How the Undulating Bridge Shows us an Excellent Example of Architectural Impact

Article by Radenka Kolarov Undulating Bridge Hoofddorp project by LODEWIJK BALJON landscape architects, Hoofddorp, The Netherlands. In 2015 this project was awarded the Lamp Lighting Solutions Award because of a strong and unique synergy between interior design, landscaping, lighting and architecture. The landscape architects of Lodewijk Baljon have designed the bridge as a connection between the rail and bus station and the sustainable office park Beukenhorst in Hoofddorp. Another interesting fact is that this bridge has been built with a nod to the historical background of the city; later in this article you will get to know exactly how. Besides that, it provides a safe commuter experience and it offers the most pleasurable view for everyone.

For sure, this Undulating Bridge is a very interesting and outstanding solution; the confirmation of its uniqueness lies within the fact that the Lamp Lighting Solutions Awards team values its creativity, innovation and sustainability in lighting design. “The special mention is given for a project that provided an imaginative response to an otherwise functional footbridge crossing and in particular for the integration of a decorative, lit element into the balustrade, “ the Jury Evaluation explained. Unbreakable Connection Between the Bridge and its Environment The Undulating Bridge is near a railway station, close to Schiphol airport and Beukenhorst South park which has a strong potential to contribute to the sustainable development; one of the main issues of today. The avenue is very functional because of its central position, and spatially by its central verge that runs as a grassy dike with a double row of ash (Fraxinus) trees, which can be seen from the bridge and makes a great view for all the visitors. What would any bridge become with no water in its environment? It would still stay a bridge of course, but it is the wide channel that surrounds this bridge that makes it so enjoyable and pleasant. Historical Influence as a Basis of Bridge Design Poplar (Populus) trees that are planted along a dike called “Geniedijk” in this region are a part of the historic defense line (created in the late 19th century) around Amsterdam (a Unesco World Heritage site). On the one hand, it has served as an inspiration within the design. The main purpose of this bridge is to make a direct connection for pedestrians and cyclists between the train and bus station of Hoofddorp and the Office Park Beukenhorst. A very interesting flared shape enables two possible routes coming from the station. It is up to you to choose which route fits you the best. What makes this bridge even more interesting are two curved lines of the bridge in plan, which are strengthened by a vertical motion. The arc for cyclists is enhanced by a slight bulge that makes a riding more dynamic, while pedestrians are brought closer to the water through a hollow. The Undulating Bridge has a distinctive smooth and graceful shape that has attracted many people already. If it hasn’t yet made you think about visiting it, just wait to hear next what is so fascinating about Undulating Bridge. A Magical Sight – Inversion of the Image What will tickle your imagination is the very contrast that is inherent within the artistic expression of the bridge. The railing of the bridge is made of stainless steel, the symbol of something strong and safe, but with perforations through it, made of the pattern of tree branches, creating a remarkable piece of architectonic art. During the day the pattern of dots makes a graphic, black image in contrast to the silver-gray of the stainless steel. And when the evening is coming, LED lighting behind the punch holes create an inversion of the image – colorful, beautiful branches. With this combination of direct and indirect light that is integrated into the railing, the necessity of light fixtures on poles in this environment has been eliminated. The attractive show of the pattern of branches is visible only from the outer plate. The inner plate has a regular grid for the sake of creating a safe passage for everyone. Undulating Bridge is a wonderful project that in itself entwines the elements of new technologies (the use of LED lighting), wise choice of materials and artistic architectural expression, and the preservation of cultural heritage. It serves as one very functional and accessible bridge for all its users with an appealing ambience that surrounds it. What do you think, is Undulating Bridge the place you would like to visit immediately? Let us know in the comment section below! Go to comments

Full Project Credits For the Undulating Bridge Hoofddorp:

Project Name: Undulating Bridge Hoofddorp Location: Taurusavenue, Hoofddorp, the Netherlands Design Firm: LODEWIJK BALJON landscape architects Lighting Consultant: Industrielicht Client: City of Haarlemmermeer, the Netherlands Photographers: LODEWIJK BALJON landscape architects, Albert Brunsting Awards: Special mention for Undulating Bridge in Hoofddorp at Lamp Lighting Solutions Awards 2015, LODEWIJK BALJON landscape architects in Amsterdam Recommended Reading:

• Becoming an Urban Planner: A Guide to Careers in Planning and Urban Design by Michael Bayer
• Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design With Nature by Douglas Farrs

Article by Radenka Kolarov

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