The municipality of Lillestrøm will be enriched by a new pedestrian bridge designed by LINK Arkitektur. Lillestrøm is going through a large development with several ongoing and future projects. Skjærvabuen bridge will be "the missing link" in the city’s network of pedestrian and bicycle paths, connecting recreational areas along the river and complementing the existing hiking trail along the river park. The pedestrian and bicycle bridge will play an important role of facilitating green mobility in the area as a landmark that humbly positions itself onto the surrounding landscape.

The wooden construction is inspired by the local historical industry through both construction technique and materiality, as the city has long traditions for woodworking. The glulam trusses act as the bridge's main structure, as well as creating a dynamic architectural expression as the central design element. The red-toned interior of the bridge creates a compelling contrast to the wooden trusses, creating a clear and defined path for pedestrians and cyclists.

Connecting the existing and planned infrastructure with a single gesture, the bridge's soft arches are harmonious with nature’s organic shapes. It settles carefully into the natural areas in a way that protects the vulnerable nature from trampling and traffic, while enabling users of the bridge to come close to treetops and getting views of the rich wetlands.

In the dark, the bridge is illuminated so that the construction and its sculptural form stand out clearly, which gives recognizability and identity to the place and ensures safe traffic. The lighting is directed inwards towards the structure and the walkway to illuminate the bridge only where it is needed to minimize light pollution.

The project builds a bridge between past, present, and future by drawing inspiration from the history of the area, using contemporary construction techniques and materials, including glulam beams and solid wood, and is placed carefully into the landscape to protect the site's natural diversity for a sustainable future.

Team:

LINK Arkitektur:
Andreas Nordström, lead architect
Villads Hannibal Højberg, urban planner
Selma Zosel, architect
Erle Stenberg, landscape architect
Johan Sverrison, landscape architect

Strandfors AS:
Nils Forsén, Dr-Ing Consultant engineer

Multiconsult:
Ruth Marie Bottheim, ligthing design
Sondre Andrè Ski, environment counselor
Randi Osen, environment counselor

Johs Holt:
Luke Justin Zaghini, Consultant engineer

Inplace Visual:
Tony Wong, visualizations