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.
“The redevelopment of the historic area of Lilleakerbyen in west Oslo by Mustad Eiendom is a model of ecologically minded city making for the long-term. Circularity, urban identity and accessibility are key to Mustad’s strategy and so we are excited to contribute to this with the design of three new bridges at the centre of the masterplan that both draw from and reinforce these ambitions.”
Ben Addy, founding director of Moxon.
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.
“Developing three bridges in proximity has given us a chance to push our pragmatic approach to design. The form, structure and materials of each suit their specific location, span and function while shared articulation and details tie them together as members of a single family.”
Ezra Groskin, director of Moxon.
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.”
Ian Firth, Consultant at COWI.
The bridges designed by Moxon and COWI stand out for their thoughtful integration into the landscape and their harmonious relationship both with each other and with the historical surroundings. Demonstrating a deep respect for the delicate river environment, these bridges showcase elegant design and meticulous detailing, creating a framework for new nature experiences along the river.
The bridges in Lilleakerbyen will be developed over time and in different phases, depending on the status of the surrounding zoning plans in each location. This week, Mustad Eiendom is meeting with the teams behind the winning proposals to discuss the outcome of the competition. They are currently planning the next steps for the various bridges, aiming to determine the optimal timing and sequence for further project development.
