossboundaries Architects, Binke Lenhardt, Hao Dong, Diego Caro Serrano, Anne-Charlotte Wiklander, Cristina Portoles, Filip Galuszka

Location: Beijing, China

Overview: The project is divided into 4 different stages, organized by different levels of priority. Furthermore the first level will fulfil all the basic requirements whereas the further 3 stages will accomodate
for a more developed design.

STAGE A (BASIC REQUIREMENTS)

ACCESS POINTS AND BIKE LINE
This part looks at the creation of a continuous line that connects all 3 levels (top, middle and ground level). It also organizes the traffic between pedestrians and bicycles efficiently. The connections are divided into two different categories; Horizontal and Vertical. The “horizontal” referrers to the bike ramps and the main pedestrian access whereas the “vertical” referrers to the elevator and stair cores, that connect certain points of the bridge along the different levels. To emphasise the continuity, the bike line will be painted blue, keeping the current floor and accommodating it for the new use of the bridge.

STAGE B (GREEN ADDITIONS)

GREEN LAYER (OASIS)
At this stage the green areas from the ground floor will be extended up to the intermediate level to create a warmer environment. The landscape and space along the river will be improved by introducing different treatments of vegetation and wood.

STAGE C (PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT)

INTRODUCING ACTIVITIES
During this stage a program will be applied. These activities can vary and should relate to the City’s demands. To allow for this adjustable program our proposal provides a simple system consisting of boxes mounted to a steel structure that can easily be dismantled. That in turn offers a very flexible and diverse space. The suggested program has been located in relation to the various spacious qualities that the bridge provide :
-Enclosed spaces (east/west pools): technical boxes that can be used for specific activities i.e. recording studios, projections, special storage etc.
-West concourse: openable boxes with both indoor and outdoor space where art/learning workshops could be held.
-East concourse: market and food area with small moveable boxes where stall keepers can store and display their products.
-Central span: this space is kept clear to allow for special events

STAGE D (THE FINAL TOUCH)

INTERACTION WITH THE UPPER STREET
The last stage looks at the connections to the upper (car) level, by the creation of various elements and perforations. This allows for a visual connection between the different levels, but also provides more natural light to the new spaces below.