The first two bridges in the series, known as the Culture Bridges, designed by Moxon Architects and COWI, lie at the heart of the new masterplan, midway between two waterfalls, where the riverbanks are steep and rich in vegetation. The crossings will connect the district’s main cultural hubs, expanding both sides of the Lysaker River. The bridges, unique in their material and style, were commended by the jury as subtle and harmonious kinship.
Visualisation of Culture Bridges, Lilleakerbyen, Oslo by Moxon Architects.
The northernmost Culture Bridge is a straight timber span of 40m, elevated above the riverbank with landings at varying heights, to give a crossing experience similar to a treetop walkway, encouraging users to pause and enjoy the river views. The externally exposed structural timber edge beams will follow the arcing profile of the path, that transitions from sloped on the west bank to level on the east. The use of timber as the load-bearing structure Is designed to reduce weight, foundation requirements, and environmental impact.
Visualisation of Culture Bridges, Lilleakerbyen, Oslo by Moxon Architects.
The southernmost Culture Bridge, nestled deep within the river valley, reads as an extension of the natural landscape in materiality and form. Serving as the main axis from Møllertorget to Sportsplassen, the structure, despite its modest span, is designed to be robust, capable of withstanding heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic and seasonal floods. The primary structure is an assembly of regionally sourced stone blocks strung together to form shallow arching beams, offering a contemporary design in a timeless material. The jury praised the proposal for its thoughtful integration into the landscape.
The Cycle Bridge follows a dynamic S-shaped trajectory, providing an accessible gradient to connect two banks that are over 4m different in height. The meandering path provides cyclists and pedestrians with shifting perspectives of the river, encouraging users to engage with the natural surroundings. The jury commented on the elegant design and meticulous attention to detail.
Visualisation of Culture Bridges, Lilleakerbyen, Oslo by Moxon Architects.
“This project provides a great opportunity to create a special family of bridges, each unique and different, and each with its own structural challenges responding to the specific constraints of their setting. Analysis of these constraints led to the selection of three individual structural typologies using appropriate local materials - steel, timber and prestressed stone - to produce low-carbon sustainable solutions that are well suited to the beautiful setting.”
