2012: Transforming the Bridge | 12211

Team: The Design Alliance Architects, Martin Powell

Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Overview: The Bridge District Lofts

This proposal for the Detroit- Superior Bridge takes advantage of the
unparalleled views of the surrounding context and creates a new live/work
neighborhood that links Downtown Cleveland, the industrial Flats and
Cleveland’s West side neighborhoods. This new district will become a
permanent and daily destination comprised of artist’s housing, small shops and
outdoor spaces that will establish a unique live/work/play community. The
neighborhood is organized by “streets” and “blocks” that are made up of housing
units, pedestrian walkways, plazas, squares and parks.

Artist’s lofts are cantilevered over the edge of the bridge structure providing
additional space within the footprint of the bridge for public walkways and “front
yards” to each unit. Loft units are conceived to be live/work studios. The work
studios can be oriented toward the public paths and large loft doors may be
opened for display and sale of goods during craft festivals. Lofts will have private
panoramic views of the city and beyond.

Public “squares” and parks are created along “Main Street” and extend beyond
the bridge structure creating open air experiences not found elsewhere in the
city. These public spaces support a variety of traditional neighborhood activities
as well as ones unique to this arts district.