PROVIDER:
MAIN CONTRACTOR:
STEEL BUILDER:
ARCHITECT:
STUDY BUREAU:
BUILDING TIME:
PHOTOGRAPHER:
The Bow Bridge forms the new pedestrian connection across the Ebstroom River in Hellevoetsluis. Because the municipality was in a great hurry to restore the connection, the project was given an exceptionally short lead time. Nevertheless, we managed to realize a design that fits in both functionally and aesthetically with the historical context.
A modern interpretation of a classic
The desire was for a bridge that recalls the old silhouette, but without the visual mass of the former wooden arch. In fact, the old bridge was a heavy, obstructive presence in the public space. Together with the contractor, a solution was sought that would be more transparent, slender and durable.
Steel as the key to elegance and durability
The design combines warm wood with hot-dip galvanized steel, a preservation system that provides excellent corrosion resistance as well as a low-maintenance life span. The former wooden main girders have been replaced by a tubular steel profile, which allows for a freer view of the surroundings and a significantly slimmer construction.
The edge beam of the deck is also made of steel and bears down on the arch through a series of elegant pendulum bars. By using more pendulum bars than in the original design, arch and deck work together structurally, making both elements leaner. All connections between arch, foundation and pendulum bars are carefully articulated with hinge details.
Hot-dip galvanized steel : the right choice for a low-maintenance bridge.
Galvanizing gives the bridge a fresh, light appearance that patinas naturally over the years. The preservation system also eliminates the need for lengthy closures for maintenance-a major asset in this busy area. The bridge was prefabricated in four sections and brought in by special transport. It was completely installed in one evening and one night-a feat of logistical efficiency.
