A modern and an old bridge span across a calm river. The modern bridge has a sleek, curved design, while the older bridge features an intricate lattice structure. The sky is clear, and the reflective water enhances the scenic view.

River Drava Bridge

Maribor, Slovenia

2008

Client European Capital of Culture 2012

Infrastructure · Foot & Cycle

The proposed pedestrian and cycle bridge, connecting the Lent and Tabor banks of the River Drava in Maribor, is intended as a subtle companion to the existing iconic Glavni Most, the main crossing. Its design is thus minimalistic, light and with soft undulations that seem to mimic the water of the river below it. Structurally, the bridge is a stressed ribbon, where the deck rests directly on a series of tendon cables that span from bank to bank. The catenaries described by these cables maintain an average gradient of no more than 1:20, allowing for bicycle and pedestrian use.

A detailed architectural progression of a bridge design shown from multiple angles, culminating in a complete structure, architecture by MOXON Architects.

A digital rendering of a serene river scene with an arched bridge spanning the water. The sky is clear, and buildings line the riverbanks. Reflections are visible on the calm water's surface.

The body of the bridge is almost entirely concrete, with parapets made from satin polished stainless steel. These parapets are extremely thin, and placed closely together so that, from distant views, they seem to dissolve and become invisible, while from oblique angles it takes on the form of a shimmering ribbon.

Its lighting by night is also minimal: illuminating the steel ribbons on either side of the deck and providing way-marking for its users.