A sleek, modern bridge with a wooden design extends over a multi-lane highway. A blurred car drives below, surrounded by greenery and distant buildings under a clear sky.
Mannheim B38 Bridge

Mannheim B38 Bridge

Mannheim, Germany

2020

Client   MWSP Mannheim
The proposed bridge over the B38 in Mannheim creates a new connection between Franklin-Mitte to the north and Columbus-Quartier to the south. While it is an innovative sustainable structure it's expression is modest, reading more as an extension of the landscape path network than an element of infrastructure or engineering. The primary emphasis has been placed on park and bridge users who will experience a well crafted path linking the two sites.
Two people walk along a curved, elevated pedestrian bridge surrounded by trees. The bridge has tall railings and a wooden design. The scene is serene, with greenery in the background and soft lighting.
A modern architectural structure with a curving, golden facade extends over a multi-lane road with a car in motion. The scene is set amidst trees and greenery under a light, misty sky.

Motorists passing below will be presented with a slender, sculptural timber form with only a hint of the path it cradles. In order to acheive the ambitious 50m+ highway span, the granite and timber path is cradled between two curving timber glulam beams along the main and back spans. The top surfaces of the outward leaning beams gradually move up and down along their lengths in response to structural demand. 

Illustration of a modern bridge design with a sleek support beam. The structure features two angled ramps with metal railings and wood-paneled sides, connecting centrally. The bridge is elevated on a concrete base.
Architectural illustration showing a modern bridge design with a V-shaped support. The bridge deck, with wood-like panels, has figures of people standing and walking on top, indicating scale and functionality.
A modern pedestrian bridge with sleek metal railings spans over a lush, green area with flowers. Two people are walking along the bridge, surrounded by trees under a clear sky.
A curved, elevated pedestrian walkway with sleek metal railings winds through a landscaped area with trees and bushes, under a bright sky. The smooth path offers a scenic view of the surrounding greenery.

Similarly, the outer beam is larger as it carries more load. The result is a pair of elegantly sculpted forms visible from all directions and especially dynamic when seen along their lengths. To bridge users the beams also provide a welcome sense of enclosure, shielding pedestrians and cyclists from the car traffic below while still offering views towards the horizon. At the north end the path floats lightly above the park, atop a landscaped earth ramp. As soon as the bridge takes off, it begins gradually bending to the south west in order to cross perpendicular to the highway. To the south of highway B38 the path curve tightens to wind users down to street level quickly and comfortably while reducing impact on the existing street layout and parking capacity. The gently unfurling spiral will act as a gateway, encouraging a range of views as users wind their way up and over the main span.

Elevated walkway with people cycling and walking, surrounded by trees on a sunny day. The path is supported by sleek railings and blends with the natural landscape. Road underneath and grassy areas in the foreground.
Partner
Structural engineer
Ingenieurbüro Miebach

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